Meet Our Director: Monica Tautkus

A Founding Spirt

Monica Tautkus has been the heart and soul of Agoura Hills Harmony Chorus (AHH!) since the very beginning. As a founding member in 1991 and our original director, Monica brings a lifelong passion for music — both instrumental and vocal — to every rehearsal and performance. She plays clarinet and tenor saxophone and has shared her love of music as a high school Show Choir director.

A Lifetime of Harmony

With nearly 50 years in Sweet Adelines International, Monica is recognized throughout the organization as a gifted teacher, coach, and leader in the art of barbershop harmony. She has guided and inspired countless choruses and quartets across the region and has held leadership roles since 1985 — currently serving as Membership Coordinator for Region 11.

Her dedication and impact were honored with the Region 11 Noteworthy Award in 2009, celebrating her outstanding contributions to the Sweet Adelines community.

Leadership and Legacy

Monica’s directing journey began with her “birth chorus,” High Sierra Chorus in Bishop, and continued with Harmony Showcase Chorus in Lancaster — both earning Small Chorus Championships under her leadership.

As a performer, she has sung in numerous quartets and served as the baritone of Colors, the 1990 Region 11 Quartet Champions. Monica also performed with the world-renowned Harborlites Chorus, winning International Gold Medals in 2005 and 2008.

An Inspiring Mentor

Trained by some of the most respected educators in Sweet Adelines, Monica combines musical excellence with warmth, humor, and contagious enthusiasm. Her ability to bring out the best in singers — whether new members or seasoned performers — continues to make her the perfect guide for AHH!

Under her direction, the Agoura Hills Harmony Chorus grows stronger every year in harmony, skill, and joy — embodying the love of music that Monica has shared for a lifetime.

💬 “Monica inspires us to sing with heart, laugh often, and always keep growing in harmony.”
— Members of AHH!