Ray Chew named new music director of 'Dancing with the Stars'

Chew's band will feature live musicians and singers, beginning with the premiere of season 18 Monday, March 17

"Dancing with the Stars" will welcome music director and composer Ray Chew to the ballroom with the premiere of season 18 Monday, March 17 at 8 p.m. on ABC. Chew's band will feature a new lineup of live musicians and singers performing music ranging from the latest pop hits to the great standards of the past.

Conrad Green, executive producer of "Dancing with the Stars," said, "Live music is the lifeblood of 'DWTS,' and we couldn't be more excited to be working with Ray and his talented band. Ray is one of the most versatile and dynamic musicians working today. It promises to be a spectacular season."

Chew commented, "I'm looking forward to continuing the musical legacy established on 'Dancing with the Stars,' a show that respects live music and musicians. It is important to me and to the producers to maintain the integrity of the music presentation for the dancers, as well as for the viewers. Towards that end, my approach will be to utilize first-class live vocalists, arrangers, copyists and musicians of all instruments."

Chew most recently served as the music director of the 65^th Annual Emmy Awards. He has also been seen on such network television series and specials as "American Idol," "It's Showtime at the Apollo," and additional historic landmark events ranging from President Obama's Inaugural Neighborhood Ball to the Democratic National Convention. Chew also conducted a 63-piece orchestra for Carnegie Hall's sold-out "A Night of Inspiration," a live event he produced as part of its diversity series.