Tyler Demaree is a graduate assistant in choral conducting at Western Illinois University, where he is pursuing his Master’s of Music in Choral Conducting. He also serves as Interim Choir Director at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, where he directs all curricular choirs. Since assuming his current position, Tyler has focused on growing the choirs at Knox College while emphasizing vocal technique skills, the performance of quality literature, and building a collaborative community. Prior to his current roles, Mr. Demaree was the Director of District Choirs & Theatre at Galesburg High School where he taught four choral ensembles, piano, guitar, music theory, and directed two large theatre productions each school year. He earned his Bachelor’s of Music in Music Education degree from Western Illinois University (‘20).

As a professional choral singer, Mr. Demaree is an inaugural and current vocalist of withonevoice, a Chicago-based professional vocal ensemble specializing in diverse repertoire and innovative vocal techniques. He has also been a vocalist with Nova Singers, a semi-professional ensemble based in Galesburg and served on Nova Singers’ board of directors.

Tyler is also an active guest clinician, recently conducting the Lincoln Trail Junior High Choir Festival and has guided the Galesburg High School Treble Singers to perform at the 2023 Illinois Music Education Conference.

With a passion for 21st-century choral and vocal pedagogy, Tyler has earned Estill Figure Proficiency certification in Estill Voice Training, integrating these skills into his teaching of choral ensembles, musical theatre, and solo voice. He has also directed several musical productions, including Big Fish, Working, SpongeBob the Musical, and Rock of Ages.

An active member of the choral and music education community, Mr. Demaree has served as the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District 2 high school vocal jazz representative and is an active member of ILMEA and the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA).