Kelli Falls, Director

Kelli Falls currently teaches vocal music at Parker Middle School in Howell. She has been teaching for 28 1/2 years. Kelli is an active member in MSVMA (Michigan School Vocal Music Association). She has been a director and clinician for ensembles/choirs across the state. She has directed two MSVMA State Honors Choirs, and toured overseas in Europe with multiple choirs. In 2017, MSVMA and state vocal music educators from across the state awarded Kelli “Teacher of the Year”. Kelli’s current MSVMA position is Adjudication Scheduler and Trainer. Kelli’s undergraduate vocal music education degree is from Western Michigan University and her master's conducting degree is from Michigan State University. Locally, Kelli is the proud director of the Livingston County Chorale. Kelli also has directed, choreographed, and produced over 45 musicals. Kelli’s love is music and her passion is teaching and conducting. It is her belief that every singer has the potential to excel to greatness. She believes that in order to educate, you must first inspire. Kelli loves life and is very grateful for the support of her wonderful husband, family and friends. She is honored to be a part of this year’s presentation of Handel’s Messiah.

Rick Helderop, Organist

Rick's involvement and ministry with church music began at age 13 directing choirs and playing the organ at his home church. Sparked by a life long interest in music, Rick earned his bachelor's degree in Music Education from Grand Valley State University and his Master's degree in Organ Performance from the University of Michigan, studying under the internationally-acclaimed Robert Glasgow. Rick has also pursued additional doctoral course work. Rick's ministry has not only led him to direct choirs to also use his talent as a church and concert organist in the United States, Canada, and Russia. As the CEO of Covenant Organs, LLC, Rick is also an accomplished organ builder, taking instruments and rebuilding them to work with his client's venues. Rich had the opportunity to install the first pipe organ in a church in Russia since the 1917 revolution.