Turlock resident Phillip Smallwood has been selected as the new director of the Merced College Community Chorus. Smallwood’s musical experience is deep and includes stints as a performer, director, teacher, and instrumentalist. “Phillip is very familiar with the performing arts community in Merced, as he has been the musical director for several productions at Playhouse Merced, including ‘Big Fish’ and ‘Rock of Ages,’” said Shelly Conner, dean of economic and workforce development, community services and noncredit.