Christopher Sterling is a conductor, bassist, and educator based in Orange County, California. Originally from Garden Grove, his work spans orchestral performance, conducting, and music education.
He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Double Bass Performance and Music Education from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at California State University, Long Beach, where he studied with Douglas Basye. During his undergraduate studies, he performed regularly in orchestral and chamber settings while developing his teaching experience, coaching middle and high school bassists and later leading clinics for high school orchestras.
In addition to his classical training, Sterling was active as a jazz bassist, performing in combos and writing arrangements for both small groups and larger ensembles. This work broadened his experience as both a performer and arranger.
Midway through his undergraduate studies, he began formal conducting training with Branden Muresan of the Southern California Philharmonic. He has since continued his development through workshops and study with Edward Dolbashian, Kenneth Kiesler, and Dean Anderson. His conducting emphasizes clarity, efficiency, and direct musical communication.
Sterling is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Conducting at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music, where he studies with Johannes Müller Stosch.
A central focus of his work is making music more accessible to younger musicians through teaching, coaching, and community engagement.