Markell D. Pipkins
DIRECTOR

DIRECTING FISHERS PREPARATORY CHOIR AND BEGINNING LEVEL CHOIR

Markell D. Pipkins is an accomplished choral conductor, music educator, and performer with a specialization in Black Gospel music. His recent engagements include leading a clinic with the Indianapolis Children’s Choir for their preparation of Robert Ray’s “Gospel Mass” and preparing the Butler University treble chorus for Gustav Holst’s “The Planets.” Markell also recently conducted a multi-generational community chorus in Vivaldi’s “Gloria.”

Entering his seventh year as a staff accompanist with the Indianapolis Children’s Choir, Markell previously served as an assistant to Ruth Dwyer. He is passionate about vocal education and frequently serves as Vocal Director for musical productions at Footlite Theaters. Markell is currently the Associate Director of Music and principal organist at Witherspoon Presbyterian Church, having served in various church music staff roles over the past decade.

Currently the Director of Choral Activity and Co-Orchestra Director at HL Harshman Middle School, Markell is dedicated to urban education, building upon his experience working with programs such as the Hancock County Children’s Choir, North Central High School, Lawrence Central High School, and Eastwood Middle School.

A versatile bass-baritone, Markell recently performed the role of Sarastro in Butler University’s production of Mozart’s “Die Zauberflöte” and was the baritone soloist in the Butler University Chorale’s performance of Margaret Bonds’ “Credo.”

Markell holds a BM in Choral/General Music Education PK-12 and an MM in Choral Conducting from Butler University, where he studied under Dr. Eric Stark. As a product of Indianapolis Public Schools, he is deeply committed to equitable access to education and strives to bridge learning gaps in inner-city schools.