Brett Karlin

"The chorus’ stellar singing was a tribute to director Brett Karlin whose tenure with the ensemble has been transformational."

- South Florida Classical Review, War Requiem with New World Symphony & Master Chorale of South Florida, March 2025

Praised for performances that are “eloquent and deeply felt” and for leading “another milestone” in South Florida’s choral landscape (South Florida Classical Review), Brett Karlin has established himself as a conductor of remarkable versatility, artistry and vision. Under his leadership, the Master Chorale of South Florida has been hailed for presenting “one of the most satisfying classical music events…in a decade of South Florida concert going” (Palm Beach ArtsPaper). Now in his 13th season as Artistic Director and Conductor, Karlin has led the ensemble through a period of significant artistic growth and increased regional recognition. His tenure has been marked by critically acclaimed performances, ambitious repertoire spanning five centuries, collaborations with leading artistic partners, and a commitment to enriching the cultural life of South Florida through choral music.

Karlin’s work has also received national recognition. As Assistant Conductor for Seraphic Fire, he contributed to the Grammy-nominated A Seraphic Fire Christmas and served as Assistant Chorus Master and singer for the ensemble’s recording of Brahms’ Ein deutsches Requiem (London version), which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Choral Performance.

In addition to his work on the podium, Karlin has prepared choruses for many of today’s leading conductors, including Stéphane Denève, Xian Zhang, Giancarlo Guerrero, Anja Bihlmaier and Gerard Schwarz, among many others. His work in this capacity has spanned major symphonic, operatic and choral repertoire, collaborating with distinguished orchestras, soloists and artistic institutions.

Beyond his leadership with the Master Chorale, Karlin has served as Artistic Director of The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay, Chorus Master for Florida Grand Opera and Music Director of the Broward Symphony Orchestra. He has guest conducted a wide variety of professional, academic and community ensembles, including The Symphonia, Lynn Philharmonia and Seraphic Fire.

Whether conducting a major choral-orchestral work, preparing singers for internationally acclaimed guest conductors, or introducing young audiences to the joy of live music, Karlin is committed to performances that inspire, challenge and connect communities through music.