Francis Cathlina
Dr. Francis Cathlina is a Vietnamese-American conductor and educator and serves as Director of Choral Activities at the University of Memphis. He leads the choral area, conducts flagship ensembles, and mentors developing conductors in graduate choral conducting programmes. Known for meticulous preparation and a rehearsal culture built on trust and singer ownership, Cathlina’s work connects conducting, vocal pedagogy, and narrative storytelling in performance. His teaching and scholarship regularly address choral tone, efficient rehearsal technique, and clear communication through gesture and language. He maintains an active profile as a clinician and guest conductor, including international engagements that connect choral pedagogy with cultural exchange, and has been recognised at the University of Memphis with Dean’s awards for creative achievement and engaged scholarship.