Dr. Patricia Ramirez Hacker

Artistic Director

Dr. Patricia Ramirez Hacker, was appointed as Artistic Director of the Huntsville Master Chorale in 2012. In 2010, Dr. Hacker moved to Huntsville to serve as Director of Music at First Presbyterian Church where she directs and administrates a comprehensive music program. Since then, she has gained recognition not only as conductor, but also as a clinician, adjudicator, vocal coach, and singer.

Dr. Hacker has served in the faculties of Oakwood University, Alabama A&M University, and the University of Mobile. While at the University of Southern Mississippi, she received full assistantship and scholarships in voice and choral conducting. During her tenure at USM, she taught voice and conducted operas for the outreach program. She also served as conductor and assistant conductor of the prestigious Southern Chorale, University Singers, Chamber Singers, and Gulf Coast Civic Chorale. Furthermore, she had the opportunity to conduct the Southeastern Louisiana University Concert Choir and served as assistant conductor for the University Singers and Women’s Ensemble.

As a singer, she participated in many operas for Southeastern Opera, Southern Opera, Mississippi Opera, and Ars Nova. At USM she won the William T. Gower concerto competition and performed with USM Symphony Orchestra. During her undergraduate and graduate studies, she won first places at NATS Vocal competitions at state and regional level. She has performed numerous solo and lecture recitals promoting Spanish vocal literature and mezzo soprano opera roles.

A native of Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Patricia obtained recognition representing her country in several international vocal competitions. Dr. Hacker obtained her Doctorate in Choral Conducting. In addition, she has a master’s degree in Choral Conducting and a master’s degree in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Southern Mississippi. She also received her Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performances and Pedagogy from Southeastern Louisiana University. Patricia is married to Bruce Hacker, and has two loving dogs Yoda and Riley.