Jillian Burgam

Jillian Burgam is a Lecturer of Choral Music at Eastern Michigan University where she conducts the EMU Voices, EMU Campus Choir, and teaches music education courses. Prior to her work at EMU, Jillian taught for 10 years in public middle schools and high schools all over the country. Working in Wickenburg, AZ, Helena, MT, and most recently at Fordson High School in Dearborn, MI, Jillian’s choirs have earned superior ratings at solo, ensemble, and choral festivals alike, and have had singers qualify for regional, state, and all-state honors choirs. Most importantly, her work in public education has focused on Culturally Responsive Teaching and engaging English Language Learners. Among her fellow educators, she has focused on advocating on behalf of new teachers, developing a Mentorship program at Wickenburg High School and a New Teacher Orientation at Fordson High School.

An advocate for community choirs throughout Metro Detroit, Jillian is the Artistic Director of the Detroit Women’s Chorus (DWC), a barrier-free treble choir that welcomes singers of all ability levels. In the past two years, DWC has appeared on PBS: Detroit Performs, collaborated with Detroit artists Emily Rose, Audra Kubat, and Emily Rogers, sang and marched at Take Back the Night Ann Arbor, and performed the National Anthem at a Detroit Tigers game. Along with her work with DWC, Jillian served as the assistant conductor of the Detroit Concert Choir for four years, serving a diverse group of singers ages 22 to 76.

Jillian sings professionally with Crossroads and Beyond while singing at various churches throughout the Metro Detroit area. She has appeared as a guest performer with Christ Church Grosse Pointe, the UMS Choral Union, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. Jillian has also worked with professional choirs around the country, singing with the Phoenix Chorale, Solis Camerata, the Philadelphia Symphonic Choir, and the Spoleto Festival USA Chorus.

Jillian completed her graduate degree in Choral Conducting from Westminster Choir College (2020) and Bachelor of Music degree in Choral Music Education and Spanish Education from Western Michigan University (2013). She is an active member of the American Choral Directors Association, Chorus America, and is the State Choral Festival Supervisor for the Michigan School Vocal Music Association.

Educational CV

Jillian Burgam is a Part-Time Lecturer in Choral Music at Eastern Michigan University. Find her full education CV here.