I bring over 30 years of rich experience in directing vocal ensembles, composing original music, and conducting musical performances. My passion lies in creating engaging and inclusive artistic experiences, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community and local choruses. I have written hundreds of original compositions, directed numerous theatrical and cabaret productions, and collaborated with a diverse range of performers and audiences. Currently, I serve as Director and Minister of Music at East Shore Unitarian Church in Bellevue, where I lead musical programs that enrich the congregation and the wider community. I also contribute as a composer, playwright, and music director in various theaters and festivals, sharing my love for music and storytelling with people across the country and internationally.

Eric Lane Barnes

I bring over 30 years of rich experience in directing vocal ensembles, composing original music, and conducting musical performances. My passion lies in creating engaging and inclusive artistic experiences, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community and local choruses. I have written hundreds of original compositions, directed numerous theatrical and cabaret productions, and collaborated with a diverse range of performers and audiences. Currently, I serve as Director and Minister of Music at East Shore Unitarian Church in Bellevue, where I lead musical programs that enrich the congregation and the wider community. I also contribute as a composer, playwright, and music director in various theaters and festivals, sharing my love for music and storytelling with people across the country and internationally.

Available to hire

I bring over 30 years of rich experience in directing vocal ensembles, composing original music, and conducting musical performances. My passion lies in creating engaging and inclusive artistic experiences, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community and local choruses. I have written hundreds of original compositions, directed numerous theatrical and cabaret productions, and collaborated with a diverse range of performers and audiences.

Currently, I serve as Director and Minister of Music at East Shore Unitarian Church in Bellevue, where I lead musical programs that enrich the congregation and the wider community. I also contribute as a composer, playwright, and music director in various theaters and festivals, sharing my love for music and storytelling with people across the country and internationally.

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Experience Level

Language

English
Fluent
French
Advanced

Work Experience

Director / Minister of Music at East Shore Unitarian Church
August 1, 2017 - Present
Provide musical direction by composing and arranging songs for the adult mixed choir, conducting rehearsals and services, and collaborating with the ministerial team to create engaging music for various events. Serve as guest speaker on diverse topics and support community engagement initiatives across the Pacific Northwest region. Lead congregational singing and perform piano and other musical pieces during weekly services.
Writer/Composer/Band Member at 14/48 Theatre Festivals
September 1, 2008 - Present
Authored eighteen plays across nine festival participations, composed original songs to match festival themes, and performed as a band member playing piano, keyboards, autoharp, trumpet, melodica, and vocals. Collaborated on joint productions and participated in music-only projects to deliver dynamic theatrical experiences.
Music Director/Music Experience Provider at Pacific Regent, Skyline, Horizon House
September 1, 2018 - Present
Direct multiple choruses comprising around 35 voices each, preparing holiday and spring concerts with rehearsals, song selection, arrangements, and scripts. Teach music appreciation classes with varied topics and provide regular piano/vocal performances. Offer emotional and musical support to residents and their families in senior care facilities.
Artistic Director at Puget Soundworks
May 1, 2021 - August 29, 2025
Curated, composed, arranged, and directed live and virtual concerts for the LGBTQIA+ community, emphasizing diverse voices. Managed rehearsals, created orchestrations for multiple instruments, and collaborated with guest artists to produce inclusive performances.
Associate Artistic Director at Seattle Men’s Chorus and Seattle Women’s Chorus
June 30, 2017 - August 29, 2025
Collaborated in artistic direction, composition, arrangement, and orchestration for large LGBT QIA+ choruses. Led rehearsals, conducted concerts, created scripts and sketches, founded and directed vocal theater ensembles, and managed auditions and member interactions for multiple seasons.
Freelance Songwriter/Composer/Playwright at Self-employed
September 1, 1987 - Present
Wrote over 300 original songs, seven full-length shows, children’s shows, and numerous musical revues. Received commissions from multiple national and international choruses, developed award-winning theatrical productions, and published a children’s book. Provided artistic development and creative leadership in diverse settings.

Education

Bachelor of Music Education at University of Michigan
January 11, 2030 - August 29, 2025

Qualifications

Member of ASCAP (Lyricist/Composer and Publisher)
January 1, 1996 - August 29, 2025

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Healthcare, Professional Services