Each month the Arts Commission recognizes individuals or groups who have made a significant contribution to the artistic and cultural life of the Santa Clarita Valley.  This month the Commission was very proud to recognize Sherry Klahs for her years of service as a Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Santa Clarita Master Chorale.

The Santa Clarita Master Chorale, which was established in 1998, was founded to promote fine choral music through annual concerts and educational enrichment programs.  Since the beginning Sherry has played a vital role in the leadership and growth of the group.  The Master Chorale has become one of the premiere arts and cultural organizations in the valley, and this was achieved under her guidance and due to the commitment and passion that Sherry has shown throughout the 19 seasons that the Chorale has performed.

During her time with the Master Chorale, Sherry also served as a key member of the arts community.  She was active in the Arts Alliance, which became 661Arts, and was the representative from 661Arts to the Arts Advisory Committee.  She also served as the Chair of the Arts Advisory Committee, and in this role she was instrumental in leading the effort to establish the Arts Commission in 2009.  Her dedication to the arts in Santa Clarita, and her impact on the community has been profound.

Recently Sherry stepped down as the Executive Director of the Master Chorale, and the Commission wanted to make sure that she knew how much they appreciate her leadership of the Chorale and how grateful they are for her role in making the arts a vital part of the Santa Clarita Valley.  The Commission is sure the Master Chorale will miss her guidance, and of course they recognized her for that accomplishment, but they also wanted to let her know that her leadership within the arts community is appreciated and how grateful they are for her being a key player in building the arts in the community.