Patrick Quigley to Conclude Tenure After 24 Years
Seraphic Fire will mark a historic transition at the end of the 2025–26 season. Co-founder and Artistic Director Patrick Dupre Quigley, who began Seraphic Fire nearly 24 years ago, will conclude his tenure at the close of next season. Quigley built the ensemble from its beginnings in a South Miami church into Florida’s only GRAMMY-nominated professional vocal ensemble, now recognized nationally for its artistry and versatility.
Reflecting on his time with Seraphic Fire, Quigley said, “At the end of this season, I will have been with Seraphic Fire for half of my life. The patience, kindness and care that the artists, board, and staff have shown me over nearly 24 years—especially since this was my first time being an artistic director—is that of a family. There are very few places where that could happen, and happen so successfully.”
Although he will step away from the artistic director role, Quigley will remain closely connected to the ensemble. Beginning in 2026, he will hold the title of Artistic Director Laureate, returning regularly to conduct performances in Miami, Coral Gables, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Naples.
James K. Bass Named Next Artistic Director
Seraphic Fire is pleased to announce that James K. Bass will succeed Quigley as Artistic Director beginning in the fall of 2026. Bass, a longtime member of the ensemble, has sung with Seraphic Fire since its earliest years and in recent seasons has taken on a greater conducting presence. He will open this year’s season with The Best of Seraphic Fire October 9–12 across South Florida.
Bass brings a wealth of experience as Professor and Director of Choral Studies at the Herb Alpert School of Music at UCLA, Artistic Director of the Long Beach Camerata Singers, and Program Director of the Professional Choral Institute at the Aspen Music Festival. He earned his doctorate from the University of Miami and has deep roots in the South Florida choral community.
Speaking about his appointment, Bass said, “I am truly honored to have received this invitation to artistically lead the organization that has transformed me personally and professionally. Patrick Quigley has created something absolutely extraordinary in Seraphic Fire, and we all are indebted to him for bringing such beauty and passion into our world. It is my intention to continue his vision and fold in my own perspectives to the rich story being told by Seraphic Fire.”
Diane Ashley, Chair of Seraphic Fire, shared, “We are absolutely thrilled that James is going to sustain and nourish the Seraphic Fire tradition. His longevity with our ensemble and commitment to our vision makes him the perfect partner to grow our musical outreach both locally and nationally.”
Looking Toward the Future
With Quigley’s legacy and Bass’s leadership, Seraphic Fire is poised for an exciting next chapter. Audiences can expect the ensemble’s signature blend of historically significant and underperformed music, alongside new directions that reflect Bass’s strengths in Late Romantic, 20th, and 21st-century repertoire. Plans for future collaborations with organizations such as the New World Symphony and explorations of crossover-style programming are already being discussed.
Executive Director Danny M. Yanez, Ed.D., CFRE, shared, “We are profoundly grateful to Patrick for everything he has given to Seraphic Fire. His vision and artistry built this ensemble into what it is today, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role as Artistic Director Laureate. He is not going anywhere, and that is a gift for all of us. At the same time, we are thrilled to welcome James as our next Artistic Director. He is a fantastic choice and will carry Patrick’s legacy forward while taking Seraphic Fire to new heights.”
As this transition approaches, Seraphic Fire remains committed to the artistry, education programs, and community connections that define our mission. We invite our patrons to experience this season’s concerts, celebrate Patrick Dupre Quigley’s final year as Artistic Director, and welcome James K. Bass as he prepares to shape the ensemble’s next era.
Tickets for The Best of Seraphic Fire are available now, October 9–12, across South Florida. Hear South Florida’s GRAMMY-nominated choir live in the beautiful St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Miami (Oct 9), the intimate St. Philip’s Episcopal in Coral Gables (Oct 10), the vibrant sound of All Saints Episcopal on Las Olas in Ft. Lauderdale (Oct 11), and the incredible acoustics of St. Gregory’s Episcopal in Boca Raton (Oct 12).
Season subscriptions remain the best value and are selling quickly, giving you priority seating and access to unforgettable concerts all year long. Reserve your seats today at seraphicfire.org/tickets or call 305.285.9060.
