Christopher Pluntke, a native of Germany, studied at the Hochschule für Musik Würzburg and has more than 25 years of experience as a church musician, directing vocal ensembles and period instrument groups, and performing as an organist, pianist, and continuo player. He is the founder and musical director of Ensemble Continuo, a Palo Alto–based chamber choir that brings together singers to explore a wide range of classical repertoire.