Nationally recognized for her contributions to choral music, Dr. Iris S. Levine has built a career that bridges artistic excellence, academic leadership, and community engagement. She is the founder and artistic director of VOX Femina Los Angeles, one of the nation’s premier women’s choruses, and a force in advancing the visibility of women composers and the power of inclusive musical expression.
Since founding VOX Femina in 1997, Dr. Levine has led the ensemble through more than 300 performances across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Under her direction, VOX quickly established itself as a vital part of Los Angeles’s musical landscape following an early debut with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles. Known for its eclectic repertoire and commitment to commissioning new works—more than 50 to date—the group has collaborated with major institutions including the Colburn Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the LA Master Chorale. Notable performances include Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 at the Valley Performing Arts Center and Mahler’s Eighth Symphony under the baton of Gustavo Dudamel at Disney Hall.
Dr. Levine’s academic career has been equally distinguished. A longtime faculty member at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, she rose through key leadership positions including Professor of Music, Chair of the Department of Music, Dean of the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences, and Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. Throughout her tenure, she conducted the Kellogg Chamber Singers and taught courses in conducting and music education. Dr. Levine earned her Doctorate in Choral Music from the University of Southern California, studying under Rod Eichenberger and James Vail, and holds a Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from Temple University, where she worked with Alan Harler.
An active leader within the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), Dr. Levine has served in numerous state, regional, and national roles, particularly advocating for women’s choruses. Her work extends into publishing, where she edits the Iris S. Levine Treble Choral Series with Pavane Publishing and has contributed chapters to volumes including Conducting Women’s Choirs: Strategies for Success and Choral Reflections: Insights from American Choral Conductor-Teachers.
Throughout her career, Dr. Levine has been a sought-after clinician and adjudicator at choral festivals across the country, recognized not only for her technical expertise but also for her ability to build ensembles that reflect a deep commitment to artistry, authenticity, and community.
VOX Femina’s growth under Dr. Levine’s leadership has been marked by notable achievements, including recognition as District Nonprofit of the Year by then-State Senator Holly Mitchell in 2016, winning the women’s category at the Golden State Choral Trophy in 2017, and earning the San Francisco Classical Voice Audience Choice Award for Best Choral Performance in the LA area for the 2019–2020 season. In 2024, VOX was honored with the Margaret Hillis Award for Artistic and Organizational Achievement by Chorus America and made its debut at Carnegie Hall with National Concerts.
Upcoming Event: VOX Femina Los Angeles Open Rehearsal
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When: Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 7:30 PM
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Where: Congregation Kol Ami, 1200 N. La Brea Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90038
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Tickets: Free with RSVP
To RSVP, please visit www.voxfemina.org/current-season
For more information, visit voxfemina.org or call (310) 922-0025.
