Region 21 Golden West 2022 Summer Seminar

Lori Lyford has been the dynamic director of the internationally acclaimed, multi-award-winning Scottsdale Chorus since 1993. Widely recognized as one of the most sought-after coaches in the Sweet Adelines world, Lori brings decades of experience, passion, and musical excellence to every rehearsal and coaching session.

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Lori began her Sweet Adelines journey in 1983 when she became the director of the Rolling Hills Chorus in Region #13. A decade later, she relocated to Arizona to lead the Scottsdale Chorus, guiding them to International Championship status.

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She holds a Bachelor’s degree in K–12 Music Education and Applied Voice, with a minor in Physical Education, from Whitworth College in Spokane, and in 2007, she earned a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from Northern Arizona University.

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Lori spent 42 years inspiring students as a public school music teacher, retiring in 2020 after a rewarding career that included teaching choir at Chandler High School, where she shared her love of barbershop with countless young singers. In 2017, she was honored as one of Arizona’s Top Five Teachers by the Arizona Educational Foundation.

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A dedicated educator and International Faculty member since 1983, Lori has taught and coached in nearly every region of Sweet Adelines, leaving a lasting impact across the globe.

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Lori has achieved the title of "Master Director 700," which distinguishes those who have directed their choruses to a 700+ point score in competition.  Additionally, Lori is the Sweet Adelines 2025 President's Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient.