Meet Our Artistic Director

Tim Accurso is originally from Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania, and moved to Santa Barbara in the fall of 2018. Driven by a lifelong passion for singing, piano, and collaboration, Tim found his musical home in choir, musical theater, and opera throughout his youth and college years. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Vocal and Piano Performance from Susquehanna University and a Master’s degree in Vocal Coaching and Accompanying from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he studied with Dr. Julie Jordan Gunn.

After completing his graduate studies, Tim pursued a professional career in the opera industry, joining the prestigious Resident Artist Program at Utah Opera in Salt Lake City. His extensive professional background also includes serving on the music staff for prominent companies such as Opera Saratoga, the Seagle Music Colony, and Palm Beach Opera.

Tim is thrilled to serve as the Artistic Director for the Santa Barbara Gay Men’s Chorus. For Tim, returning to choral leadership has been a true joy and a powerful reminder of the unique magic born from group singing. He passionately believes that music has the power to build community, bridge divides, and spread joy.

Tim currently resides in Santa Barbara with his husband, Ediben, and their two dogs, Axel and Tanner. While music occupies most of his life, he also enjoys exploring the vibrant Santa Barbara food and wine scene and watching scary movies.