Dr. Bevan Keating, associate professor of music and director of conducting and choral studies at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, has been named executive director at Wildwood Park for the Arts, effective Oct. 8.

Keating has been teaching and conducting for 14 years at UA Little Rock and directs UA Little Rock’s Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, and Community Choir. He will leave UA Little Rock at the end of the semester.

“Dr. Keating is an outstanding musician with a passion for the arts,” said Vicki Lind, chair of UA Little Rock’s Music Department. “Throughout his years at UA Little Rock, he has been a valued colleague, teacher, and friend. He has continually provided opportunities for our students to sing great works and to perform alongside world class musicians. It is hard to imagine UA Little Rock without him, but we wish him the very best as he pursues his passion for community engagement in the arts.”

Keating previously served as Wildwood’s artistic director and will now replace former executive director Leslie Golden in the top post.

“I am honored by the opportunity to continue Wildwood’s mission of enriching the lives of Arkansans of all ages through nature and the arts,” Keating said. “I look forward to exploring the possibilities for community engagement and development at Wildwood Park for the Arts.”

Keating also directs music and the arts at Little Rock’s Second Presbyterian Church, home to the Praeclara performing arts organization.