Raj Samaroo

Ever since Raj Samaroo was nine years old, he has been involved and very passionate about instrumental and vocal music. Raj’s formal music education began at Ohio Northern University. 

After some recording and performance success, Raj enthusiastically transferred to the University of Southern California, where he continued to hone his music skills while studying music education. It was during this period, that his deepening interest in choral music began.

Raj accepted one of the choral director positions for Kids of the Century KOTC, (AKA) Los Angeles City Children’s Choir.  The large vocal ensemble that Raj was responsible for performed various musicals, such as Annie, and competed in vocal competitions. KOTC received a 1st place award in Johnny Mann’s Great American Choral Festival, in Palm Desert, CA.

Upon graduating with his bachelor’s degree in Music Education from USC, Raj began working for the Los Angeles Unified School District as an instrumental music teacher. Along with those responsibilities, Raj’s deepening passion for choral music continued to blossom as he accepted the Choral Directors position at Centenary United Methodist Church in Little Tokyo.

While maintaining his responsibilities as a music teacher and choral conductor, Raj returned to the University of Southern California where he earned a Masters’ Degree in Music Education.

After retiring from the Los Angeles Unified School District, Raj continues to work as director of the Choir at Centenary Methodist Church and became the Director for the Antelope Valley Showcase Chorus in 2019. This outstanding group of A Cappella singers has proven to be the most challenging, and yet rewarding experience.

Raj’s goal is to continue to grow with these organizations and assist with these vocal ensembles in their effort to become outstanding performers and exceptional singers. 

Raj became a Sweet Adelines International 'Harmony 500 Certified Director' at the 2024 Region 11 Contest.