A Passion for Choral Music

Photo courtesy of New Haven Chorale

Since 1950, the New Haven Chorale has spread joy and passion for choral music in Greater New Haven.

On October 7, 2017, it will hold an annual Gala to help it continue its mission bringing together community singers to present high-level, professionally-conducted choral music to the region. The evening event, "Direct from Las Vegas," features The Edwards Twins, World-Famous Celebrity Impersonators, at the Pine Orchard Country Club in Branford, CT.

The 85-member community chorus assembles singers from all walks of life. Retirees, undergraduates, and all manner of professionals including doctors, teachers, computer programmers, and architects stand shoulder to shoulder, united by their love of music and sense of community.

Before becoming a member of the chorale, singers have to pass an audition. Once they are accepted, members are challenged to improve their musicianship through rehearsals and performances.

Directed by Edward Bolkovac, Professor of Choral Music at The Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford, the New Haven Chorale performs a range of classical and contemporary compositions including the work of Connecticut composers. In addition to performing in Yale's Woolsey Hall and areas churches, the Chorale also visits senior homes and children's hospitals.

The Chorale also has an educational mission and partners with St. Martin de Porres Academy to teach music to young children.

For more information about the New Haven Chorale, visit its profile on giveGreater.org.

Did you Know?

The Chorale's roots go back to the vision of conductor Robert Shaw, who inspired a national movement of local amateur choral groups devoted to musical excellence. The New Haven Chorale's founder, Alden Hammond, was a Shaw protégé who graduated from Yale on the GI bill.

This story is part of the Inspiration Monday story series produced by The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven.