Redwood High School Appoints New Choral Program Director
The appointment of Camryn Deisman marks the first time in 68 years a woman holds the permanent post in the district.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Secondary Education
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Camryn Deisman began her tenure as choral director at Redwood High School in June 2026, marking a significant milestone for the Visalia Unified School District. She is the first woman to hold a permanent high school choir director position in the district since 1958.
Why it matters
Deisman, a 2022 Redwood High School graduate, brings a new pedagogical focus on independent musicianship to the program. Her approach aims to strengthen individual student performance while maintaining the high standards of the school's five vocal ensembles.
Deisman oversees all five choirs at Redwood High School, including two advanced ensembles that achieved unanimous superior ratings at a Fresno State music festival in October 2026. She holds degrees in music education and vocal performance from UCLA.
The players
Camryn Deisman
The current Redwood High School choral director who is an auxiliary member of the Los Angeles Master Chorale.
Redwood High School
A public secondary school in Visalia that maintains a competitive music program featuring five distinct choral groups.
Visalia Unified School District
The local educational agency managing secondary schools across the city of Visalia.
The details
Deisman emphasizes independent musicianship to help students master vocal techniques as both soloists and ensemble members. She incorporates targeted exercises and group activities designed to build individual confidence and technical skill. This methodology builds upon the legacy of former director Mel Carrillo, who departed for a faculty position at Point Loma Nazarene University.
Timeline
1958: Last time a woman held a permanent choir director position in the district.
2022: Camryn Deisman graduated from Redwood High School.
June 2026: Deisman was appointed as the new choral director.
October 2026: Redwood choirs earned unanimous superior ratings at a Fresno State festival.
The Home Front
This transition marks a departure from the staffing patterns established by the 1958 school district personnel record. It highlights a shift in local educational leadership, moving away from a multi-decade trend in district-level choral appointments.
Parents of students in the music program should review the upcoming performance calendar to see how the new teaching focus impacts the students' development. Consider supporting the program by attending local concert events featuring the Chamber Singers and Ranger Choir.
The takeaway
Camryn Deisman brings a new technical approach to the Redwood High School choral department, prioritizing individual student musicianship. Parents can track the progress of these five choirs by attending local events or reviewing updates from the school's music department.
Further reading
For more on how local schools are evolving, see Secondary Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by VisaliaTimesDelta.
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