Tiffany Warren ’11
Choir Director at Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels
Music, Vocal Performance Major
What have you been doing since graduating from LMU?
Since graduation, I earned my Master’s degree in Choral Conducting at California State University Los Angeles, and I have served as the founder and director of The Seraphim Vocal Ensemble, an early music group specializing in sacred repertoire from antiquity to the Baroque era. Our highlights include a featured performance and custom score arrangement for the television series American Horror Stories. I currently serve as Choir Director for English liturgies at Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Downtown Los Angeles. I am the first woman and the first woman of color in this position.
Why did you decide to major in music?
My father was a jazz musician who played 3 instruments. I was introduced to the piano at an early age. My musical development continued at St. Timothy Catholic School in West Los Angeles, where I discovered my voice. Driven by an innate calling to study music on a deeper level, I continued my study of music through high school and then college. I did not choose music; music chose me.
How did your time at LMU prepare you for your future?
My time at LMU was deeply meaningful, and I credit it with laying a solid foundation for my growth as a classical musician. The training and instruction I received were true to a Jesuit education. I often recall a line shared by my professors: 'You do not need to know everything, but what you do know, know it well.' Through LMU, I developed the technique to sing challenging and beautiful arias that were previously beyond my reach. It also prepared me for my work in Catholic music ministry, where I currently serve the San Pedro Region of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles on a music and liturgy board alongside His Excellency, Auxiliary Bishop Marc Trudeau.
What activities were you involved with during your time at LMU?
I was involved with the LMU choir, the gamelan instrumental group, and in my senior year I participated in the Baccalaureate Mass and had the honor of dressing the altar.
As the choir director at Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels, what does your day usually look like?
My day at the Cathedral consists of planning music for Sunday liturgy, special Masses, and for Priesthood and Diaconate Ordination. It is a deep dive into the readings and of course the gospel, to determine which music reflects best and is liturgically appropriate. I make sure to incorporate all styles from Renaissance to Spirituals, which enhances the spiritual experience. I lead rehearsals once per week with a 33-member choir of volunteer singers and professional section leaders.
What was your favorite part about LMU Music?
Dr. Karl Snider was my absolute favorite. He was my voice teacher, and he helped me find my classical voice. He gave me exactly what I went to LMU for, a beautiful classical voice. He also guided me through challenging times and situations. He was a true mentor who cared for his students. He passed away a couple of years ago, but I know he's watching over all of us who adored him.
I also loved the high caliber of knowledge I received in every aspect of music.
Do you have any advice for current and future music students?
Make it a point to know what you want to do with the beautiful training you receive before you graduate. Be creative with how and where you can use your talents and education. Be humble, stay humble because ego will get you nowhere fast. Stay centered in Christ. I will be praying for you and I'm here if you need career guidance. Go Lions!