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The San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir: Celebrating 28 Years of Brotherly Love

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 90 days before the concert.

The Artists

The San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir
Ruth Hertz Weber, Director
Michael Munson, Piano
Emilia Lopez-Yañez, Oboe
Zisl Slepovitch, Clarinet
Bob Weller, Drums
Doron Peisic, Accordion

Special Guests

Artist's Name

The San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir

Artist's Name

Ruth Hertz Weber

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About the Artists

The San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir
Ruth Hertz Weber

The San Diego Jewish Men's Choir (SDJMC), called, “one of the finest vocal ensembles San Diego has to offer,” by the S.D. Troubadour Magazine, has been in existence for 28 years and is made up of a group of 25 singers, from various walks of life, backgrounds, and ages (21-91yrs). They are a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. The members share a common goal, the preservation, performance, and promotion of Jewish choral music. They fulfill this mission through concerts, recordings, community outreach events, and appearances at festivals.  

Under the musical direction of Ruth Weber, the men’s choir presents over 25 concerts a year throughout the Southern California area and beyond. They have been featured on the documentary Forever Strong, the Latin Grammy winning children’s artist Mr. G’s album, The Mitzvah Bus, and on 3X Grammy winner Ricky Kej’s album, Shanti Samsara for Environmental Consciousness.  The group has appeared on KPBS, Jewish Life Television, on the Chabad Telethon, and have traveled to Nebraska to perform as featured artists with the Omaha Symphony Orchestra, as well as making other out of state tours

 SDJMC has released three albums; “Heritage,” winner of a Global Music Award in 2014, their 2X Billboard charting album, “KOCHI,” a musical celebration of the history of the Jews in India, blending timeless Jewish melodies with traditional Indian instrumentation, and their most recent critically acclaimed album “LEGACY,” which won a silver medal in the Global Music Awards. The choir’s music is currently on regular rotation on 119 radio stations in the U.S. and Canada and the albums are available on most online music sales and streaming sites.

 The choir recently completed a documentary-short film entitled, Ale Brider (All My Brothers) which has garnered a Best Documentary Award from the Jane Austen International Film Festival and Paris International Short Film Festival, A Bronze Award in the Hollywood Independent Film Awards and Festival,  3 awards in the Accolade International Film competition, and an award for Best Music Composition in the Hong Kong International Film Awards. The film is now being aired on Jewish Life TV periodically throughout the next 3 years.

The group’s East Coast tour in February 2026 will include their Carnegie Hall debut concert in Weill Hall with DCINY and a concert in the Museum of Jewish Heritage in Battery Park.

Ruth Hertz Weber is an accomplished composer/songwriter/ director, whose music and arrangements have graced numerous albums, film scores, print music publications, and performances by symphonies. Upon receiving her Master of Music degree from Cal. State University, Northridge, Weber worked as an accompanist for the L.A. Philharmonic Institute, Opera Aguascalientes, CSUN, and as a recording artist for the Marantz Co.’s, Music Minus One records. Weber was Artistic Director for Jean Will Presents, The Disciple Singers, and The S.D. Jewish Men’s Choir (SDJMC). Under Ruth’s direction SDJMC released 3 albums. The second, KOCHI, charted at #3 on the Billboard Charts, receiving an AMA award for Best World Beat Album. The Disciple Singers, appeared on the, Action Moves People United album with actor Dan Aykroyd and recording artist Julian Lennon, and were featured in the film, One Little Finger. Weber is part of the duo Ruth and Emilia. Their children’s albums have won a Parent’s Choice Award, and their album, I Had a Dream: Songs of an Immigrant, is part of the permanent exhibit at the ANU Museum of the Jewish People in Tel Aviv, Israel. 185 Ruth has been a long-time music instructor at Palomar College and S.D. Miramar College. 

Michael Munson

Dr. Michael D. Munson is an adjunct Professor of Music at Palomar College, where he teaches Music Theory and Skills, Applied Piano, and Class Piano. He accompanies the Chamber Singers and has played for ballet classes since 1994. Munson earned his Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Accompanying and Chamber Music from the Eastman School of Music in 1992.

Dr. Munson is the organist of the First United Methodist Church of Escondido and current Dean of the Palomar Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. He has concertized in Southern California, the eastern United States, and Europe. He has also given four concerts at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park in San Diego as part of the weekly Sunday Concert Series there.

Dr. Munson has played for the San Diego Jewish Men’s Choir for many years.

Dr. Munson also has a selection of his compositions and arrangements available on musicnotes.com.

Emilia Lopez-Yañez

Since receiving her master’s degree and graduate certificate in music from USC, Emilia Lopez-Yañez has performed as an oboist/vocalist worldwide, including in Davies Symphony Hall, (S.F.), The Hollywood Bowl, (L.A.), Segerstrom Hall, (Costa Mesa), Beacon Theatre (N.Y), Teatro Aguascalientes, (Mexico), Smetana Hall and Estates Theater (Czech Republic) and more. While playing on film and video game soundtracks and on Billboard charting recordings alongside legendary performers like Alan White (YES) and Dan Aykroyd, Emilia maintains a busy performing schedule and runs her bi-lingual music and movement program, Malinky Music, and a private teaching studio.

Zisl Slepovitch

D. Zisl Slepovitch is a native of Minsk, Belarus, and a New Yorker since 2008. He is a musicologist (Ph.D., Belarusian State Academy of Music); a multi-instrumentalist klezmer, classical, and improvisational musician (woodwinds, keyboards); a composer, ethnographer, arranger-orchestrator, conductor, a music and Yiddish educator. Slepovitch is a founding member of the critically acclaimed klezmer group Litvakus as well as Zisl Slepovitch Ensemble. He has appeared in, wrote and arranged music for numerous productions by the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene (New York), State Jewish Theatre (Bucharest), and other theatre companies; worked with Ljova, Frank London, Sasha Lurje, Zalmen Mlotek, Hankus Netsky, and JD Parran, among others. Slepovitch serves as Musician-in-Residence at Yale University’s Fortunoff Video Archive for Holocaust Testimonies, where he has produced a series of critically acclaimed records. He regularly appears as a guest lecturer and artist at universities and festivals in the US, Europe, and Israel. Among Slepovitch’s theatre, film, and TV credits are the Defiance movie, Eternal Echoes album (Sony Classical), Rejoice with Itzhak Perlman and Cantor Yitzchak Meir Helfgot (PBS), and Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish (off-Broadway). @zislepovitch zislepovitch.com

Bob Weller

Bob Weller graduated Cal. State Northridge in 1979 with a Bachelors in Percussion. While there he studied composition with Frank Campo, Aurelio De La Vega and Ladd McIntosh. Bob has played percussion with the Phoenix Symphony and the LA Philharmonic. While living in NY he played with many well-known jazz artists and studied piano with Phil Markowitz and drums with Peter Erskine. He has performed percussion/drums in numerous musicals, including the West Coast pre-Broadway revival of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum directed by Des McAnuff, starring Nathan Lane, which went on to win the 1996 Tony Award for best musical revival. Other productions include The Music Man, Mame, Annie Get Your Gun, Man of La Mancha at the Lawrence Welk Dinner Theater. Bob earned the RPT [Registered Piano Technician] designation from the Piano Technicians Guild in 2001. He recently published his first book, “Stravinsky and Cubism,” available on Amazon.com. He currently teaches drum set and jazz piano at Palomar College in San Marcos, California. 


Doron Peisic

Doron Peisic is an accomplished singer, accordionist, harpist, pianist, guitarist, educator, and composer whose work bridges classical and contemporary expression. Known for his warmth and connectedness, Doron brings a distinctive voice to the instruments he plays, shaped by years of study across instruments and cultures. His musical training began at age 12 and includes studies both in the Tel Aviv Conservatory and in the US. Doron’s performances span chamber ensembles, solo recitals, and collaborative projects that explore the intersection of sound, identity, and place. He has performed in a variety of venues, from the historical Del Coronado hotel in San Diego to city arts halls, weddings, holidays, and celebrations. He is also a licensed harp therapist who has researched and practiced music therapy using an adaptive and customized methodology for Israeli soldiers, the Veterans Administration, and private patients.  Doron’s approach is rooted in authenticity, energy, and a deep respect for the transformative potential of his music.This Carnegie Hall debut marks an exciting personal and artistic milestone. Doron is grateful to be celebrating not only music’s expressive power, but also the communities, mentors, and audiences who continue to shape his journey. 


Stabat Mater & Symphonic Adiemus: The Music of Sir Karl Jenkins

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 90 days before the concert.

Acts

Jonathan Griffith, DCINY Artistic Director and Principal Conductor

Jenkins: Stabat Mater 
Jenkins: Symphonic Adiemus

Also Featuring:

Sir Karl Jenkins, CBE, DCINY Composer-in-Residence

Elliott Forrest, WQXR Radio Personality and Host

Baidar Albasri, Contralto

Heather Petrie, Contralto

Participating Groups

Prairie Vox Community Choir

Großer Chor des Jean-Paul-Gymnasiums Hof

The Chancel Choir of Saint John's Methodist Church

Voiceart Bern

Kirchenchor Dorfen

unAIRhört

Pennsbury High School Choir

Kirchenchor Markdorf

Choral Artists of Carmel

CoroVivo

Joyful Band of Singers

The Steward School Upper School Chorus

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Jonathan Griffith

Artist's Name

Sir Karl Jenkins, CBE

Artist's Name

Elliott Forrest

Artist's Name

Baidar Albasri

Press & Marketing

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Participating Group Directors

Prairie Vox Community Choir
Janine Waines
Prairie Vox Community Choir is a non-auditioned, inclusive adult choir in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. Founded by Lori Mackedenski in January 2023, it has grown into an artistic touchstone for the community. With Artistic Director Janine Waines, who assumed her role in June 2024, the choir has expanded in size and scope. Members come from Portage la Prairie and surrounding communities including McGregor, Oakville, Ste. Claude, and Winnipeg. Past performances include collaborations with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and participation in the Prairie Sounds Music Festival.
Janine Waines holds a Bachelor of Music (1999) and Bachelor of Education (2004) from Brandon University and a Master of Education in Curriculum Studies (2014) from Acadia University. She taught Grade 7/8 band in Brandon (2004–2014), then directed high school band in Swift Current (2014–2020). From 2020–2022, she taught at the American International School in Hong Kong, co-directed the Tak-Ming Philharmonic Winds, and performed with the ensemble. Returning to Manitoba in 2023, she became Artistic Director of the Prairie Vox Community Choir and launched Junior Vox in 2025. Janine is dedicated to inclusive, community-centered music education.

Großer Chor des Jean-Paul-Gymnasiums Hof
Maniana Fueg and Stephan Strunz
The choir is a typical school choir consisting of about 90 students from grades seven through thirteen. Therefore, the mixed choir is constantly changing. The choir has participated in several concerts with the Hof Symphonic Orchestra and the St. Michael church choir in Hof. In January 2023, part of the choir joined DCINY, performing The Requiem by Karl Jenkins. The students also participated in a choir competition in Upper Franconia, which resulted in a professional CD recording. The choir's repertoire includes rock, pop, and classical music, such as Bach's Christmas Oratorio and Bob Chilcott's Peace Mass. Twenty-three students and two teachers have gathered for this concert to join the project.
Stephan Strunz has played various instruments since he was four. He studied music in Würzburg and Weimar. Besides his studies he also took classes in conducting. Since 2009, he has been a teacher for music at the Jean-Paul-Gymnasium. He is in charge of several orchestras and choirs at church. Maniana Füg has made music since she was five. She studied music and English in Zwickau and Chemnitz. She had been a teacher at a Waldorf school before teaching at the Jean-Paul-Gymnasium. Additionally, she worked for the institution of schooling and quality management in Munich conceiving the curriculum for music.

The Chancel Choir of Saint John's Methodist Church
Dr. Matt Caine
The Chancel Choir of St. John’s Methodist Church of Aiken (SC) is a 50-voice volunteer choir of singers ranging in age from 18 to 94. The choir presents two to three choral-orchestral works annually, recently performing Handel’s Messiah, Sir Karl Jenkins’ Joy to the World and Stabat Mater, Joseph Martin’s Song of the Shadows, and Rutter’s Magnificat among others. This is in addition to weekly presentations of anthems of diverse styles, ranging from Renaissance to recent compositions, in worship. The Chancel Choir is honored to make its Carnegie Hall debut performing one of its most beloved works, Jenkins’ Stabat Mater.
Dr. Matt Caine is Director of Traditional Music at St. John's Methodist Church, Aiken, SC, where he oversees a robust music program, conducting multiple choral and instrumental ensembles. He is in frequent demand as guest conductor in diverse settings, such as recent engagements with the New Mexico Symphonic Chorus and Orchestra and the Aiken County Public Schools Honors Chorus. Both a Fulbright Scholar and a Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellow in Bulgarian Language and Culture of the United States Department of Education, he is a frequent presenter on national, regional, and state conferences of the American Choral Directors Association.

Voiceart Bern

Noe Ito Fröscher
Voiceart Bern is an inclusive and diverse choir of over 70 singers of all ages performing a vibrant mis of pop, rock, musical, gospel and classical crossover. The choir rehearses weekly under the direction of Noe Ito Fröscher. Their most recent major project, Carmina and More, brought together over 250 singers and a full orchestra.
Swiss-Japanese soprano Noe Ito Fröscher is a versatile artist whose career spans performance, conducting, therapy and pedagogy. She earned her Master’s degree in Pedagogy and Performance at University of performative Arts in Bern and has pursued advanced studies in musical theatre. As a soloist, she has performed throughout Switzerland, Europe, and Japan, captivating audiences with expressive interpretations and stylistic range. Beyond the stage, she is an experienced choral director, singing teacher, and movement therapist, bringing a holistic approach to vocal artistry and education. Founder and artistic leader of “noeandfriends”, she curates large-scale concerts and workshops that foster collaboration and connect diverse audiences.

unAIRhört

Wolf Tobias Müller
unAIRhört is a quite new ensemble, built up by employees of AIRBUS Hamburg. Developed as a choir project for a concert in Hamburg's main church 'St. Michael' the singers were enthusiastic to go on singing after the first performance. Musical founder of the ensemble is Wolf Tobias Müller. The repertoire is versatile like singing the classical a capella repertoire but also popular music like covering songs by Supertramp.
After studying conducting in Hamburg, Wolf Tobias Müller became assistant conductor of Simone Young, working with professional orchestras in Germany, Sweden and Great Britain. The core repertoire is the late romantic German symphonic repertoire and contemporary music. Being conductor of symphony orchestras and choirs Müller regularly perform the big symphonic oratorios as the requiems by Brahms and Verdi or Mahler 2nd and 3rd Symphony. Alongside he is principal choir director of the choir association of northern Germany. His task is to teach prospective choir directors and give advices for choirs to increase the audience and improve performance skills.

Pennsbury High School Choir
Lindsey Strauss
The Pennsbury High School Choral Music Department, with approximately 250 students, is composed of five choirs spanning grades nine through twelve. The choral department includes four academic choirs, an auditioned after school ensemble which is our Chamber Choir, a three-level Music Theory Program including AP Theory, and Music Technology courses, as well as a Piano Skills class and Musical Theatre class. Each year, the Choral Department also sponsors the annual Musical Theatre production. Past productions include The Addams Family, Anastasia and The Music Man. The choir has performed in many prestigious locations such as Gewandhaus (Leipzig), Thomaskirche (Leipzig), Smetana Hall (Prague), Holocaust Museum (Washington, D.C.), and Princeton University Chapel as well as Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall (NYC). Follow us on PennsburySings.org
Lindsey graduated from Pennsbury High School in 2001 and earned a B.S. in Music Education, a B.A. in Vocal Performance from Lebanon Valley College, and a master's degree in Choral Education from Virginia Commonwealth University. She also served as Choral Director and Music Theory Teacher at North Stafford High School in Stafford, Virginia from 2005-2014. She was honored to be named "Teacher of the Year" in 2010. Lindsey is currently serving as a Choral Director at Pennsbury High School where she conducts five choirs, is the Producer and Music Director for the Annual Spring Musical Production and is the Artistic Director of the Pennsbury Community Chorus. Lindsey has been a guest director in Virginia and Pennsylvania and has conducted in venues such as the Thomaskirche (Leipzig), Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Jacob's (Rothenburg). She resides in Yardley, PA with her two sons Benjamin and Jackson.

Kirchenchor Markdorf

Johannes Tress
The Church Choir of St. Nikolaus Markdorf is a 70-voice ensemble of singers of all ages. For over 100 years the choir has led worship at major liturgical celebrations with solemn masses and choral works, and every two years presents a large sacred concert for the broader community. The choir’s repertoire ranges from Handel’s Saul and Dvořák’s Stabat Mater to Mendelssohn’s Paulus, Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle, John Rutter’s Magnificat, and Karl Jenkins’ Gloria. The ensemble also undertakes concert tours throughout Germany and neighboring European countries, strengthening musical and cultural ties beyond its home parish.
Johannes Tress, born in 1990, is Director of Music at St. Nikolaus Markdorf, where he leads multiple choral groups. He studied organ, improvisation, choral conducting, and voice at the University of Church Music in Rottenburg, following earlier studies in Latin and Theology. A frequent participant in international masterclasses, he also directs the women’s choir “Le Crescentis,” teaches for the German Choral Association and Baden-Württemberg Youth Choir Association, and performs with various other ensembles.

Choral Artists of Carmel
Robin McKee Williams
The Choral Artists of Carmel includes singers from San Francisco Opera, Gilbert and Sullivan Society NYC, Berlin Germany, West Bay Ooera, Carmel Bach Festival. CAOC features choral works as well as solo performance. CAOC premieres new choral works.
Robin McKee Williams MA, CMVT is the director and founder of the Choral Artists of Carmel. CAOC's repertoire includes baroque, classical, romantic, impressionistic and contemporary classical choral music. Many of CAOC's singers are professional opera singers as well as concert artists. Ms William's training includes DCINY choral mentoring program from 2012 to 2020. Her training includes Royal Conservatory of Music, Stanford University, San Jose State University and private studies with Michael Adelson of NYC. The Choral Artists of Carmel will be premiering Heather Green's " Metamorphosis of Swans" this January 2026. The choral piece " Wings" in Ms. Green's opera is a text composed by Robin Mckee Williams.

CoroVivo
Patric Ricklin
CoroVivo sees itself as an institution for a vibrant choral culture and offers a whole range of choral projects as well as voice training and singing technique. In 2008, the young, dynamic choir CoroVivo was founded by professional singer and music teacher Patric Ricklin. The choir has since developed into a thriving institution and now offers three permanent choirs in the classical and pop genres, various choir projects, and the CoroVivo Academy. Every year, up to 300 singers perform with CoroVivo. CoroVivo gives 2-3 concerts each year. CoroVivo Travel also offers opportunities for smaller groups, such as the current Karl Jenkins concert at Carnegie Hall in New York.
Patric Ricklin trained as an opera singer in Switzerland and spent many years singing on European stages as a baritone and musical theater singer. For more than 15 years, he has been the founder, artistic director, and conductor of CoroVivo, which has three choirs in the classical and pop genres with over 300 singers. He also leads various choir projects such as the Sils Choir Weeks and conducts large choir performances, for example in at the Tonhalle Zurich. As a cultural manager and adult educator, one of his great strengths is his ability to teach singing skills in a clear and empathetic way and lead amateur choirs to perform at their best.

Joyful Band of Singers
Finley Woolston
The Joyful Band of Singers is an invitation only ensemble formed for specific performances. Membership varies depending on the requirements
Retired United Methodist Church Music Director, Music Director of Eastern North Carolina community chorus Crystal Coast Choral Society, member of Schola Cantorum, Chorus of the Episcopal Diocese of Eastern North Carolina

This is Christmas

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 90 days before the concert.

Acts

Mary McDonald, Composer/Conductor

McDonald: This Is Christmas

Jonathan Griffith, DCINY Artistic Director and Principal Conductor

Highlights from Handel’s Messiah

Beth Everett, Guest Conductor

The Music of Mary McDonald

Also Featuring:

Emily Drennan, Soloist

Participating Groups

St. Mark's Lutheran Church's Chancel Choir

“The Light of the World Church” Choir

Daytona Beach Choral Society

Sunday 7pm Choir

Green Valley Presbyterian Church

First Baptist Church of North Wilkesboro Chancel Choir

The Cocoa Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir

Alabama Civic Chorale

The Sanctuary Choir of First Baptist Church, Pine Bluff

Witness Music Utah

Our Savior Lutheran Church Choir

McCabe United Methodist Chancel Choir

Dandridge Community Choir

Algoa Music Ministry

Belin Memorial United Methodist Church

Sanctuary Choir, First Presbyterian Church, Greenville, SC

Juda Zion Community Church Choir

Smith River Singers

White Bluff Chapel Choir

The Sanctuary Choir of First Baptist Sylvester

Sanctuary Choir, Manchaca United Methodist Church

Sharp Memorial United Methodist Church Adult Choir

Trinity Lutheran Church Choir

First Methodist Church Morehead City Chancel Choir

Knoxville First Cumberland Presbyterian Church Choir

Asbury United Methodist Church Chancel Choir, Birmingham, Alabama

Morningside Baptist Church Choir (Greenville, SC)

Newton County High School Choir

Courthouse Community United Methodist Church Chancel Choir

Zanesville Civic Chorus

Bethel Baptist Praise Choir

The Worship Place Choir

New Covenant United Methodist Church Chancel Choir

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Mary McDonald

Artist's Name

Jonathan Griffith

Artist's Name

Beth Everett

Artist's Name

Emily Drennan

Press & Marketing

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Participating Group Directors

St. Mark's Lutheran Church's Chancel Choir
Krystal Di Espada

Under the direction of Krystal Di Espada, with Rosangel Perez as Organist and Pianist, the Chancel Choir includes Section Leaders Natalie Garcia, Amalia Rosales, Theron Hegarty, and Jacob Perry, along with choir members Jonathan Dedmon, Evelyn Gaiser, and Katharine Rego. This dedicated ensemble combines voices from our congregation and professional musicians to lead worship every Sunday at 10 a.m., following an 8:45 a.m. warm-up rehearsal. From Fall through Spring, the choir offers musical selections that uplift, inspire, and bring the message of the Gospel to life through song.

Krystal Di Espada is a Miami soprano and devoted choral director at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Coral Gables, where she has joyfully led the choir for several years. She has conducted high school, church, and children’s choirs with passion and care. With Romanza Lyric Opera, Krystal has performed lead roles in The Pirate’s Daughter, The Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, and Rigoletto. She was the soprano soloist in the world premiere of Dilem by Sydney Guillaume. Krystal holds a bachelor’s degree in music education, graduating cum laude, and teaches voice, piano, guitar, and recorder.

“The Light of the World Church” Choir
Abner Padilla
The Light of the World – USA Choir is part of the church’s Universal Choir, present across all continents and in over 50 countries. Singing in houses of prayer, public spaces, and at religious and civic events, this ensemble shares a message of faith, unity, and respect through music. Today’s performers represent thousands of voices who proudly live the principle: “Good Christians, better citizens.” Their mission is to inspire and uplift hearts, celebrating the values of harmony, community, and love through song.
Abner began singing in “The Light of the World” church choir in 1987 and started his journey as an assistant in 1994. His performances at Carnegie Hall in 1997 under Sir John Rutter and again in 2022 under Eric Whitacre were, as his mentor the late Kenneth Tuttle, said “Like singing a piece by Beethoven with Beethoven conducting”. Abner began directing after high school, serving in California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Nevada. His lifelong dedication to choral music is rooted in faith, passion, and a deep respect for the power of music to inspire and uplift communities.

Daytona Beach Choral Society
Tawn B. Thomas
The Daytona Beach Choral Society (DBCS) spreads the joy of singing across Volusia County. The choir holds two semesters annually, performing at least four concerts each year and participating in local events, including those at assisted living facilities and residential communities. DBCS offers a diverse musical repertoire, including Classical, Folk, Musical Theatre, Sacred, Pop, Gospel, and Cantatas, providing cultural concerts, group sing opportunities, vocal workshops, and private event entertainment. DBCS is committed to providing an enjoyable choral experience for vocalists of all skill levels, fostering community connections through music and the joy of singing!
Mr. Thomas has a Bachelor's in Music Education from Bethune-Cookman and a Master's in Choral Music Education from Florida State University, where he studied choral conducting. He has taught in Florida’s public school system for over 23 years and is currently an elementary music teacher. He is an active choral arranger, clinician, and adjudicator, has several publications, and has previously served as music director in several churches and as Director of Choral Activities at Bethune-Cookman. Mr. Thomas and his wife, Marsha, reside in Palm Coast, Florida, and are the proud parents of two children.

Sunday 7pm Choir
Edmar Selda

Sunday 7pm Choir is an acclaimed international Catholic choir of over 20 singers and musicians bringing sacred Christian choral music and Catholic hymns to audiences worldwide. Founded in 2013 and singing out of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Ajax, Ontario, Canada, the Sunday 7pm Choir has grown their digital music ministry to over 330,000 YouTube subscribers and 130 Million views. Their music, which ranges from chant and traditional hymns to contemporary praise—is available on Spotify, Apple Music and other streaming platforms. With over 300 live recordings released, their music inspires worship, reflection, and joy, making them a beloved resource of sacred music for churches and congregations around the world.

Edmar Selda is the Director of the Sunday 7pm Choir. Living in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, he sang throughout school, performed with the Anno Domini Chamber Singers and has sung in numerous Catholic celebrations throughout the Archdiocese. In 2013, he established the Sunday 7pm Choir, a not-for-profit sacred music ensemble that, in addition to sharing sacred music, is also honoured to support numerous local charities through its ministry. Edmar is grateful to God for the abundant blessings in his life, his supportive wife and children (Dawn, Noah, Charlotte), his extended family and dedicated Sunday 7pm Choir members without whom none of this would be possible (TS, RP, MS, KW, MW, KI, HS, RD, AT, KB, JMC, SB, LL, KM, JN, SN, JD, AD, AD, KG, MG, MS, CC, RS).

Green Valley Presbyterian Church
Joshua Herrington
Green Valley Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir is located in Henderson, Nevada. More than 20 of its members are represented in today’s Messiah performance. They are fortunate to live in a city that is known for its musical talent and entertainment venues. Established more than 40 years ago, its members perform frequently in GVPC’s monthly concert series which covers all genres of music, is open to the public and live-streamed at www.greenvalleypres.com, where you will also find concert recordings. They are under the direction of Joshua Herrington, Director of Music Ministries.
A native of Orlando, FL, Joshua Herrington is a classically trained pianist and conductor, having studied under Diane Richards and performed solo and collaborative piano throughout the United States and Europe. He moved to Las Vegas to become a church music director and over the past decade serves as rehearsal pianist for Nevada Ballet Theater, Associate Director Las Vegas Sinfonietta, directed for Vegas City Opera, and Director of Music Ministries for Green Valley Presbyterian Church, whose choir members are performing in DCINY’s Messiah. Joshua has a BA in Piano Performance from University of Central Florida and an MA in Orchestral Conducting.

First Baptist Church of North Wilkesboro Chancel Choir
Larisa Leapley
The First Baptist Church of North Wilkesboro Chancel Choir is made up of a wonderful group of volunteers who love to sing! There are 35 members in this choir family and they are the most dedicated people in the country, as most choir members are. They are a blessing!
Larisa Leapley has been the Director of Music at First Baptist Church of North Wilkesboro, NC for 32 years. She holds a bachelors of arts degree from Mars Hill College, now a university, and was fortunate to perform in Carnegie Hall in the late 80's under the direction of John Rutter. Larisa's chancel choir at FBCNW are family and she is excited for them to have this amazing experience to sing in Carnegie Hall.

The Cocoa Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir
Sarina Wolfgang Zaremba
Choral music has been a cherished tradition at Cocoa Presbyterian Church (est. 1958) located on Florida's Space Coast. As a congregation of the PC(USA), the church experienced significant growth in its early days, thanks to its proximity to the beaches and the Kennedy Space Center. A beautiful sanctuary was built and dedicated in 1968. The choral program commenced early in the church's history and though our group is small, it still remains vibrant part of our services to date. We are both thrilled and proud to have our members perform once again at the illustrious Carnegie Hall!
Sarina Wolfgang Zaremba was born into a family with a Navy background, leading to a life of travel around the globe. She began her musical journey at the age of four and has consistently played the piano and performed vocally throughout her life. During her high school years in Japan, she earned top marks in “Far East Choir”, the military version of All State, and has had the privilege of performing for various Marine Corps and Navy Flag Officers, as well as international dignitaries. She also had the recent privilege of performing the National Anthem for country star Chris Janson. Sarina holds a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Winthrop University in South Carolina. She has served as the Director of Music at The Cocoa Presbyterian Church for the last six years and currently operates her own music studio, The Wolfgang Academy of Music.

Alabama Civic Chorale
Bebe Clark Kok
The Alabama Civic Chorale was founded by Earl and Frances Clark in 1947. Mr. Clark directed choirs at a local church and Mrs. Clark was the music teacher at a local high school. Often the youth would practice and sing together. One summer, the two groups worked together to perform a musical written by Mrs. Clark. The high school and youth choirs followed this up with a trip to Ridgecrest Music Conference where they attended classes and sang Handel's Messiah with all attending the conference. Upon return from the trip, Mr. and Mrs. Clark's groups began to practice together many nights each week. Adult choir members joined this group of young people and their first presentation of Messiah was during the Christmas season of 1947. The size of the chorus grew and after a few years, the performance moved to area churches and in 2004 to its present location at Riverchase United Methodist Church. Each year, we present Handel's Messiah to a standing room only audience. November 2025 will be our 78th Annual Performance with over 100 voices, soloists, members of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and organist. Messiah has always been offered free of charge. The Chorale continues today as an organization dedicated to bringing cultural arts to the area and enriching the lives of those who sing and those that hear the group perform.
Bebe Clark Kok began directing the Alabama Civic Chorale in 1993 upon the death of her father and Chorale founder Earl Clark. She holds a bachelor's degree in Music Education with a concentration in Organ from the University of Alabama and a Master of Education in Counseling from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She has taught elementary and secondary choral music and conducted adult, youth and children's choirs. She has been a church organist and choir director and served on the staff of national music conferences. Mrs. Kok has been involved in workshops with composers and conductors including Robert Shaw, John Rutter, Elaine Brown and others. She is a member of American Choral Directors Association and Chorus America. She has served as a College and Career Counselor and NCAA Coordinator in local schools. She served on the Counselor Advisory Board of the University of Alabama and Auburn University. In addition to her work in music, Mrs. Kok also works with students through her company College Planning Services in which she works with over 250 college representatives to help students grades 9-12 make the best choices possible for their future.

The Sanctuary Choir of First Baptist Church, Pine Bluff
Dr. Bryan Bolton
The Sanctuary Choir of First Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, is the heart of the church’s music ministry, leading weekly worship and presenting seasonal programs. These feature chamber ensembles accompanying the choir’s diverse sacred repertoire. With 27 voices, this non-auditioned group sings a wide variety of choral styles and genres, offering excellence in musical worship. Their leadership in worship reflects a commitment to glorifying God through music that is both heartfelt and skillfully prepared. This marks their second appearance with Distinguished Concerts International New York.
Dr. Bolton, originally from Denton, Texas, and raised in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, holds degrees in church music from Ouachita Baptist University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and earned his Doctor of Educational Ministry from Southern Seminary in 2019. His career has blended education and ministry, including college teaching and service in churches across Missouri, Kentucky, and Arkansas. He currently serves as Minister of Music and Children at First Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. A longtime choir and handbell director, he remains active with the Arkansas Master’Singers and Pine Bluff Community Band. He and his wife, Erin, have been married since 1996 and have two children, Kaitlyn (b. 2000) and Keith (b. 2006).

Memorial Lutheran Church Choir
Lois Theesfield
Memorial Lutheran Church Choir is an active choral group from Nevada, Iowa. Led by Director of Music Ministry, Lois Theesfield, the choir not only provides anthems and liturgical music for worship services, but also presents annual Christmas and Spring Concerts that reach out to the immediate community and beyond. Their main goal is spreading the Gospel of Christ through the power of music.
Lois Theesfield received her Bachelor of Science degree with emphasis in organ performance from Concordia University, Seward, Nebraska. She has taught school, developing K-12 music programs, in Glendale, New York and Bettendorf, Iowa. She has served many churches throughout her 50+ professional years as organist, vocal and handbell choir director. She is currently serving as Director of Music Ministry at Memorial Lutheran Church in Nevada, Iowa.

Witness Music Utah
Shane Mickelsen
The mission of Witness Music Utah is to present musical events that teach and testify of Jesus Christ as Savior of the World. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we seek to share a message appropriate for all who honor Christ, of all denominations, through beautiful and inspirational music and words. We perform Rob Gardner's Lamb of God around Easter, for more than 15,000 people every year and for the last 12 years have established it as a beloved Easter Tradition, much like Messiah is for Christmas.
Shane Mickelsen is a conductor and com,poser with a bachelor's degree in vocal performance and a master's degree in music composition. He has conducted a wide variety of choral and instrumental ensembles, including community and professional groups, and works as a music engraver for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Savior Lutheran Church Choir
Marija Loncar Hallman
Directed by Dr. Marija Loncar Hallman since 2013, the Our Savior Lutheran Church Choir brings together amateur and professional musicians in four-part SATB harmony. The ensemble meets faithfully every Thursday evening to rehearse and performs a wide range of classical sacred choral repertoire. In addition to weekly contributions to worship services, the choir presents several large-scale productions throughout the liturgical year. A recent highlight was a dramatic staging of Mary McDonald's "It is Finished." In today's performance, OSLC Choir is represented by the very talented Susan Arreola, soprano, Tiffany Yang, alto, Carol Crittendan, alto, and Arthur Crittendan, tenor.

Dr. Marija Loncar Hallman, a native of Croatia and Serbia, came to the United States on a full merit scholarship to pursue graduate studies. She earned both her Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in Organ Performance from the University of Southern California. As a concert organist, she has performed at some of the nation's most esteemed venues, including St. Patrick's Cathedral and St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue in New York City, the Crystal Cathedral, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, as well as in numerous venues and masterclasses abroad. Marija continues to find deep joy in the ministry of sacred music and in building a faithful, musically vibrant community in Arcadia, California.

McCabe United Methodist Chancel Choir
Gloria Knoll
The McCabe Chancel Choir has a long history of choral excellence. It has been in existence for decades. This group rehearses once a week and provides worship music every Sunday. In addition, the group performs outside of our own church in Summer Sing-Outs, and has had a successful European performance tour. Our choir and VIP patrons are honored to be performing in Carnagie Hall.
Director, Gloria Knoll, is a lifelong musician and director. She is a native North Dakotan and has directed ensembles in 4 other states. Included in her experience are 37 years of teaching Middle School choirs and 40 years of directing church choirs. She is a graduate of Minnesota State University, Moorhead. She has 4 awesome children and 12 talented grandchildren.

Dandridge Community Choir
Debbie J Carper
The Dandridge Community Choir was established in cooperation with area churches to blend community and its resources together to provide high quality music and experiences to its listeners and participants. The Choir has performed with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Mary McDonald, Carson Newman University and other performing artists over more than ten years sharing its gift of music and message to the Community.
Debbie J Carper has passionately served as director, musician, and soloist of adult and student choirs and adult and handbell ensembles for over 40 years in East Tennessee, primarily supporting area churches. Ms. Carper is a graduate of Carson-Newman University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Minor in Church Music.

Algoa Music Ministry
Venita van Wyk
Delegation of 45 members of the combined choir of 200 members stationed in the Algoa Region, Eastern Cape , South Africa
South African Music Development Officer of the United Congregational Churches of Southern Africa (UCCSA)

Belin Memorial United Methodist Church
Jim Sellers
Belin Chancel Choir leads traditional worship at Belin Memorial United Methodist Church in beautiful Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. This 60+ voice, all-volunteer group is renown throughout the coastal region not only for its sound but for its variety of music within the church and throughout the community. The Chancel Choir is excited to be joining Mary McDonald at Carnegie Hall for the second time. Mary has also presented concerts and helped lead worship at Belin Memorial UMC.
Jim Sellers has served as director of Belin Chancel Choir for 21+ years. This is the group's fourth performance with DCINY (three at Carnegie Hall and one at Lincoln Center) and second under Mary McDonald. One of Jim's greatest honors (and surprises) was having the Chancel Choir commission a piece by Mary McDonald in honor of his tenth anniversary with the group.

Sanctuary Choir, First Presbyterian Church, Greenville, SC
Dr. Susan Kitts Messer
The Sanctuary Choir of First Presbyterian Church of Greenville, SC, provides and leads music for two traditional worship services every Sunday. With 75 members, the choir consists of a variety of ages--24 to 92 years. Consisting primarily of volunteers with 15 staff singers, the choir provides a variety of styles each Sunday--from spirituals to hymn arrangements to classical music. Our community anticipates our annual Christmas at First concerts with audiences of 1000 at each concert. The goal of the choir is to glorify God through excellence with the end goal of making disciples who follow Jesus.
Dr. Susan Messer has been the Choral Music Director at First Presbyterian Church, Greenville, SC, for five years. Prior positions include public middle school choral director, Fulton County, GA, Apprentice Choir Director for the Houston Children's Chorus, Houston, TX, and Assistant Professor of Music Education at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. She has degrees from Meredith College (BM), NOBTS (MCM), and LSU (Ph.D). Susan and her husband Jeff of 46 years have one daughter, a son-in-law, and two grandchildren who also live in Greenville.

Juda Zion Community Church Choir
Shelly Jordan
The Juda Zion Community Church Choir has a very long history. Our church was created in 1863 and has had a long and cherished tradition of being a very music-filled church, with the adult choir being a strong part of that. For the past 30 years, our choir has provided meaningful Christmas and Easter musicals that highlight the story of Jesus Christ. Shelly Jordan has been privileged to lead them since 2003 and feels that their choir is a special group that feels like family. Shelly is so happy to participate alongside Jean Busker and Carrie Schwartz in this event highlighting Mary McDonald and her beautiful music. What an honor!
The Juda Zion Community Church Choir has been led by Shelly Jordan since 2003. She has been blessed to also continue carrying on the 30-year tradition their church has of providing meaningful Christmas and Easter musicals that highlight the story of Jesus Christ. The church was created in 1863 and has a long and cherished tradition of being a very music-filled church with the adult choir being a strong part of that. She feels that their choir is a special group that feels like family. Shelly is so happy to participate alongside Jean Busker and Carrie Schwartz in this event highlighting Mary McDonald and her beautiful music. What an honor!

Smith River Singers
Dr. Pamela Randall
Smith River Singers is a group of talented, non-audition volunteer singers from the Martinsville & Henry County area. SRS was founded in 2014 by Dr. Pamela Randall with a vision to continue the strong legacy of choral excellence in the community. What started as a small chorus of 20 passionate and committed members has become an ensemble of 80 voices and growing. The SRS serves thousands of audience members annually through highly anticipated concerts and collaborations with area student and professional musicians and orchestra members. The Smith River Singers believe in the power of music to unite and present concerts to the community free of charge, thanks to partners and donors. Smith River Singers presents repertoire that covers a wide variety of choral music from contemporary to classical, sacred, and secular. The entirely volunteer chorus rehearses once weekly under the baton of Dr. Randall and is accompanied by pianist Beth Chapman.
Dr. Pamela Randall is a conductor, singer, author, gardener, quilter, and professor at Longwood University. Pam currently serves as Director of Education Programs through Longwood University in education licensure at New College Institute in Martinsville, VA. She received her Bachelor's degree from Glenville State University, a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford University, and an Ed.S. in Administration from the University of Virginia. She completed her Doctorate in Leadership from Liberty University. Pam studied choral conducting under Dr. Axel Theimer, professor at the College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University in Minnesota and founder/director of the VoiceCare Network. She holds credentials in Kodály and Orff Schulwerk instruction for K-12. The K-12 choirs she has conducted have won numerous awards and have performed internationally and at Carnegie Hall under the direction of John Rutter. Pam returned to her first love, conducting, at the prompting of community musicians, friends, and family. She believes, "everyone should have the opportunity to sing. Singing creates bonds of friendship, collegiality, and a shared sense of community that few other things can replicate."

White Bluff Chapel Choir
Aaron Franklin
White Bluff Chapel is the heart of a resort community on the shores of Lake Whitney, Texas. The choir is comprised of approximately 35 voices joyfully singing God's praises each Sunday and special events throughout the year. The dedicate group members come from all types of choral backgrounds. Some are simply led by God to sing for the first time while others are classically trained. The unity of the group, rejected by the disciplined yet relaxed leadership, result in a sound reflecting the choir's love of music, the love for each other and above all the love for Jesus.
Aaron Franklin, Music and Family Minister, leads the White Bluff Chapel choir in two unique services each Sunday appealing to an interdenominational congregation. He has led choirs over 25 years in churches all over the country. His strong team building and recognizing talent capabilities are reflected when sharing his time with both of his ministries. Aaron graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Masters in Christian Education and a Bachelors in Christian Music. Aaron and his wife, Erin, are proud parents of two sons, Anderson and E.J.

The Sanctuary Choir of First Baptist Sylvester
Bobby R. Boutwell
The First Baptist Church, Sylvester, Georgia, Sanctuary Choir is a volunteer choir of over thirty members who lead in Worship weekly, singing music of various styles. In addition to seasonal programs, the Sanctuary Choir has participated in composer weekends with Heather Sorensen and Mary McDonald and will be hosting Joseph Martin in 2026. This past Easter, the Sanctuary Choir presented the Second Annual Life of Christ Easter Pageant. This multi-performance event had a cast and choir of over ninety on stage.
Reverend Bobby R. Boutwell has been the Minister of Music of First Baptist Sylvester since 2018, having previously served in churches in Tennessee, South Carolina, and Texas before coming to Georgia. Bobby is a native Alabamian holding a Bachelor of Science in Music Education degree from Troy University and a Master of Music degree from Southwestern Theological Seminary. Bobby and his wife Martha recently celebrated forty years of marriage and have three children: Morgan, Micah, and Hunter. It is an honor and a joy for my choir and me to join the other performers on this amazing evening on the stage of the historic Carnegie Hall with Mary McDonald.

Sanctuary Choir, Manchaca United Methodist Church
Mark W. Hixon
The Manchaca United Methodist Church Sanctuary Choir provides musical leadership at the 11:15 a.m. service every Sunday. Consisting strictly of volunteers, the choir performs a variety of music from Classical to Contemporary. The choir performs two major works each year, one during Advent, the other during Holy week. Members of the choir previously sang at Carnegie Hall in the 2019 presentation "Immortal, Invisible: The Music of Pepper Choplin and Mary McDonald."
Mark Hixon discovered the stage at six years old in Arlington, Texas when his siblings’ piano teacher asked him to join them in a performance of “The Trolly Song.” Hixon has sang in choirs and played music ever since. After high school, he earned a degree in Music Education from Texas Wesleyan University. After teaching elementary school for 5 years, Hixon felt a calling to music ministry. He served First UMC in Mesquite, Texas for 7 years. In 2001 he moved to the Austin, Texas area to serve Manchaca UMC where he currently is the Director of Music and Fine Arts. Hixon earned his Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Texas State University in 2015.

Sharp Memorial United Methodist Church Adult Choir
Theresa M. Mayhew
Sharp Memorial UMC adult choir has the most dedicated and loving people. As current music director of the choir, I can say they diligently work on their music and serve their church with a smile. They lead services every Sunday (hymns and anthem). They have also created shows that include theatrical drama & songs. The choir sings for local nursing homes, community caroling, and for special events at the church. This is their second trip to Carnegie (first-2019), with their first trip led by Pam Leslie and now this one led by Terry Mayhew. Their primary focus is to bring glory to God.
Ms. Mayhew completed her piano performance degree at the University of Texas and began her musical career by creating contemporary services in the Lutheran Church. She worked as director for several churches who had both traditional/contemporary services in Texas, Vermont, Georgia, and Wisconsin. She put together and directed a Good Friday program called “In His Footsteps” for the communities. She has also worked as full-time accompanist for a college and part-time accompanist for several large/small choirs. Currently, she is director of music at Sharp Memorial UMC in Young Harris, Georgia, her final position with some great people.

Trinity Lutheran Church Choir
Sarah Yein Kim
The Trinity Lutheran Church Choir, located in Cincinnati, OH, is comprised of dedicated volunteer singers united by a passion for music. The choir plays a vital role in enhancing Sunday services by offering a diverse range of musical selections that uplift and inspire the congregation. Trinity’s excellent music program empowers collaboration with local professional musicians and the students from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Furthermore, the choir strives to reach out to the broader community, sharing the love of Christ through music. Trinity Choir’s past performances, including Christmas Concerts and anthems, can be viewed here: https://www.trinitycincy.org/ChoirVideos
Sarah Yein Kim, a conductor, pianist, organist, and educator, currently serves as the music director of Trinity Lutheran Church. Passionate about choral music, she is dedicated to the revival of choirs, influencing numerous churches, community choirs, and students across the United States and South Korea. Her enthusiasm and leadership extend to her founding of CinKoa, Cincinnati’s premier Korean American Choir, which has enriched the broader musical community. A graduate of both Northwestern University and the Eastman School of Music, she has earned recognition for her exceptional musical talents, receiving prestigious scholarships and awards, including Howard Hansen Scholarships and KASF Award.

First Methodist Church Morehead City Chancel Choir
Philip Cameron Routszong
First Methodist Church is renowned for its vibrant music and arts programs, which play a central role in its community life. With a commitment to enriching worship experiences and fostering creativity, the church offers a diverse range of musical and artistic opportunities. From traditional choral performances and contemporary worship bands to visual art exhibitions and theatrical productions, First Methodist Church provides a dynamic platform for artistic expression. This is the Chancel Choir's first trip to Carnegie under the direction of Mr. Phil Routszong.
Mr. Routszong moved from St. Louis to Eastern NC in 1986 and began his formal music training at age 10. He has been involved in Musical Theatre since he was 16 and went on to study vocal performance and music education during his time at ECU. Phil was the Musical Arranger for the Crystal Coast Jamboree for 10 years and a Studio Musician and Producer for area recording studios for over 12 years. Mr. Routszong was a founding member of Elysian Players, a theatrical nonprofit in Eastern Carolina specializing in arts education. He has had the honor and privilege of being the Director of Music at First Methodist Church for three years.

Knoxville First Cumberland Presbyterian Church Choir
Karen Ware & Sam Ware
The Choir of Knoxville First Cumberland Presbyterian Church is a devoted and talented ensemble of all ages. The Choir is blessed to have so many volunteers with such a strong musical background to lead our congregation in worship each Sunday. Since the establishment of the Church in 1885, the church has been blessed to have very strong music program.
Karen and Sam Ware have been the Directors and Organist at KFCPC since 2005, and it has been their privilege to perform many Mary McDonald compositions with the choir. Before that, they have directed choirs in East Tennessee and Florida, since 1972. Karen and Sam have three daughters and two granddaughters.

Asbury United Methodist Church Chancel Choir, Birmingham, Alabama
Nancy Crocker Beard
The Asbury United Methodist Church Chancel Choir, a diverse group of 50 singers, provides music for weekly Traditional worship and special services during Lent and Advent. Ranging from seasoned soloists to ensemble singers, they perform a variety of styles from classical to gospel. Recent performances include Mary McDonald's Festival of Christmas and This Is Christmas. They are thrilled to be singing her music at Carnegie Hall!
Nancy Crocker Beard has been Director of Music at Asbury United Methodist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, for over 25 years. She is also the organist and conducts the Asbury Ringers handbell choir. A native of Reform, Alabama, she holds a B.A. in Music from Birmingham-Southern College, where she studied Conducting with Hugh Thomas, Voice with Andrew Gainey, and Organ with James Cook, and a M.M. in Vocal Performance from the University of Montevallo, where she studied with Bennie Middaugh.

Morningside Baptist Church Choir (Greenville, SC)

Jeriel Ontoy
The 80-member choir of Morningside Baptist Church (Greenville, SC) rehearses each Sunday morning. They lead the congregation in worship and also present anthems most weeks of the year. Morningside’s music hall named after our longest-serving director, Larry Carrier (1945-2016). Membership is open to all Morningside members and prospective members. Associate pastor Jeriel Ontoy has led the choir since 2020. Our four members are thrilled to spend this weekend presenting "This Is Christmas."
Jeriel was raised in a Christian home where he believed the gospel and fell in love with church music. He served in his local church by accompanying congregational singing, conducting choirs, and organizing music rehearsals. Jeriel views these early years as the foundation for his current ministry. In 2020, Jeriel married his wife Carmel and joined our part-time staff as choir director. After earning an MA in Biblical Studies, Jeriel joined our full-time staff as the associate pastor in May of 2022. Since then, he’s earned an MDiv in Worship and served in our music & administration ministries.

Newton County High School Choir
Emily Massey
The Newton County High School Choir is an award winning choir with a tradition of receiving superior ratings. It has been a part of multiple performances with DCINY including Dan Forrest’s Requiem for the Living conducted by Dr. Jamie Meaders, and Eric Whitacre’s The Sacred Veil conducted by Eric Whitacre.
Emily Massey is currently working on her third year as head director of the Newton County High School Choral. Before, she served as the middle school choral director and feeder program to the Newton County High School Choir for 15 years. Outside of choir, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Kyle, and their two children, Evie and Oliver.

Courthouse Community United Methodist Church Chancel Choir
Donna C. Smith
The Courthouse Community UMC Chancel Choir has been in existence for almost forty years. They have been through many changes, but remain strong. They stand firm in their faith singing always and only for “an audience” of One. While each member has varying years of service, the choir is one family unit who appears to have spent a lifetime together. They know each other’s voices, trust each other in preparation, each is equally dedicated and there is shared love and respect between the director and singers. A singing testament of how hearts and voices can blend as one.
Donna Smith, a graduate of Virginia Wesleyan University with a degree in music, is the Director of Music and Worship at Courthouse Community United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She leads a chancel choir, handbell choir and contemporary praise band. Additionally she teaches a music reading/theory class for adults of all ages at the church. She is also a lyricist and composer. Donna is delighted for the privilege to lead her choir and share in the joy of singing within one of the world’s most inspiring concert halls.

Zanesville Civic Chorus

Ann Lillie Briggs
The Zanesville Civic Chorus is a community chorus that meets from October to December every year to prepare for and perform Handel’s Messiah with the Zanesville Civic Orchestra. This year, 2025, will mark their 96th annual presentation of this beloved oratorio. The Zanesville Civic Chorus has a smaller group, the Chamber Singers, that performs various octavos in the spring for the biannual Bach to Broadway concert or the Thursday Music Club banquet.
Ann Lillie Briggs began directing the Zanesville Civic Chorus in 2021, after serving as 2nd trumpet player, alto section leader, and assistant director for many years under the mentorship of previous director James L. McLaughlin. Mrs. Briggs received her BA in Music Education from Edinboro University of PA, and her masters degree in music with Kodaly emphasis from Capital University. She taught various areas of music for the Tri-Valley Local School District for 30 years before retiring in 2015. She is also the handbell choir director for Grace United Methodist Church in Zanesville, Ohio.

Bethel Baptist Praise Choir
Stephen Jeffery Martone
The Bethel Baptist Praise Choir is composed of dedicated volunteers and members of Bethel Baptist Church in Alamogordo, New Mexico, who joyfully offer their voices in service to the Lord. Each member is committed to growing in musical skill and using their God-given talents to enrich the worship life of the church. Gathering weekly for rehearsal, the choir prepares music that leads the congregation in worship and provides inspiration through both regular services and special events.
Stephen Martone has been directing choirs for over 45 years. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Piano and Vocal Performance, a Master of Music from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and is currently completing a Doctorate in Worship Studies at Liberty University. Throughout his career, he has directed church, community, student, and university choirs. His conviction is that “we sing what we believe,” and he is passionate about seeing the church discipled through the singing of God’s Word—psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.

The Worship Place Choir
John Bell
The Worship Place Choir is an essential element in worship at their church, singing a variety of pieces from stately anthems, modern choral arrangements and great hymn arrangements of our faith. The choir is made up of people with varied denominational backgrounds, but all with hearts full of praise!
John Bell has served as a Worship Pastor since he was a junior in college at East Texas State University. He has served at numerous churches in Texas and is currently on staff at The Worship Place in Georgetown, Texas. The choir there has 90+ members and sings in two worship services weekly. He is a member of The Singing Men of Texas - North Central and has served as their president, audio officer and projection officer. They have traveled to multiple continents on mission trip, most recently on a 12 day trip to the Baltic States.

New Covenant United Methodist Church Chancel Choir
Sean Allen Pollock
The New Covenant Chancel Choir – The Villages, Florida The New Covenant Chancel Choir is a dynamic ensemble of over 100 volunteer singers who rehearse weekly during the academic season and lead worship at New Covenant United Methodist Church in The Villages, Florida. Known for its musical excellence and inspiring performances, the choir presents annual Christmas concerts, the Celebrate America patriotic concert, and special worship services throughout the year. They frequently collaborate with guest artists and instrumental ensembles, performing a wide range of sacred, classical, and theatrical repertoire that reflects their commitment to excellence in music ministry and community engagement.
Sean Pollock – Choral Conductor and Collaborative Pianist Sean Pollock serves as Director of Worship and Music at New Covenant United Methodist Church in The Villages, Florida, where he conducts the 120-voice Chancel Choir and oversees multiple ensembles. He holds a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Arkansas State University and is ABD in Collaborative Piano from the University of Memphis. As a collaborative pianist, he has worked with Mississippi Opera and Arkansas State University, performing in hundreds of recitals and coaching both students and faculty. His performance credits include appearances at Carnegie Hall, Bethlehem Square, and The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center.

Sing for the Cure – Still I Rise

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 60 days before the concert.

Acts

Tim Seelig, Guest Conductor

Sing for the Cure

Rosephanye Powell, Composer/Conductor

Still I Rise: The Music of Rosephanye Powell 

Also Featuring:

Denise Lee, Narrator & Soloist

Traci Elaine Lee, Narrator & Soloist

Participating Groups

Chorus of the Rio Grande Valley

Northwest Women's Chorale, Port Angeles, WA

Center for Creative Arts Women's Ensemble

Auburn University Women's Chorus

Greenville Gay Men's Chorus

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Tim Seelig

Artist's Name

Rosephanye Powell

Artist's Name

Denise Lee

Artist's Name

Traci Elaine Lee

Press & Marketing

Click an item below to expand

Participating Group Directors

Chorus of the Rio Grande Valley
Joel LaMar Cruz
Founded in 2021 by Joel LaMar Cruz, the Chorus of the Rio Grande Valley is a dynamic volunteer ensemble based in South Texas, dedicated to musical excellence, collaboration, and community engagement. Drawing members from nearly 200 communities, the Chorus reflects the Valley’s rich cultural diversity. Each season, it presents four signature concerts—Spotlight On, Comfort & Joy, Masterworks, and Celebrate!—showcasing a wide range of repertoire. Performing in landmark venues and collaborating with regional artists, the Chorus promotes unity, inspiration, and joy through music, fulfilling its mission to nurture local talent and enrich the cultural life of the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.
Joel LaMar Cruz is a South Texas-based conductor, educator, and performing artist with nearly 30 years of experience in theater and choral music. His award-winning ensembles have earned top honors at the State and National levels. A published advocate for contemporary choral repertoire, he has performed with acclaimed ensembles and founded both the Chorus of the Rio Grande Valley and the Children's Chorus of the Rio Grande Valley. Cruz holds degrees from UT–Pan American and Winthrop University and is an active member of TTAO, TMAA, TMEA, TCDA, and ACDA. His honors include the Bell Award, Apple Award, and Texas Master Teacher designation.

Northwest Women's Chorale, Port Angeles, WA
Joy A. Lingerfelt
The Northwest Women's Chorale has been singing harmony into the hearts and lives of others since its founding in 2006. Our ensemble’s strength is our blending, but our unison is incredibly strong, exacting and powerful. The choral repertoire varies widely across sacred and secular works, both a cappella and with piano accompaniment.
Joy A. Lingerfelt is the founding director of NorthWest Women’s Chorale, starting the group in 2006. With advanced Music degrees from Southern Illinois University and Pacific Lutheran University, she is also a Deacon in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. While living in Tennessee, she directed the Bartlett Community Chorus and Cumberland Presbyterian Choral Society, and toured with the Rhodes Mastersingers in Memphis. Ms. Lingerfelt served as chorus master in establishing the Port Angeles Symphony Chorus. A member of the American Choral Director’s Association, Ms. Lingerfelt is always on the lookout for innovative, well-crafted music that resonates both with the soul and the intellect. That, along with a distinct passion for exploring distant lands.

Center for Creative Arts Women's Ensemble
Neshawn Calloway
Center for Creative Arts Women's Ensemble is an auditioned goup of talented treble voices. This group participates regularly in local and state festivals where they consistently score superior ratings. The students in this emsemble are also participants in regional and state honor choirs.
Neshawn Calloway is in her 25th year as Vocal Music Director at Center for Creative Arts (CCA) where she conducts six vocal ensembles. Her vocal ensembles consistently score superior ratings at regional, state and national festivals and her students consistently place in regional and state honor choirs. In 2020 and 2025 Neshawn was recognized by the CMA (Country Music Association) Foundation as a music teacher of excellence. As a performer she sings with a neo-soul band as well performing in various venues and churches throughout the Chattanooga area. Neshawn and her students have travelled and performed for audiences in Germany as well as various festivals in the US.

Auburn University Women's Chorus
Dr. Rosephanye Powell
The Auburn University Women’s Chorus is conducted by Dr. Rosephanye Powell who also serves as Coordinator of Voice Studies. They sing a wide range of standard literature for women’s voices, embracing both classical and contemporary works. Rehearsing three days per week, the ensemble cultivates musical excellence and camaraderie among its members. Each Friday, the Women’s Chorus joins with the Men’s Chorus to form the Auburn University Concert Choir, offering students a broader choral experience through mixed-voice repertoire. Open to students from all academic backgrounds, the Women’s Chorus provides a thriving environment for vocal development, artistic expression, and community engagement.
included w/composer-conductor-in-residence information

Greenville Gay Men's Chorus

Jared Fricks
Founded in 2011, the Greenville Gay Men’s Chorus is a 35-member auditioned TTBB ensemble that celebrates music’s power to unite and uplift. Based in Greenville, SC, and led by Artistic Director Jared Fricks with accompanist Ted Munn, GGMC presents two mainstage concerts each year along with special projects such as Sing For The Cure. Recent highlights include sharing the stage with the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and a powerful production of When We No Longer Touch. With every performance, GGMC strives to build community, foster compassion, and inspire activism through song. Learn more at greenvillegaymenschorus.com.
Jared Fricks has been teaching choir for twelve years and is currently the choral director at Palmetto High School in Williamston, SC. He graduated summa cum laude from Southern Wesleyan University in 2013 with a B.A. in Music Education. In addition to teaching, Jared is the pianist and music director at Faith Presbyterian Church in Williamston, SC. He also provides musical direction for theatre productions across Upstate SC. In 2025, Jared was named Artistic Director of the Greenville Gay Men's Chorus in Greenville, SC collaborating with Ted Munn as Assistant Artistic Director and accompanist.

SOLAS: Foundations of Faith

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 90 days before the concert.

Acts

Heather Sorenson, Composer/Conductor

Sorenson: SOLAS (Carnegie Hall Premiere) 

Kevin Klotz, Guest Conductor

Sorenson: Requiem

Also Featuring:

Heather Lake Bays, Soloist

Layke Jones, Soloist

Participating Groups

St. Angela Merici Chancel Choir

Colonial Park United Church of Christ Sanctuary Choir

Greenville Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir

Holy Spirit Lutheran Church

South Sub Church Choir

Maple Ridge Choral Society

Lynn Valley Voices

St. Peter's Lutheran Church

Smyrna First United Methodist Church Music Ministry

Memorial Lutheran Church Choir

The Chapelwood United Methodist Choir

First United Methodist Church Waynesville Chancel Choir

Haywood Choral Society

Houston Choral Society

Whitewater, WI First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir

Pensacola Christian College Chamber Ensemble

First Church Coral Springs Choir

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Heather Sorenson

Artist's Name

Kevin Klotz

Artist's Name

Heather Lake Bays

Artist's Name

Layke Jones

Press & Marketing

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Participating Group Directors

St. Angela Merici Chancel Choir
Joshua Sarmiento
The St. Angela Merici Chancel Choir is a volunteer choir that serves the communities of Missouri City Texas. Being from one of the most diverse districts in Texas, the St. Angela Merici Catholic Church community and choir boasts a wealth of diverse cultures and backgrounds. Co-directed by Joshua Sarmiento and Matthew Sarmiento this group was rebuilt from the ground up after COVID into a tight knit group of members whose shared love of music and excellence has created a tradition of community and artistry for the parish.
Joshua Sarmiento has taught for 5 years as the assistant choir director at First Colony Middle School in Fort Bend ISD. He is also active at St. Angela Merici Catholic Church in Missouri City, where he started as the assistant director of music in 2018, before becoming the Co-Director of Music in December 2020. During his time at First Colony he has had the honor of conducting an honor choir for TMEA in 2023 and having a honor choir for SWACDA in 2026.

Colonial Park United Church of Christ Sanctuary Choir
Rev. Scott Siciliano
Under the direction of Rev. Scott Siciliano, the CPUCC Sanctuary Choir is a volunteer 20+ member vocal ensemble of adults and high school students that serve weekly in worship through leading congregational singing and the preparation of moving choral anthems in a full range of genres and styles.
Rev. Scott Siciliano joined the staff of Colonial Park UCC in 2008. As a skilled musician, liturgical artist, and ordained minister, Rev. Scott's work and mission is to enrich the life and worship of the community through the creative joining of music and the senses with scripture and religious tradition to enrich and deepen faith and worship. Scott is also a nationally recognized composer and arranger. www.scottsiciliano.com

Greenville Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church Chancel Choir
Thomas James Ellis
The Greenville Associate Reformed Presbyterian (A.R.P.) Church Chancel Choir has served as the primary choir of the music ministry, glorifying God in weekly worship services for over 110 years in Greenville, South Carolina. Comprised of around 30 talented volunteer singers, the choir includes professional musicians, teachers, doctors, lawyers, architects, engineers, accountants, and retirees. The Chancel Choir presents a yearly Service of Lessons & Carols during Advent and music during Holy Week. The Chancel Choir is conducted by T. J. Ellis and accompanied by David Coleman.
Thomas James "T. J." Ellis has served as the Director of Music at Greenville ARP Church since 2012. He is a 2007 graduate of Erskine College and earned a Master's degree in Choral Conducting from Winthrop University in 2009. He sings with the Rivertree Singers, a community choir in Greenville, South Carolina.

Holy Spirit Lutheran Church
Justin Joseph Wham
The Holy Spirit Lutheran choir is a multi-generational volunteer group of like-minded musicians on every skill level. The choir leads worship services each week for our Sunday services and participates in other vocal performances within the community throughout the year in Charleston, SC.
Justin is currently the Director of Music, Organist and Director of Fine Arts for Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Charleston, SC where he presides over the Chancel Choir, Youth and Children's Choirs, Adult and Youth English Handbell Choirs as well as a Summer Choir and Instrumental Ensembles. In 2020, he established the Holy Spirit in Harmony Concert Series bringing local and national talent to the area each year. Justin also founded the Lowcountry Lutheran Choir that combines approximately 100 voices from all over the Lowcountry for a large ecumenical service every year involving symphony musicians and clergy from participating churches.

South Sub Church Choir
Dr. Stuart Dameron
The South Sub Choir is a dynamic, engaging, and rewarding community within Littleton, Colorado that comes from a decades-long tradition of fellowship, service, and ministry. The music they perform encompasses a wide range of styles, including classical, jazz, gospel, praise & worship and many more. The mission of South Sub Church is to bring people to Jesus Christ and together become more passionate followers of Him.
Dr. Stuart Dameron, a native of Denver, Colorado, is a regularly sought-after conductor, director, clinician, vocal instructor, music educator, and performer. He earned his Doctor of Music Arts in Choral Conducting from Louisiana State University, studying under Dr. John Dickson, Dr. Trey Davis, and Prof. David Hill of Yale Schola Cantorum and the London Bach Choir. Stuart earned both his Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and his Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from Colorado State University, studying under Dr. James Kim. Prior to his doctoral studies, Stuart served on the faculty at Colorado State University. Dr. Dameron has directed and toured with choirs around the world, including England, South Korea, Germany and the Czech Republic.

Maple Ridge Choral Society
Frank Zieginson
Founded in 1933, the Maple Ridge Choral Society is the oldest and largest secular community choir for adults in Maple Ridge, BC, Canada. We are an inclusive organization that reflects the diversity of Maple Ridge and surrounding communities. The 70 members of our non-audition four-part mixed choir range widely in age, but we have one thing in common—we love to sing! We perform concerts twice a year and enjoy giving back to our community through performances whenever the opportunity arises. We are thrilled to be participating in this once in a lifetime opportunity!
Canadian pianist Frank Zieginson is sought after as both performer and music educator, currently making his home in Vancouver, BC. Since coming to the piano at the age of eighteen, Frank has established himself as a dynamic and versatile artist, known for his creative programming be it for solo piano, art song, chamber music, or choral music. In addition to his work as a musician and educator, Frank also serves as the Minister of Music at Lynn Valley United Church, North Vancouver, Artistic Director of Lynn Valley Voices, The Rainbow Chorus of New Westminster & the Maple Ridge Chorus.

Lynn Valley Voices
Frank Zieginson
LVV is a non-auditioned, and affirming choral group open to anyone with a passion for singing and a desire for sharing that passion through singing in an ensemble. Performing a variety of musical styles from around the globe, Lynn Valley Voices repertoire focuses on universal themes of compassion, beauty, inclusivity, harmony, and humour and draws on the wisdom of world music representing many cultures and traditions.
Canadian pianist Frank Zieginson is sought after as both performer and music educator, currently making his home in Vancouver, BC. Since coming to the piano at the age of eighteen, Frank has established himself as a dynamic and versatile artist, known for his creative programming be it for solo piano, art song, chamber music, or choral music. In addition to his work as a musician and educator, Frank is also serves as the Minister of Music at Lynn Valley United Church, North Vancouver, Artistic Director of Lynn Valley Voices, The Rainbow Chorus of New Westminster & the Maple Ridge Chorus.

St. Peter's Lutheran Church
Olivia Cheesman
The St. Peter’s Choir is a vibrant, welcoming community of singers who lead worship through music that inspires and uplifts. Open to all who love to sing, the choir blends a variety of styles — from traditional hymns to contemporary arrangements — to share God’s Word through song. With a commitment to excellence, fellowship, and joyful praise, the choir plays a vital role in creating meaningful worship experiences for the congregation. Rehearsals are filled with laughter, learning, and a shared love for glorifying God through music.
Olivia Cheesman serves as Music & Media Director at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, where she directs the adult choir, plans worship music, and helps create meaningful, Spirit-filled services. She is passionate about fostering a welcoming, collaborative environment where singers grow in both musical skill and faith. In addition to leading music, Olivia manages the church’s media and communications, ensuring St. Peter’s message reaches the wider community. Known for her creativity and heart for ministry, she believes music is a powerful way to connect people to God’s love.

Smyrna First United Methodist Church Music Ministry
Kim Duggins
The Music Ministry of Smyrna First United Methodist Church in Smyrna, Georgia, under the leadership of Mrs. Kim Duggins, Director of Music and Fine Arts, is honored to return for its fourth concert with DCINY, performing at both Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. This special performance will feature the adult choirs, NewPraise and Cornerstone, along with selected singers from the youth choir, God’s Light. Over the years, these ensembles have performed at the 1996 Olympic Games festivities, sung the National Anthem for the Atlanta Braves for two decades, and participated in notable events such as the JW Pepper Church Music Worship with Heather Sorenson and the Music Atlanta Church Music Conference. Welcoming vocalists of all skill levels, the Smyrna FUMC Music Ministry celebrates the joy of worship through music and is delighted to once again sing under the direction of Ms. Sorenson.
Kim Duggins, Director of Music and Fine Arts at Smyrna First United Methodist Church in Georgia, is nationally recognized for developing thriving youth and contemporary Christian choirs that have performed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and across North America. Her choirs, open to all without auditions or prior experience, foster community connection and musical growth. With over 40 years in music education and church music, she is a sought-after clinician and guest conductor. One of her greatest strengths is inspiring choir members to embrace their talents and use them to honor God. A skilled French horn player and private instructor, her students often earn honors such as All-State selection. She holds a B.S. in Instrumental Music from Tennessee Technological University, continues professional development through church music conferences, and lives in Mableton, Georgia, with her husband Jeff and their two musician sons, Thomas and Andrew.

The Chapelwood United Methodist Choir
Cameron Cody
The Chapelwood United Methodist Church Chancel Choir, based in Houston, Texas, is a distinguished ensemble known for its artistry, versatility, and passionate commitment to worship. Under the leadership of Director of Music and Organist Cameron Cody, the choir leads weekly services, presents major concerts, and tours nationally and internationally. Their repertoire spans sacred masterworks, contemporary anthems, and collaborative performances with orchestras and guest artists. With a worldwide following through social media and nearly one million combined views, the choir’s ministry extends far beyond its sanctuary. At Carnegie Hall, they perform the Carnegie Hall premiere of SOLAS by Heather Sorenson, commissioned to honor Cody’s ten years at Chapelwood.
Cameron Cody is a celebrated concert pianist, vocalist, and Director of Music & Organist at Chapelwood United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas. Known for his dynamic artistry and warm stage presence, he performs 10–15 concerts annually across the United States. His performances—spanning sacred works to timeless classics—have reached millions through live appearances and viral social media. Endorsed by Shigeru Kawai, he performs exclusively on the SK7 and has collaborated with acclaimed ensembles and composers. Returning to Carnegie Hall, Cody appears as pianist for the world premiere of SOLAS by Heather Sorenson, commissioned to celebrate his decade of leadership at Chapelwood.

First United Methodist Church Waynesville Chancel Choir

Donald R. Kirkindoll

First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir, Waynesville, North Carolina The FUMC Waynesville Chancel Choir is an integral part of the church’s worship life. Located in the mountains of western North Carolina, FUMC Waynesville has long been an advocate for the community and a center for musical excellence. The Chancel Choir consistently presents outstanding music for sanctuary worship, adhering to high musical standards with a heart for service, and always seeking to glorify God, illuminate scripture, and edify God’s people. We are grateful for the opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall with other wonderful choirs.

Donald R. Kirkindoll Director of Music and Worship Arts, First United Methodist Church, Waynesville, North Carolina; Director, Haywood Choral Society. Choirs under his direction have performed at Walt Disney World, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and cathedrals throughout the UK. He has performed as a vocalist at the White House, Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center, and in concerts in Europe, South Africa, and throughout the southeastern United States. Bachelor of Music, Vocal Performance, Centenary College of Louisiana; Master of Music, Conducting, University of South Carolina. Pursuing Doctor of Pastoral Music, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University.

Haywood Choral Society

Donald R. Kirkindoll

The Haywood Choral Society is a premier choral ensemble in western North Carolina. Consisting of around 70 volunteer singers, HCS performs high-level community choir and collegiate music of the past and present in two thematically based concerts per season. This concert is the Choral Society’s first performance at Carnegie Hall. We are grateful for this opportunity to sing with other excellent choirs and share the joy of choral music with the audience

Donald R. Kirkindoll Director of Music and Worship Arts, First United Methodist Church, Waynesville, North Carolina; Director, Haywood Choral Society. Choirs under his direction have performed at Walt Disney World, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and cathedrals throughout the UK. He has performed as a vocalist at the White House, Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center, and in concerts in Europe, South Africa, and throughout the southeastern United States. Bachelor of Music, Vocal Performance, Centenary College of Louisiana; Master of Music, Conducting, University of South Carolina. Pursuing Doctor of Pastoral Music, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University.

Houston Choral Society
Dr. Kevin Klotz

Houston Choral Society (HCS) under the direction of Dr. Kevin Klotz is a professional-quality civic chorus whose mission is serving the greater Houston area by presenting outstanding choral works that enrich the soul and advances the choral arts to Houston area audiences and beyond. HCS and friends from St. Laurence Catholic Church have travelled to Germany, Italy and Ireland to bring beautiful and stirring music, including international premier performances of music commissioned by this group.

Dr. Kevin M. Klotz earned his Doctor of Musical Arts degree and his Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting from the University of Houston's Moores School of Music. He received his Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance from Houston Christian University. Dr. Klotz is in his tenth year as Artistic Director/Conductor of the Houston Choral Society. Under his leadership, the ensemble has grown to nearly 100 singers and performs a variety of repertoire, often in collaboration with orchestra. Dr. Klotz also holds the position of Director of Choral Activities/Assistant Professor of Music at Houston Christian University. At HCU, he conducts the Schola Cantorum and University Singers ensembles and teaches conducting, music history, and piano. Since 1999, Dr. Klotz has served as Music Minister at St. Laurence Catholic Church where he directs the choirs for three Sunday Masses. In 2018, Dr. Klotz conducted at Carnegie Hall, leading a large choir of 100 members from the Houston Choral Society and the St. Laurence Catholic Church Music Ministry in a grand performance of Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass. He is thrilled to be back at Carnegie Hall tonight to perform Heather Sorenson’s Requiem!

Whitewater, WI First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir
Christine C. Hayes
The Whitewater FUMC Chancel Choir is comprised of singers from high school/university to those in their 80's. Multigenerational Fellowship is a gift as we celebrate lifetime milestones for all. We dedicate our voices to worship with anthems of many genres, present cantatas yearly, ranging from Schubert and Britten to Sorenson and accompanied by talented UW-Whitewater musicians, and perform community concerts. Our volunteer choir is 26 with additional voices from sister churches for cantatas. Our talented Director of Music is a master of Organ/Piano, James R. Athas, celebrating his 50th year at FUMC. Our inspiring minister is The Rev. Clarissa Martinelli.
Christine C. Hayes has led the Whitewater, WI FUMC Chancel Choir for 34 years, where the spirituality of worship is heightened through fellowship, beautiful anthems and numerous cantatas with full orchestra. Hayes retired from a full career of teaching public school music and currently is an Adjunct Instructor of Music Education at UW-Whitewater. Recognitions include: WCDA Outstanding Church Musician, WMEA Distinguished Service Award, WI Award for Excellence in Music Education, 2007 WI Teacher of the Year, National Council for General Music Education Chair, & WMEA President. Having studied in Ghana, Christine leads world drumming circles for Whitewater youth and community.

Pensacola Christian College Chamber Ensemble

Dr. Cléusia Gonçalves
Pensacola Christian College's Chamber Ensemble, a small choir of gifted singers, was formed in 1991. They frequently perform for concerts, church programs, and conferences. Their repertoire consists of sacred and Classical selections including masterworks such as Handel's Messiah, Poulenc's Gloria, Haydn's Te Deum, Bach's Magnificat, and Mendelssohn's Elijah. Since 2015, Dr. Cléusia Gonçalves has served as the music director of this elite ensemble. PCC's Chamber Ensemble is returning to Carnegie Hall and is excited to join Ms. Sorenson again for this premiere of SOLAS.
Dr. Cléusia Gonçalves was born in Brazil. She has a bachelor's degree in choral and orchestral conducting from the State University of Campinas (Unicamp), a master's degree in vocal performance from Pensacola Christian College, and a D.M.A. in conducting from Louisiana State University. Cléusia has served on PCC's music faculty since 2001 and has been the director of Campus Church Rejoice Choir since 2021. She is frequently invited to perform and teach for workshops and music festivals in the U.S. and Brazil.

First Church Coral Springs Choir

Monica Berovides-Hidalgo
First Church Choral Springs Choir is a vibrant part of our worship life, lifting hearts and voices in praise each month. With a blend of traditional and contemporary sacred music, the choir seeks to glorify God and inspire the congregation through song. Open to all who have a passion for singing, the choir provides a welcoming community where music and ministry come together. From Sunday services to cantatas, the choir enriches the spiritual life of First Church Coral Springs and beyond, sharing the gift of music as an expression of faith, fellowship, and joy.
Monica Berovides-Hidalgo, mezzo-soprano, is Director of Worship at First United Methodist Church of Coral Springs and adjunct professor of voice at Florida Atlantic University. She is assistant conductor and artist in residence with Schola Cantorum of Florida and director of the SCOF Music Academy. She is Music Director with Torch and Trumpet Theater Company and has performed and recorded throughout the United States with experience in cross-over styles including opera, musical theater, art song, Contemporary Commercial Music, Contemporary and Traditional Christian music and Latin American popular songs. She is an active coach, clinician, and private voice instructor.

Total Vocal with Deke Sharon: 10th Anniversary

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 60 days before the concert.

Acts

Deke Sharon, Conductor and Creative Director

Total Vocal Act One

Also Featuring:

Shelley Regner, Special Guest Artist

Backtrack Vocals, Special Guest Artist

Participating Groups

A.K.A. Crescendo

SoundCrowd

Nashville Community High School Senior Jazz Choir

The Overtones

Williston High School Vocal Jazz

Ram Voices of Hillcrest High

Baton Rouge Chorus of Sweet Adelines, International

Lakehouse Music Academy Singers

Keiki Kani Choir

Pop Chorus

My Pop Choir Canada

Googapella

Affinity Female Voice Choir

Squad Harmonix

Revv52

Vocal Synergy

Vocal Academy@ St. James

The Iona University NightinGAELs

Purple Reign

RJR A Cappella

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Deke Sharon

Artist's Name

Shelley Regner

Artist's Name

Backtrack Vocals

Press & Marketing

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Participating Group Directors

A.K.A. Crescendo

Matea Biloglav
A.K.A. Crescendo is Croatia’s leading contemporary a cappella group, founded 13 years ago as the country’s first student a cappella ensemble. Over the years, they have grown into a renowned vocal group, performing worldwide in the USA, Canada, and across Europe. Known for their dynamic arrangements and performances, A.K.A. Crescendo blends diverse styles, incorporating choreography and beatboxing. They have competed in international a cappella competitions, earning awards for their creativity and vocal excellence. As organizers of CROappella, Croatia’s first contemporary a cappella festival, they continue to inspire and elevate the a cappella scene in their country and beyond.
Matea Biloglav is a passionate musician, educator, and founding member of Croatia’s leading a cappella group, A.K.A. Crescendo, which she has led for 13 years. With a master’s degree in pedagogy, she combines her expertise in education and music, working at music school and also mentoring vocalists, vocal groups and ensambles. Matea is the creative director of CROappella, Croatia’s first contemporary a cappella festival, and president of a nonprofit organization promoting a cappella singing. Known for her dynamic leadership, she has brought A.K.A. Crescendo to global stages, including Carnegie Hall, blending artistry, creativity, and community in her work.

SoundCrowd

Scott Pietrangelo
SoundCrowd is Toronto’s first large-scale contemporary a cappella ensemble led by Founder and Artistic Director Scott Pietrangelo. Since their first performance backing up former Barenaked Ladies front man Steven Page in concert, they have since repeatedly sold out concerts in Toronto each year, appeared at Carnegie Hall with Total Vocal in 2017, opened for Disney’s a cappella sensation, DCappella, appeared as special surprise guests on the Canadian national talk show, “The Social,” and launched their first album, “All Voice, No Limits” in May of 2023. For more info, visit soundcrowd.ca or find us on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter).
Scott Pietrangelo is the Founder/Artistic Director of SoundCrowd, celebrating its 9th year and 2nd appearance at Total Vocal. He has been a Toronto-based performer for two decades, having appeared across Canada in such shows as Dear Evan Hansen, The Secret Garden, Songs for a New World, The Last Five Years (BroadwayWorld Award Nomination – Best Actor) and Murder for Two. His music directing credits include productions of Rent, The Rocky Horror Show, Beauty and the Beast, Fiddler on the Roof and more. Scott sends his sincere gratitude to Deke for the support he’s shown this wonderful ensemble since its inception.

Nashville Community High School Senior Jazz Choir

Steve Browne
The high school offers marching band, jazz band, percussion ensemble, concert choir, madrigal choir, jazz choir, voice class, steel pan ensemble, Tri M, and a guitar class called pop music. The concert band, concert choir, voice class, and pop music class meet every day during the school week for 52 minutes a day. All other ensembles are extra-curricular and meet before or after school. In the past 18 years, the music program has performed in numerous community events, parties, and festivals. The band and choir are a sought after group in our community with a busy schedule throughout the year. They regularly perform for private parties, community gatherings, and community events. All ensembles compete at local festivals and competitions. The choir, percussion ensemble, and jazz band have been featured on stage at Southern Illinois University alongside the university’s ensembles. The program is consistently well represented at the district ILMEA festival, and has had students selected for both the All-State and Honors Choirs for the last 18 years. The program has four formal concerts a year for our community and has also performed at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Quincy Market in Boston, and the Statue of Liberty in New York. In 2014, the concert band made its first ever appearance at the Illinois Music Educators Conference (IMEC) as a featured group and played in Carnegie Hall in 2016, and 2022. The choir performed at IMEC in 2018, Carnegie Hall in 2022 and will perform once again in 2025.
Mr. Steve Browne has taught the last 17 years of his 21 year teaching career at Nashville Community High School. Mr. Browne has an undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, and a Masters in Music Education from the University of Florida. Mr. Browne is a National Board Certified teacher in Early Adolescence through Young Adulthood in Band. Mr. Browne has been the guest conductor for multiple High Band and Jazz Band Festivals and has helped with high school choir clinics at Southern Illinois University. He currently enjoys playing drums for a jazz band and a cover band, mandolin in a bluegrass band, plays in the Nashville St. Paul UCC praise band, and sings in the choir. He has also served District 6 as band chair for the ILMEA District Festival, choral judge, and percussion judge. The NCHS Mixed Choir has sung at Carnegie Hall in 2022, Walt Disney World in 2018 and 2023, and were a featured performer at the Illinois Music Educators Convention in 2018 and 2024. Mr. Browne operates his own free website dedicated to helping young drummers play in their school jazz band. Steve has been married to Jamie Browne for 24 years with two children, Murray State Music Major, Trent and NCHS junior, Addison.

The Overtones

Brandon Pemberton
The Barrington High School Overtones are in their fourth year of performing and competing. These are the top 18 voices from Barrington High School who enjoy performing for audiences throughout not only the Barrington community, but for people all over the country.
Brandon Pemberton earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Choral Music Education from the University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, a Master of Music Education degree from Florida State University, and a Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership.  Pemberton serves as the Director of Choirs at Barrington High School. His position includes conducting five curricular choirs, overseeing five a cappella groups, directing a multi-tiered madrigal program, directing the Freshman Spotlight production, and serving as the Vocal Director of the musical. Pemberton recently received the Outstanding Educator award from the University of Chicago. In 2024, The Barrington High School Chamber Choir was selected to perform at the Illinois Music Education Conference.

Williston High School Vocal Jazz

Katie Rooke
Williston High School Vocal Jazz students must audition for this ensemble. These students are also involved in another choir at WHS. They perform around the community singing carols at Christmastime and delivering singing Valegrams for Valentine's Day. Every year they participate in the University of Mary Jazz Festival and receive excellent ratings from professional jazz musicians.
Katie Rooke has been the director at Williston High School for the past 16 years. She directs 4 choirs of students grades 9-12 plus Varsity and JV vocal jazz ensembles. The Williston High School Chorale was selected as the North Dakota Governor's Choir for the 23-24 school year. Mrs. Rooke is also the vocal coach for the musicals put on by the drama department.

Ram Voices of Hillcrest High

Holly Traynham Hill
The Ram Voices of Hillcrest is comprised of sixty voices. We also have forty-eight in the beginning choir. We participated in the Carowinds Music Festival, Music in Our Schools Festival, and Performance Assessments where the students achieved superior and excellent ratings. They perform several concerts at the school including winter and spring performances, singing at sporting events, community events, Veteran’s Day programs, Christmas events, Black History Month assemblies and more. The Ram Voices has twelve students to represent in the District Honors Choir for Greenville County and eleven students to represent in the Region Choir for the western part of the state. We have also had students to represent Hillcrest High at the All-State Chorus at Winthrop University. Our chorus was chosen to participate in NYC at the DCINY event at Carnegie Hall in 2023. We had thirty-two students to represent South Carolina in this premiere under the direction of Mack Wilberg. The HHS Choral and Theater Department held the production of “Freaky Friday” in April of this past school year. Mrs. Hill is so proud of all of the accomplishments of these students.
Holly Traynham Hill, Choral Director at Hillcrest High School, graduated in 1998 with a BA in Music Education from North Greenville College (presently North Greenville University). She currently serves on the Music Alumni Association at North Greenville. She has been at Hillcrest for four years and is a member of SCMEA. Mrs. Hill has also taught at Bryson and Ralph Chandler Middle School. Mrs. Hill proudly served as Ralph Chandler Teacher of the Year in 2020-2021, Bryson Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2004-2005 and is a recipient of the “Who’s Who among American Teachers’ Award for 2003, 2004, and 2005. Mrs. Hill has had three separate groups to perform in a DCINY performance at Carnegie Hall.Mrs. Hill is blessed to have such an energetic and talented group of fine students and a supportive family who motivates and encourages her daily. She is honored to have her chorus participate in this event, and it is with great anticipation to hear them perform.

Baton Rouge Chorus of Sweet Adelines, International

Sherry Barron
The Baton Rouge Chorus of Sweet Adelines International, chartered in 1960, is a celebrated Baton Rouge, LA ensemble. Directed by Sherry Barron, this all-female group excels in a cappella, four-part barbershop harmony. With 27 talented members, they are part of Region 10, (MS, AL, LA, and south TX). Over their 64-year history, they have garnered numerous regional awards, including Most Entertaining Chorus. Known for their captivating performances, they have graced the stage of the Sweet Adeline International competition, delighting audiences with harmonious melodies. The chorus continues to inspire and entertain, upholding rich traditions of musical excellence, education, and community involvement.
Sherry Barron, esteemed music educator with 40+ years experience, is the Director of the Baton Rouge Chorus of Sweet Adelines and the founder of the Academy for Cultivating Creative Arts LLC. Obtaining her Music Education degree from Louisiana State University, she also holds certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. A passionate advocate for music education, she co-founded The Baton Rouge Homeschool Choirs and directs various arts initiatives. Sherry’s dedication to cultivating talent is evident through her work with children and adults, believing that music nurtures creativity and intelligence. Sherry aspires to inspire and empower the next generation.

Lakehouse Music Academy Singers

Mary Louisa Jodry
The Lakehouse Music Academy Singers are top-tier students from Lakehouse Music Academy, a progressive learning community preparing students to engage in an artistic landscape with learning tracks in instrumental and vocal performance, songwriting, and production. Along with the Asbury Park Music Foundation, the Academy serves students from their Asbury Park and Red Bank locations and in K-12 programs across Monmouth County by providing students of all ages with unparalleled opportunities to study privately and participate in one of over 60 ensembles. Their “Stripes” curriculum and faculty have been recognized by world-renowned artists, have launched the recording and performance careers of numerous students, and have prepared the Academy’s Singers to perform in venues along the Jersey Shore and across the region.
Mary Louisa Jodry is a proud instructor of voice and piano at Lakehouse Music Academy. She has recently begun her journey in music education and is grateful to be directing the talented group of students who make up the Lakehouse Music Academy Singers. For fifteen years she has studied both classical and musical theater vocal techniques. Mary has always had a love for choral music which led to her becoming the choral manager and a soloist in her university’s chamber choir. She hopes to encourage her students to find no limit in their creative journeys and continuously grow their artistry.

Keiki Kani Choir

Camilla Corpuz Yamamoto
For over 30 years, the KEIKI KANI CHOIR has served Hawaii as a community performing group composed of students, working adults, and retirees from Oahu, Hawaii. The KEIKI KANI CHOIR has performed at many events (including radio and television shows) and have been featured in professional audio and video recordings since 1991. We were honored to sing for the Harlem Globetrotters in 2017 and made our Carnegie Hall debut with "Total Vocal" in 2022. A year later, we were happy to open DCINY's "Total Vocal 2023" with our acapella hula, "E Ku'ulei". KEIKI KANI is looking forward to again bring the spirit of ALOHA to the Big Apple. Mahalo Nui Loa (thank you very much), DCINY and Deke Sharon, for including KEIKI KANI CHOIR in Total Vocal 2025.
CAMILLA CORPUZ YAMAMOTO has directed the Keiki Kani Choir for over 30 years. Camilla founded her private Keiki Kani Music Studio in 1990, teaching piano, choir, voice, and general music. Camilla's work includes music specialist for the Hawaii Public Schools system and local private schools for over 20 years. She has directed numerous school productions, with up to 700 singers and actors in any given show. She served the teaching community in many local professional music educator associations, including volunteering as Executive Director for the Hawaii Music Educators Association (National Association for Music Educators) for many years. Raised in a musical home, Camilla began her music career at age 11 as church accompanist and Worship Team member. Keiki Kani and music education is her love-work, and she feels blessed that her vocation is her avocation.

Pop Chorus

Yula Andrews
Formed in 2012, Pop Chorus has over 400 singers in Suffolk, England, across 7 friendly and fun groups. They unashamedly sing great pop songs in harmony, from Adele to Johnny Cash. The choir love to perform around East Anglia, whether it’s a local school or Latitude Festival. Pop Chorus are known for bringing the party wherever they go, and their infectious enthusiasm makes their performances a joy to experience. With a strong ethos of inclusivity, kindness and generosity, the choir have raised over £60,000 for local charities and work tirelessly in their local communities to promote wellbeing through music.
Classically trained, and with a wealth of experience, Yula’s voice crosses genres effortlessly. Her theatricality, and belief that the voice is the most versatile of instruments, has taken her from singing opera in Harrods to session work; via jazz, folk, cover-bands, contemporary dance and ABBA tributes! She has a love of harmony, having sung in small ensembles forever, and even the BBC Symphony Chorus. Yula founded Pop Chorus in 2012 and also leads wellbeing singing sessions for a diverse range of people, including those with dementia. She basically lives to spread the joy of singing together, and under her warm and enthusiastic leadership, any group of people can become a choir!

My Pop Choir Canada
Iain Stewart & Alex Fiddes
My Pop Choir is a Toronto, Canada based group of community-based choirs. Since 2011, it's where the joy of music and the power of community come together in perfect harmony. Our story began with a simple yet profound idea: to create an adult community pop/rock choir where the love for music and singing knows no bounds. With a passion for providing a pressure-free environment, My Pop Choir offers a sanctuary for individuals, regardless of their musical background, to come together and let their voices shine.
Iain Stewart - Iain is a multi-hyphenate artist/educator who was lucky, as a young person, to learn under the late, great Jim Sparks, who gave him his life long love for choral music at the Langley Fine Arts School. Iain studied vocal jazz at Capilano University and musical theatre at Sheridan College. He conducts three choirs for MPC and is opening his own location this year. Iain is also an actor having recently led the film ‘Mother, Father, Sister, Brother, Frank’ with Enrico Colantoni and Mindy Cohn. Alex Fiddes - Alex Fiddes joined My Pop Choir in 2014 as a Choir Director. He was inspired by the transformative impact of music on individuals. He took the reins in 2019 motivated by the life-changing experiences of countless members, he has continued to nurture a thriving community of music enthusiasts taking MPC to the next level!

Googapella

Divya Mouli Jacobson
Googapella is an employee a cappella group at Google’s headquarters in the California Bay Area. Founded in 2012, Googapella brings passionate singers together to continue their love for a cappella in the post-collegiate world. They rehearse weekly and perform for fellow Google teams, at holiday parties, and at our favorite showcase, Techapella.org! Check them out on YouTube.
Divya is a Software Engineer at Google and has been a member of Googapella since 2016, stepping into her role as Music Director in 2021. Prior to joining Googapella, Divya was a member of the Soundbytes a cappella group at Carnegie Mellon University where she received a Bachelors of Science and Arts in Computer Science and Music Technology, and earned her Masters of Science, Information Design and Strategy from Northwestern University. Shout-out to fellow Googapella leaders Jen Nguyen-Ly Han (Assistant Music Director), Megan Copeland (President), Ricky Jacobson (Vice President), and Lindsay Alford (Founder).

Affinity Female Voice Choir
Diane Wright
Affinity Female Voice Choir is one of the largest female choirs in Wales, UK, and has performed throughout the UK and abroad since it was founded in 2012. Its founder and director, Diane Wright, focuses on quality ensemble singing and providing members with a unique range of performance opportunities each year, as well as workshops and recording sessions. Affinity last visited the US in 2019 to tour and perform in Carnegie Hall and is delighted to return in 2025 to appear in Total Vocal at the Lincoln Centre!
Diane grew up in Scotland and studied Piano and Voice, graduating in 2005. She has toured internationally as both soloist and conductor and works as a Musical Director, examiner and tutor throughout the UK and abroad. She founded Affinity Female Voice Choir in Wales in 2012 and is proud to bring them on tour to New York for the second time.

Squad Harmonix

Laura Saggers
Squad Harmonix is a professional all-kids a cappella performance group from Santa Monica consisting of young performers aged 8-17. Started by director Laura Saggers in 2019, Squad filled a void in advanced singing programs for youngsters in Los Angeles. This visionary initiative offers a platform for dedicated young talent to receive top-notch vocal training and perform as a tight-knit vocal team. Squad Harmonix brings a vibrant family-friendly show with dance moves, live beatboxing, and audience participation. With over 500,000 views on Youtube, three albums on Spotify, and a growing local fanbase, Squad Harmonix would be a fantastic addition to your upcoming event.
Laura Saggers is the founder and director of The Laura Jean Music Academy and Squad Harmonix, the world's first year-round a cappella training academy for dedicated singers aged 8-17. Laura began her music journey at the age of 4 studying classical piano and worked her way through the rigorous ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal School of Music) curriculum in England. At age 17, she completed level 8, which is the highest level of achievement. She continued her music education studying Vocal Performance and received a degree in Music Business at the Academy of Contemporary Music. It was during this time she opened her first studio teaching piano to elementary and middle school students. Upon graduating from college, Laura moved to the US to pursue a career in live performance and songwriting. Her exceptional talent in piano earned her a sponsorship with Roland Keyboards and invitations to tour and perform with bands across the US. She also began writing and producing her own album, Chasing Dreams, which is a folksy love letter to artists following their hearts. Her single "10,000 Bitcoins" was featured in the Wall Street Journal and LA Times and her single "Summer Fling" was featured on Snapchat. In 2014, she founded the Laura Jean Music Academy specializing in piano, voice, guitar, music theory, and songwriting. Laura is deeply passionate about the progress and development of her students both artistically and personally.

Revv52

John Morgan
Revv52 is a Calgary-based pop and rock performance ensemble made up of 52 auditioned vocalists, singing on individual microphones alongside our in-house live band. More like a rock concert than a traditional choir, Revv52’s format is unique in North America, and explains why the group creates such a buzz with their sold-out shows, viral videos, and a community of fans from around the world. Whether singing to an intimate audience at the beautiful Bella Concert Hall, taking their show to Carnegie Hall in New York City, or performing for an international audience of 250,000 spectators at the Calgary Stampede Grandstand, Revv52 continues to deliver powerful, engaging performances that solidify the group’s place as Canada’s Vocal Energy.
John Morgan, Artistic Director of Revv52, has redefined choral performance with innovation and excellence. Leading Calgary's 52-voice pop vocal group, he introduced handheld microphones, immersive staging, and choreography. During the 2020 pandemic, John spearheaded 35 music videos, garnering millions of views and national recognition. John’s initiatives, including personal coaching, increased soloists from 6 to 30, while maintaining vocal unity. His collaborations span renowned artists like Emmylou Harris and Sass Jordan. He also directs Mount Royal Kantorei and The Young Canadians. Awarded for teaching and community impact, John’s leadership continually elevates choral music standards. Learn more: www.morganmusic.ca

Vocal Synergy

Kenneth Bryson
Vocal Synergy is an all-voice a capella chorus who exists to elevate the human spirit and to celebrate life through song. The group brings energy and excitement with a unique blend of a capella interpretation of popular music. Founded in New Jersey in 2021, Vocal Synergy was as the first mixed voice chorus associated with the Hunterdon Choral Alliance – an organization steeped in barbershop harmony history. When asked why they are a part of Synergy, many of our members say it’s not only the music, but what experience when you walk in the door. We are truly a music community focused on collaboration, kindness, and the diversity of our members.
Ken Bryson is the Founding Director of Vocal Synergy. Ken currently serves as a Director of Choral Activities at Chatham High School in Northern New Jersey as well as actively maintaining his private vocal studio. Additionally, he serves as a mentor for The Juilliard School’s Mentorship Program and is the NJMEA All-State Choral Procedures Chair. Mr. Bryson is also a published author whose article “Teaching a Student with Dyslexia” originally in the NATS March 2013 Journal of Singing has received much support and attention from some of the industry’s leading experts from around the world. Mr. Bryson received his bachelor of music degree from The Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and went on to earn a master’s degree at The Juilliard School.

Vocal Academy@ St. James

Anne Marie Oldham
Director Anne Marie Oldham, with the encouragement and support of Production Coordinator Mary Larkin, originally formed the Vocal Academy@St. James as a private choir for advanced junior high and high school singers. The Vocal Academy is honored to perform with Total Vocal for the seventh time. This year’s choir is intergenerational with singers from age 11 to over 50, and including Total Vocal alumni, first time singers and parents of both. Fun fact, NBC's The Voice Season 17 semifinalist Kat Hammock performed several times with the Vocal Academy and Total Vocal. A huge thank you to Deke Sharon and DCINY!
Director Anne Marie Oldham studied choral music education, classical voice and piano at University of Michigan and law at University of California. After practicing corporate and international law for 20 years, she resumed her passion for the arts by teaching music and directing performing arts at St. James Academy in Solana Beach, California. After retiring from full-time teaching, Anne Marie has continued choral directing and teaching private piano and voice. Her experience includes coaching singers who have competed on NBC’s The Voice and ABC’s American Idol. She is thankful to her family, students and community for their loving support.

The Iona University NightinGAELs

Dana Celestino
The Iona University NightinGAELs are an elite, audition-based vocal group. Consisting of eighteen singers, the NightinGAELs perform annually at Radio City Music Hall as a part of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, as well as at high profile events on campus at Iona University and in the tri-state area. They are the best and brightest vocalists that our campus has to offer!
Dana Celestino is a choral educator in Westchester County. She has worked at Iona University for ten years as the director of the Music Ministry. Recently, she has taken on the helm of the Iona Singers and the Iona NightinGAELs. Dana also teaches elementary school chorus and general music in the Byram Hills Central School District in Armonk, NY.

RJR A Cappella
Josh David Settlemyre
RJR A Cappella is a high school a cappella group in Winston-Salem, NC, consisting of three sub-groups: X, Syncopate, and The Acafellas. The ensemble creates high-quality performances that showcase its members' talents while promoting teamwork and musical excellence. Since 2020, RJR A Cappella has hosted acts like Six-Appeal Vocal Band, Deke Sharon, and Matt Sallee from Pentatonix at its annual A Cappella Jam for HOPE, a benefit concert. The group has four albums available on all streaming platforms and has been featured on BOHSA (Best of High School A Cappella) this year!
Josh Settlemyre is the director of choirs at R.J. Reynolds High school in Winston-Salem, NC. Josh is known for his creative and engaging approach to choral music. With years of experience, he has a knack for bringing out the best in his singers, whether they're seasoned performers or new to the genre. His leadership blends both old and new a cappella styles, fostering a sense of collaboration and musical growth within his ensembles. Josh’s passion for music and commitment to his choirs results in memorable performances that highlight the unique potential of each singer.

Purple Reign

Katy Zorn
Founded in fall 2022 as an after-school club meeting weekly, Purple Reign has risen to become College Station High School’s premier a cappella group. By fall 2023, it secured a dedicated class period, requiring competitive auditions to select its 17 voices. The ensemble crafts intricate arrangements, captivating audiences with their love for a cappella. Purple Reign fosters a deeper appreciation for vocal performance, engaging students and the community alike. Through evolving artistry and commitment, the group has established a strong presence in the local and state music scene, showcasing the power of harmony and creativity.
Katy Zorn is a passionate choral director who has transformed the music program at College Station High School since joining in fall 2022. A West Texas A&M University graduate, she has driven remarkable growth, doubling the program to nearly 120 students across five ensembles in just two years. Katy’s vision is to immerse her students in all aspects of music performance, leading ensembles to collaborate with the orchestra, symphonic band, jazz band, a local rock band, and the theater department. Her excellence earned her a CSISD Star Educator award and a 2025 Brazos Valley Educator’s Society finalist nomination.

The Music of Eric Whitacre

Grammy Award-winner Eric Whitacre makes his highly-anticipated return to the stunning David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center! This concert will feature two acts of his most beloved works, including Lux Aurumque, Goodnight Moon, Leonardo Dreams of His Flying Machine, and Home. Whitacre will conduct choirs from around the world in an unforgettable evening of spectacular, moving music, richly layered with emotional texts and intricate harmonies that have defined him as one of today's most popular composers.

Acts

Eric Whitacre, Composer/Conductor

The Music of Eric Whitacre

Also Featuring:

Kelly Yu-Chieh Lin, Piano

Participating Groups

St. Agnes Schola

Wahoo High School Concert Choir

Nashville in Harmony

Clovis East High School Touring Choir

Eisenhower High School Choir

Beyond Glee - Wheaton Park District

Mountain Lakes High School Choir

Vox Consone

Greater Atlanta Christian School Concert Choir

Palm Desert High School Chamber Singers

Delaware Valley Choral Society

Austintown Fitch Concert Choir

Charyl Stockwell Preparatory Academy Honors Chorale

Singing Sergeants

Eastern Illinois University Concert Choir

Whitachords

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Eric Whitacre

Artist's Name

Kelly Yu-Chieh Lin

Press & Marketing

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Participating Group Directors

St. Agnes Schola

Zachary See
The St. Agnes Schola was founded in 2023 with the primary aim of creating beauty for the Catholic liturgy. Additionally, the group focuses on growing their musical comprehension and skill; broadening their horizons; and encouraging all to explore, enjoy, and use their talents. The St. Agnes Schola has sung at churches and events throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and hopes to continue widening their musical and geographic scope in the coming years.
Zach co-founded and has been the director of the St. Agnes Schola since its inception in 2023. Musically, Zach is a trained instrumentalist (piano and violin), composer (piano and choral works), and singer, and personally is a writer, volunteer firefighter, and massive soccer aficionado.

Wahoo High School Concert Choir

Leighton Ware
Concert Choir is the choir at Wahoo High School in Wahoo, NE. It is made up of 40 singers ranging from 9th to 12th grade. Concert Choir has received a superior rating all three years under the direction of Ms. Ware at District Music Contest, with two perfect scores, alongside many superior and excellent ratings from solos and small groups within the ensemble. They have had many students represented in the NMEA All-State choir, and have performed in collaboration with collegiate level choirs, but most notably at Nebraska Wesleyan University in the Spring of 2024.
Leighton Ware is in her 3rd year of teaching at Wahoo High School in Wahoo, NE and 4th year teaching overall. She is originally from Lincoln, Nebraska. She is a graduate of Iowa State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Music Education and is currently working on her Graduate Degree at the University of Nebraska - Kearney on her Master's of Vocal Music Education. She is the director of 6th-8th grade choirs, middle school show choir, high school choir, high school show choir, spring musical, and leads an after school acapella group at her school.

Nashville in Harmony

Wesley Poole King
Nashville in Harmony (NiH) was founded in 2004 as Tennessee’s first musical arts organization specifically created for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, and their allies. Since that time, we're proud that several other similar organizations have formed around the state, including our own Major Minors youth chorus and NIH Pride Band. With a mission of using music to build community and create social change, NiH brings people together within both the LGBTQIA+ community ​and the community at large.
Wesley Poole King serves as Artistic Director of Nashville in Harmony, Middle Tennessee's premiere LGBTQIA+ Musical Arts Organization. The organization boasts an adult choir of 120 singers, a youth ensemble of 30 members, and a marching band of 65 members. Wesley received his undergraduate degree in Music Education from The University of Alabama, where he was a Music Scholar, Alabama Power Scholar, and a 3-time AMEA Young Composer Award winner. Wesley also has a Master of Divinity degree from Lexington Theological Seminary and is pursuing a PhD in Public Policy and Administration.

Clovis East High School Touring Choir

Allison Crose
The Clovis East Choir Program is under the direction of choir director Mrs. Allison Crose and accompanist Mr. Matthew Rye. The program serves the students at Clovis East High School to prepare them to perform at a high level of excellence. There are five performing ensembles at Clovis East, one of which is student directed. In addition to their formal concert and festival performances, the choirs participate in community outreach such as exchanges with other choirs in central California, collaboration with their feeder intermediate and elementary schools, and performing in the community at local restaurants, retirement centers, and vendor fairs.
Mrs. Allison Crose is the Choir Director at Clovis East High School in Clovis, California. She has been the Choir Director at Clovis East since 2023. She graduated from California State University, Fresno with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education with a Choral Emphasis. She studied voice under professors Helene Joseph Weil and Brigid de Jong and sang under the choral direction of Dr. Anna Hamre. She served as director of the Reyburn Intermediate Choir Program from 2012 to 2023. She has been a member of the Fresno Master Chorale and the Fresno State Masterworks Chorus.

Eisenhower High School Choir

Julia Jenkins Holt
The choirs at Eisenhower High School, under Julia Jenkins Holt's direction since 2003, consistently earn top ratings at Michigan School Vocal Music Association festivals. They have performed at prestigious venues such as the MSVMA All-State Festival, the Michigan Youth Arts Festival and Carnegie Hall. Many students have been selected for State and All-State Honors Choirs, as well as the Michigan All-State Jazz Honors Choir. The choir’s philosophy focuses on achieving technical excellence across genres while fostering deep emotional connections to music and fellow performers.
Julia Jenkins Holt is the Vocal Music Director at Eisenhower High School and Malow Junior High in Shelby Township, MI. She holds degrees from Michigan State University and Oakland University. Named Macomb County High School Teacher of the Year in 2014, Julia is active in MSVMA, currently serving as Treasurer and State Scheduling Coordinator. She conducts the Session 2 SSA Choir at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp and led the 2016 MSVMA State Honors Choir. Her choirs consistently earn top ratings at MSVMA festivals and perform in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall. Julia lives in Troy, MI with her husband and two children.

Beyond Glee - Wheaton Park District

Paul Sirvatka
Founded in 2011, Beyond Glee is an adult choir with the Wheaton Park District that embraces the joy of music through a dynamic and diverse repertoire. Under the enthusiastic direction of Paul Sirvatka, the choir performs contemporary hits, classic favorites, and seasonal selections, striving to appeal to audiences of all ages. With a commitment to exploring a variety of musical styles, Beyond Glee creates engaging performances that inspire and connect. The choir’s passion for music shines in every concert, leaving audiences uplifted and delighted.
Paul Sirvatka, a professor of meteorology, has also made significant contributions to the world of music, directing a wide array of ensembles—from a cappella octets and church choirs to community musicals and large choral groups. For 37 years, he has served at the College of DuPage in northeast Illinois, where he developed a nationally recognized professional website providing essential meteorological information. Despite his distinguished career in meteorology, Paul's true passion lies in music. With Beyond Glee, he is thrilled to be in New York City, joining his choir and the renowned Eric Whitacre for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Mountain Lakes High School Choir

Austin Vallies
The Mountain Lakes High School Choir program is comprised of students grades 9-12 residing in Mountain Lakes, and Boonton Township, New Jersey. The program includes the High School Choir, the Chamber Choir, and a Handbell Choir. Every other year, the High School Choir is selected to perform as part of Disney World's Imagination Campus, and in 2022 was selected to perform at Lincoln Center in NYC for a concert entitled "This is Me".
Austin Vallies is a graduate of Westminster Choir College. He has been an educator of music in New Jersey for the last 19 years. Mr. Vallies’ choirs have performed in Orlando, Montreal, Washington, D.C., and New York City on multiple occasions. Most recently he served on the North Jersey School Music Association as Chorus Division Chair for 11 years, and conducted the Morris Area Honor Choir in January of this year. He would like to thank his husband, Jeff, for all of his support.

Vox Consone

Ian Stillmunks
Vox Consone, St. Francis High School's advanced mixed choir, is known for its versatility and diverse repertoire, spanning classical to contemporary works. Their commitment to excellence has earned them superior ratings and recognition at festivals and competitions.
Ian Stillmunks is the choral director at St. Francis High School and the musical director of the Bridge Street Singers show choir in St. Francis, MN. Under his leadership, his students have achieved superior ratings at numerous contests. The Bridge Street Singers have successfully competed across the Midwest, showcasing their innovative sets, "Who Are You?" and "Nightmare!". Mr. Stillmunks earned his degree in music education from DePaul University. He has performed in various bands and recording projects spanning multiple genres. He has also served as a clinician at conferences and professional development events, including the Music Will Modern Band Summit.

Greater Atlanta Christian School Concert Choir

Marcus Miller
Greater Atlanta Christian School’s Concert Choir is the flagship ensemble for the school. Concert Choir has a legacy of top-notch choral music performance, a standard of excellence in adjudication and competition, and a commitment to outreach and service in the community. Students perform a variety of music each year ranging from standard choral literature, spirituals and gospel music, pop and contemporary, and much more. The ensemble performs on campus, at public and private venues in the greater Atlanta area, regionally at festivals and competitions, and nationally at venues such as Carnegie Hall.
Dr. Marcus Miller holds the position of Director of Choral and Vocal Activities at Greater Atlanta Christian School. In his tenure at GAC, the choral program has achieved statewide recognition in recurring superior ratings at choral assessments, gold ratings at regional music festivals, and state championships for the Literary Team soloists, trio and quartet. Students are selected annually to the GMEA All-State Chorus and All-State Reading Chorus have been accepted into to the NAfME All National Honor Mixed Choir and Georgia Governor’s Honors Program. The choirs have toured locally and nationally, including multiple invitations to sing at Carnegie Hall.

Palm Desert High School Chamber Singers

RJ McCrackin
Founded in the early 2000s as part of Palm Desert High School’s renowned music department, the Chamber Singers quickly established a reputation for delivering sophisticated choral performances. Over the years, the Chamber Singers have consistently earned top honors in local, regional, and state choral competitions. Their participation in events such as the California Music Educators Association (CMEA) festivals and the Southern California Vocal Association competitions has brought them critical acclaim and recognition for their skill and artistry. In addition to their competitive successes, the Chamber Singers are deeply involved in the community, performing at various events throughout the year.
RJ McCrackin has been a choir director for more than a decade. He pursued his bachelors in music education with choral emphasis from FIU in Miami, Florida. Having earned his MA at the University of Kentucky, RJ conducted research into music pedagogy, Renaissance counterpoint, music history, song in Ancient Greece, and music in Roman comedy. RJ enjoys working in all genres of choral music including concert, contemporary a cappella, and show choir.

Delaware Valley Choral Society

Jeffrey Fornoff
The Delaware Valley Choral Society is a 501(c)(3) (non-profit) organization dedicated to performing choral works for the enjoyment of our community in the tri-state area of Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. The Delaware Valley Choral Society provides an opportunity for all interested and qualified singers to perform in a choral organization. The Choral Society encourages student musicians to fully participate with the Society; indeed the Society collaborates with other groups to perform major choral works along with professional instrumentalists . The Choral Society seeks to stimulate interest in choral music by the presentation of high-quality programs, and by encouraging and performing original compositions. Many compositions of local composers have been included in our concert programs. Major works performed since the Delaware Valley Choral Society has been established include: Cantata, BWV 140 “Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme” Johnann Sebastian Bach Gloria in D, RV 589 Antonio Vivaldi Fantasia on Christmas Carols Ralph Vaughan Williams Christmas Day Gustav Holst Requiem, Op. 48 Gabriel Fauré Missa in Angustiis (Lord Nelson Mass) Franz Joseph Haydn Requiem in D minor, K. 626 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Ceremony of Carols, Op. 28 Benjamin Britten Mass of the Children John Rutter Magnificat in D major Johnann Sebastian Bach Christmas Cantata Sinfonia Sacra Daniel Pinkham Gloria John Rutter Mass in A-flat Franz Schubert Messiah (complete) George Fredrick Handel Lux Aeterna Edward Elgar Requiem Maurice Duruflé Mass No. 2 in G, D. 167 Franz Schubert Requiem in D minor R. Wayne Walters Meeres Stille und Glückliche Fahrt, Op. 112 Ludwig Van Beethoven The Peacemakers Karl Jenkins Magnificat Dietrich Buxtehude
Jeffrey Fornoff founded the Delaware Valley Choral Society in 2009 in response to the desire of area musicians to perform major choral works in their original form utilizing the instrumentation called for by the composer. One of the major goals of the Choral Society is to encourage participation of aspiring musicians to perform alongside professional musicians, and to showcase talent and compositions of local artists. Mr. Fornoff currently serves as Director of Music at the Milford United Methodist Church as organist, adult choir director, and bell choir director. As a composer, he has been performed in both the US and Europe with such groups as the Morris Choral Society. Jeffrey minored in music, graduating with a degree in Electronic Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. As a singer, Jeffrey has toured Europe many times with the Morris Choral Society. Mr. Fornoff continued his music studies at the Conservatory of Music at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ where he completed a two-year course of study in the Church Music Certificate Program (CMCP). With professors Jack Ferguson and Craig Williams, studies included Music Theory and Composition, Hymn Playing and Improvisation, Choral Conducting, Choral Repertoire, and Private Voice and Organ Instruction.

Austintown Fitch Concert Choir

Bill Klein
The Fitch High School Concert Choir was formed in 1972 under the direction of Rosemary Kascher. The purpose of the ensemble is to "Serve Those Who Have Served Us". The ensemble has traveled the United States entertaining Veterans at Military Bases and Hospitals for over 50 years. During this time, over one million miles have been traveled entertaining Veterans. The ensemble entertains Veterans is large auditorium show along with specific wards for those who are non-ambulatory including spinal injury units, hospice care units, recovery units, and memory care units. The ensemble made its Carnegie Hall debut in 2019 with Eric Whitacre.
Bill Klein has been the director of Vocal Music at Fitch High School since 2015. He has degrees in music from Youngstown State University and Kent State University and is currently a Ph.D. Candidate at Kent State. His research is in high school choral identity, community, and experiences. Klein's ensembles have traveled across the United States performing in several notable venues including Carnegie Hall, HMX-1, and Lincoln Center. He resides in Austintown, OH with his wife Megan, sons Liam and Mickey, and their dog Charley.

Charyl Stockwell Preparatory Academy Honors Chorale
Jason Penner
CSPA Honors Chorale was created as an audition based vocal ensemble in 2016 to sing at school and community functions. The ensemble started with 6 members during it's original concert season and currently has 32 members along with 11 former members attending music schools across the country. The Honors Chorale currently perform at school concerts, community performances and provides individual singers for local, social events.
Jason Penner graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2016 with an instrumental Music Education Degree. In 2016, he accepted the position of Director of Bands and Choirs at Charyl Stockwell Preparatory Academy in Brighton Michigan. Jason lives in Fenton Michigan with his wife Kelli and son Benjamin.

Singing Sergeants

Austin Gilbert
The Singing Sergeants are the auditioned advanced choir of Wilson Memorial High School. Named after a beloved and influential Director of the school's history, George Sergeant, the Singing Sergeants are committed to a standard of excellence and community outreach. Students in the ensemble participate in several extracurricular activities, but are unified in their love for the arts. Several members also participate in auditioned honor choir events. Over the years the Singing Sergeants have boasted participation in District, State, and National level honor ensembles. Under the direction of Austin Gilbert, the Singing Sergeants are happy to be participating in this event!
Austin Gilbert is a graduate of James Madison University, where he received his Bachelor's degree in Vocal and Instrumental Music Education and where he is currently working on his Masters degree in Music Education. Austin is in his third year at Wilson Memorial High School directing the Singing Sergeants and has enjoyed working with the students and pushing them to new levels of musicianship.

Eastern Illinois University Concert Choir

Howard Eckdahl
The Eastern Illinois University Concert Choir, comprised of music and non-music majors, performs premier choral literature to a high standard. They have recently been featured as the semi-chorus in Handel's Messiah, presented Caroline Shaw's To the Hands and Brahms' O Heiland, reiß die Himmel auf, and perform seamless and mosaic programs that tell a story greater than the sum of its parts.
Howard Eckdahl is Director of Choral Activities at Eastern Illinois University, where he conducts three ensembles, oversees a graduate program in choral conducting, and teaches courses in conducting, literature, and arranging. His orchestrations have been featured near and far to acclaim. A keen performer, he works professionally in the Chicago choral scene and sunlights as an organist when needed. Eckdahl has previously served on the music faculties of Notre Dame, Western Michigan University, and Augustana College.

Whitachords

The Whitachords are a unique and ever-evolving ensemble of singers who come together not through regular rehearsals or shared hometowns, but through a deep love of music—especially the works of composer Eric Whitacre. We are individuals from different backgrounds who learn our parts independently, yet when we unite in New York City for a performance with DCINY, we create something truly special.

Some of us are returning veterans of the group, while others are experiencing this incredible journey for the first time. Regardless of experience, every member brings their passion, dedication, and voice to the mix. Though we arrive as individuals, we leave as part of a community, bonded by music and the unforgettable experiences we share.

Each year, the Whitachords grow and change, always welcoming new voices and new friendships. And no matter what, one thing remains constant—we have the time of our lives with DCINY and Eric, singing our hearts out, and making memories that last forever.

Sanctus x 3

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 90 days before the concert.

Acts

Martín Palmeri, Composer/Conductor

Palmeri: Misatango

Jean-Sébastien Vallée, Guest Conductor

Fauré: Requiem

Marco K. Merrick, Director

The Community Concert Choir of Baltimore, Inc. (MD)

E'lissa Jones Maynard, Director

Warwick Valley High School Chamber & Symphony Orchestra (NY)

Also Featuring:

Alejandra Malvino, Mezzo-Soprano

Rodolfo Zanetti, Bandoneon

Madeline Apple Healey, Soprano

Edmund Milly, Baritone

Participating Groups

The Community Concert Choir of Baltimore, Inc. (MD)

Warwick Valley High School Chamber Orchestra; Warwick Valley High School Combined Symphony & Chamber Orchestras

South Holland Master Chorale

Christelijke Oratorium Vereniging Veenendaal

Ensemble de Provence

The Arlington Chorale

Konzertchor Ratingen

Fürstenland Chor Gossau

Toronto Mendelssohn Choir

The Hudson-Mohawk Chorale

Vocalino Classic Pop Jazz Chor

Choeur Arioso de Mudaison

Ottawa Choral Society

IU East Richmond Chorale

Martinskantorei Pfullingen

Arts Chorale of Winchester

Medina Community Choir

Pegasus Choral Society

Corale Vivaldi Sassari

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Martín Palmeri

Artist's Name

Jean-Sébastien Vallée

Artist's Name

Marco K. Merrick

Artist's Name

E'lissa Jones Maynard

Artist's Name

Alejandra Malvino

Artist's Name

Rodolfo Zanetti

Artist's Name

Madeline Apple Healey

Artist's Name

Edmund Milly

Press & Marketing

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Participating Group Directors

The Community Concert Choir of Baltimore, Inc. (MD)
Marco K. Merrick

Founded in 2010, The Community Concert Choir of Baltimore was established to preserve the musical heritage of the African American Church. The inaugural concert at Baltimore's Union Baptist Church met with a standing room only audience and enthusiastic support, which continues 15 years later. This ecumenical choral aggregation of nearly 200 singers spans age, race, faith, cultures, traditions and geography, celebrating music that has shaped history and reinforced the power of music, faith and hope over generations.  

The choir's repertoire includes spirituals, anthems, hymns and the evolution of gospel music, meeting the commanding presence of patrons in the Baltimore/Washington Metropolitan areas. In addition to its four seasonal signature concerts in area churches and concert halls, the choir has been featured at Washington's MLK, Jr. Memorial, at Morgan State University, The National Urban League Convention, The US Presbyterian Assoc. Convention, in Baltimore’s Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, and a tour Rome, Italy in 2023 before sold out audiences and standing room only crowds, including a private performance for the Vatican. This fall, the choir will perform its annual concert in the nation's first Cathedral, Baltimore's Basilica of the National Shrine of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

As a 501 c(3), all concerts are free and open to the public. Donors enable the choir to support music education and cultural enrichment programs in Baltimore, including providing annual scholarships for worthy students and aspiring musicians. Your tax deductible contributions may be sent to The CCCB, Inc. P.O. Box 26666 Baltimore MD 21207

Baltimore native, Marco Merrick's music contributions span nearly 50 years. He began piano studies at 8 years old at the Peabody Conservatory of Music. His church music positions in Baltimore and Boston led to him subsequently, founding the Community Concert Choir of Baltimore in 2010. He is deeply committed to preserving the sacred music of the Black Church.

A member of the Choir Directors & Organists Guild of the Hampton Ministers Conference and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, the nation’s oldest music fraternity, he has been piano faculty at the Nathan Carter School of Music and is sought after as consultant, facilitator, lecturer and has been director for the ACT-SO Chorus during NAACP national conventions. 

His TV news and programming career informed Marco producing features and specials on music and arts; and he was Performing Arts Coordinator at Morgan State University with Dr. Nathan Carter, where he produced the master class featuring world renowned soprano Leontyne Price and coordinated MSU Choir’s Bonn, Germany tour. A member of The Society of Living Makers of Black History, the Nat'l Assoc. of Negro Musicians, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and the Carter Legacy Singers, he is board member for the MD State Boychoir.

Merrick holds a M.A. from the Univ. of Baltimore, B.S. from Towson University, numerous awards and commendations, including an honorary doctoral degree in Sacred Music from Eastern Theological Seminary.

Warwick Valley High School Chamber Orchestra; Warwick Valley High School Combined Symphony & Chamber Orchestras
E'lissa Jones Maynard

The Warwick Valley High School (WVHS) Chamber Orchestra is a distinguished ensemble within the Warwick Valley Central School District's music program. Under the guidance of director Elissa Maynard, the orchestra has achieved significant milestones, including collaborations with renowned musicians and performances at esteemed venues. This is an audition based honors orchestra. The Warwick Valley High School (WVHS) Symphony Orchestra is a cornerstone of the school's vibrant music program, offering students the opportunity to engage in a comprehensive orchestral experience. This ensemble is open to all students proficient in violin, viola, cello, or string bass; the Symphony Orchestra does not require an audition for participation.

E'lissa Jones Maynard is a multifaceted musician renowned for her exceptional skills as an educator, singer, songwriter, and violinist. Hailing from Colorado and landing in New York, she has made significant contributions to the world of education and the folk-jazz genre. E'lissa has been an educator for 24 years and is the Director of Orchestras, Music Theory, and Music Production at the Warwick Valley High School. Throughout her performance career, E'lissa has been recognized with several accolades, including being a Grammy Ballot Nominee and was voted Hudson Valley Singer-Songwriter and multi-instrumentalist of the year on multiple occasions. In 2012, she was honored as the Best Multitalented Musician by Hudson Valley Magazine. E'lissa founded the Hudson Valley Ebony Strings in 2017, a chamber group dedicated to promoting classical music among young African American musicians. This initiative continues the legacy of her mentor, Tom Humphrey, aiming to inspire future generations in the classical music scene. E'lissa has graced numerous prestigious venues and festivals, including New York's The Blue Note and Birdland, as well as international stages like the Newport and Montreux Jazz Festivals. Her performances are celebrated for their emotional depth and musical prowess, captivating audiences worldwide.  Beyond her musical endeavors, E'lissa is deeply committed to community engagement, using her platform to mentor aspiring musicians and advocate for cultural enrichment. Her story is a testament to passion, dedication, and the transformative power of music.

South Holland Master Chorale

Philip J. Bauman
South Holland Master Chorale’s 80-plus active members have a long history as one of the premiere singing ensembles of the Chicago Southland. The Chorale draws singers from no fewer than 40 cities and villages extending from the South Side of Chicago to Kankakee and from Orland Park to Chesterton, Indiana. Broadly diverse and proudly non-discriminatory, the Chorale enjoys membership from across a wide range of demographics. The Chorale has always remained a non-auditioned group – all who love fine choral music and are willing to work hard to bring it to perfection are welcome, regardless of previous choral experience. The South Holland Master Chorale has performed many of the greatest masterpieces of classical choral and choral/orchestral literature.
Recognized by critics as offering “tremendously sensitive direction” and being “a gifted and spirited conductor,” Philip Bauman brings to the chorale decades of leadership and enthusiasm energizing the imagination of musicians and audience members. Maestro Bauman is also the Music Director of the Michigan City Messiah. Known for his charismatic presence on and off the podium he is frequently hailed for his innovative programs and consistently captivating performances. Mr. Bauman brings to the chorale a rich history of work with choruses and choral ensembles including work with Chicago Opera Theater, Downers Grove Oratorios Society, The Opera Factory, Light Opera Works, Boise Opera, Starlight Theater, and da Corneto Opera.

Christelijke Oratorium Vereniging Veenendaal

Hans Lamers
The Christian Oratorio Association in Veenendaal (COV) was founded on January 31, 1942, and has existed for 80 years with around 50 members. COV has high artistic ambitions and stands out for its high-quality performances, attracting renowned soloists and orchestras. Its repertoire includes both classical and modern choral works, oratorios, and passions. A selection from our recent concert history: Both St. Matthew Passion and St. John Passion by Bach, Gloria by Vivaldi, Misa a Buenos Aires (Misa Tango) by Palmeri, St. Paul by Mendelssohn, and The Creation by Haydn.
Hans Lamers initially studied orchestral conducting for wind ensembles, as his roots lay in wind music. His passion for choral music led to a choral conducting diploma in 1984 at the Arnhem Conservatory. In 1987, he joined a masterclass with renowned conductor Kurt Sanderling. Through the Gelderland Opera and Operetta Society (GOOG) and Toonkunst Choir Zutphen, he developed a deep affinity for major choral and orchestral works. In 2023, he bid farewell to the choir with Mendelssohn’s Elijah. Since 2008, he has been the conductor of COV Veenendaal, proud of their 2015 freedom concert and Haydn’s The Creation in the Basilica.

Ensemble de Provence

Bisser Kostadinov
Under Bisser Kostadinov artistic direction, has performed works from the major repertoire such as W.A. Mozart and G. Fauré Requiems, J.B. Bach, A. Vivaldi, G.B. Pergolesi Magnificats, Ethel Smyth Mass in D, but also contemporary works : M. Duruflé Requiem, B. Britten Cermony of Carols, J. Rutter Magnificat.
Bisser graduated from the National Music Conservatoire in Sofia, Bulgaria. In 1987 he won the singing competition organised by Nikola Giuzelev, the famous Bass. He has been living in France since 1990, singing in lyrical performances alongside renowned soloists. In 2009 he opened a singing school - in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Provence – to teach Bel Canto, and also started conducting choirs. Passionate about Orthodox singing, in 2010 Bisser created and conducted Cantus Dixit, a choir which has performed throughout Europe, notably at the Pomorie Orthodox Music Festival in Bulgaria. In 2023, he founded the Vocalys choir, dedicated to major classical works.

Konzertchor Ratingen

Thomas Gabrisch
Konzertchor Ratingen (www.konzertchor-ratingen.de) was founded in 1973 and directed by Josef Waggin for 40 years. Thomas Gabrisch took over the direction in 2013. The choir is 52 years old, now with currently 90 members. The choir has developed an extensive repertoire of symphonic oratorios, masses, secular choral music, and increasingly also contemporary music. It regularly travels abroad, e.g. to France, Hungary, USA, Israel, Italy, Cuba, Uruguay, Argentina, Spain and Portugal. In 2019 the choir sang Misatango in Buenos Aires with Martín Palmeri on the piano. In New York, Carnegie Hall, in June 2025, the choir will be represented by 16 singers (5S,6A,2T,3B).
Thomas Gabrisch ( www.thomasgabrisch.com) was born in Hamburg, where he went to school and university. He began his career at the “Deutsche Oper am Rhein”, Düsseldorf, where he become head of the opera studio. Afterwards he became first conductor in Freiburg and chief conductor of the Nuremberg Symphony Orchestra. He has conducted several hundred opera performances in Germany as well as symphony concerts in Germany and abroad. He is professor at the Robert Schumann University for more than 25 years, and every year in April he performs a major opera project with the students of his opera class. Since 2013 he is the artistic director of the Ratingen Concert Choir.

The Arlington Chorale

Dr. Ingrid Lestrud
The Arlington Chorale is a vibrant, multi-generational chorus featuring talented singers from Virginia, D.C., and Maryland. They perform a diverse repertoire that includes well-known masterpieces by composers such as Haydn, Mozart, and Brahms, alongside contemporary works that address pressing societal issues. Committed to supporting living composers, the Chorale commissions new works that resonate with the community partnerships they have established with local non-profits. Their youth ensemble, Performers with Purpose (PWP), empowers young singers to engage with community organizations, emphasizing service through choral music. In 2024, the Chorale received the Greater Washington D.C. Choral Excellence “Ovation” Award for Exemplary Community Engagement.
Dr. Ingrid Lestrud enjoys an active career as a conductor and educator. She holds a Doctor of Music from Northwestern University, where she studied with Victor Yampolsky. She spent three years as Voice Department Chair of the Merit School of Music, a community music school focused on underserved communities. She worked with Renée Fleming and the Lyric Opera of Chicago to develop curriculum for Merit’s programs, and her choir performed with Ms. Fleming for special events. In 2022, she won the Mid-Atlantic Teaching Artists Innovate + Create contest for her work with Performers With Purpose, a youth ensemble that combines music with service projects.

Fürstenland Chor Gossau

Guido Helbling
Fürstenland Chor Gossau was founded in 1885 as a women’s chorus in Gossau near St Gallen. Since 1971 it has been a mixed choir. Today it comprises around 45 singers from Gossau and the surrounding area (Fürstenland). Its varied repertoire ranges from oratorios and sacred music to traditional folk songs and popular music from all over the world. Every year a major work is performed in collaboration with a regional orchestra while a series of smaller events are dedicated to the performance of church music or lighter entertainment. Since 1982 it has been under the direction of Guido Helbling.
Guido Helbling is trained in musicology, piano, school music, singing, choral conducting and orchestral direction. For many years he taught at the Catholic Friedberg High School Gossau and at the St. Gallen School for Church Music. He was President of the Swiss Federation Europa Cantat (SFEC) and a member of the board of the Europa Cantat International Board from 2006-2015. He was a member of the Swiss Music Council and the umbrella organization of all Swiss choral associations. Guido Helbling chaired the music committee for the Swiss Song Festival at Gossau in 2022. As an expert, choir coach and course leader he continues to be involved in the Swiss choral scene.

Toronto Mendelssohn Choir

Jean-Sébastien Vallée
The TMChoir is one of Canada’s oldest, largest, and best-known choral organizations. Its first concert was on January 15, 1895, during Massey Hall’s inaugural season. A leader in Canadian choral music, the choir commissions works by Canadian composers and presents world and Canadian premières. It regularly performs and records with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. In May 2021, Jean-Sébastien Vallée became Artistic Director, the eighth conductor in TMChoir’s 130-year history. This anniversary season includes two commercial recordings: Remember: 130 Years of Canadian Choral Music and a recording with Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra and Orchestre symphonique de Québec celebrating Jacques Hétu.
Jean-Sébastien Vallée is a renowned Canadian-American conductor, scholar, and pedagogue specializing in vocal, choral, and orchestral repertoires. He is the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir and Full Professor of Music, Director of Choral Studies, and Coordinator of the Conducting & Ensembles Area at the Schulich School of Music of McGill University. Vallée has conducted across North America, Europe, and Asia, and prepared choruses for leading orchestras, including the Chicago Symphony and Toronto Symphony. His recordings, including Remember (2024) and Distance (2021), have been internationally broadcast.

The Hudson-Mohawk Chorale

Susan Hermance-Fedak
Organized in 2015 by Founder and Artistic Director Susan Hermance-Fedak, The Hudson-Mohawk Chorale is a 70 voice, non-auditioned community chorus, primarily performing works by contemporary living composers. Accompanied by their Composer-in-Residence Alfred Fedak, the group has given two European concert tours, performs to full houses, does outreach to nearby nursing homes and elder facilities, and has premiered several of Mr. Fedak's works. This is the group's first appearance on the Carnegie Hall stage.
Well-known throughout New York's Capital Region as an oratorio soloist, vocal teacher and conductor, Susan Hermance-Fedak has held church, synagogue and college positions and has conducted choral ensembles and festivals for singers of all ages, often with full orchestra. Over the course of her long career, Ms. Fedak has sung or conducted in 10 foreign countries and taught at five colleges ... so far!

Vocalino Classic Pop Jazz Chor

Beat Dähler

The Vocalino Choir is renowned for its diverse repertoire, ranging from classical to pop, jazz, and gospel. Classical highlights include the Swiss premiere of Dvořák's Requiem with a chamber orchestra and performances at Tonhalle Zürich featuring works by Haydn, Mozart, and Orff. The choir has also performed pop concerts like Beatles Revival, jazz oratorios, and staged productions such as Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice, and Dähler's musical "Deal is Deal." In 2023, they captivated audiences with tango music and Palmeri's Misatango. Notable events include 'CinemaParadiso - Film Music Live' and the sold-out 30th-anniversary performance "Kings & Queens" at Tonhalle Zürich in 2024.

Beat Dähler, a versatile musician from Zurich, has made significant contributions to the Swiss music scene. Trained in piano, organ and conducting, Dähler's career spans composing, arranging, performing and teaching. He conducts several choirs, including the 100-strong Vocalino ensemble, which he founded, and has led numerous performances in prestigious venues including the Tonhalle Zürich. Besides conducting hit musicals ‘Heidi’, ‘Fame’ and ‘The Addams Family, Dähler's work also extends to television productions and musical compositions, including „Deal ist Deal“, «Home Office» and „Shaking Quotes“. Dähler's versatile expertise, his humorous rehearsals and his commitment continue to inspire students, musicians and audiences alike.

Choeur Arioso de Mudaison

Jean-Marc Normand
The Arioso choir was founded over 30 years ago. For more than 20 years, under the direction of Jean-Marc Normand, it has counted some forty amateur singers and is one of the region's finest vocal ensembles. Arioso's repertoire is vast and eclectic, ranging from the great classics of sacred and secular music (Bach, Gounod, Monteverdi, Vivaldi, Fauré, Schubert, Handel...) to gospel and contemporary works. Arioso performs throughout the Montpellier region in the south of France.
Jean-Marc Normand is a classically trained musician and teacher (teaching diploma in musicology, diploma in piano/harmony). He has won gold medals in France in musical training and piano accompaniment. He also trained as a singer and choral conductor. His great skill and leadership qualities have enabled the Arioso choir to make spectacular progress in all the major repertoires.

Ottawa Choral Society

Gabrielle Gaudreault
Since its inaugural concert in 1941, the Ottawa Choral Society (OCS)’s focus on choral excellence and meaningful presentation has made it one of Canada’s most ambitious and accomplished large choruses. OCS concerts feature up to 120 auditioned voices performing sacred and secular masterworks, as well as modern and traditional choral gems. OCS proudly shares the stage with world-class concert artists, distinguished conductors and Ottawa’s leading instrumentalists. In addition to presenting its own subscription series, OCS regularly appears as the guest of the National Arts Centre Orchestra and has partnered with the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra and the Ottawa International Chamber Music Society.
In addition to being the artistic director of the Ottawa Choral Society, Gabrielle Gaudreault leads the Saint-Lambert Choral Society and is an instructor in the Choral Department at McGill University’s Schulich School of Music. A sought-after conductor, pedagogue and collaborative pianist, Dr. Gaudreault has previously served as Assistant Conductor to Maestro Kent Nagano at the Staatsoper Hamburg and Associate Conductor of the National Children’s Chorus in Washington, D.C. In 2020, she co-founded CG Music Academy in Arlington, Virginia with her husband, Chris LaRosa. Gabrielle completed her Doctorate in Choral Conducting at McGill University and holds an MA in Music Theory and Choral Conducting from Indiana University.

IU East Richmond Chorale

Jessica Raposo
In 2016, the Indiana University East choir opened itself to community members, forming the IU East Richmond Chorale in Richmond, Indiana. Made up of students, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and others, the IU East Richmond Chorale performs on campus and in the community for concerts, fundraisers, and other special events. In 2024, under director Dr. Jessica Raposo, the Chorale formed a partnership with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra, the Earlham College Choirs, and the RSO Singers to come together for large choral works as the Richmond Symphony Chorus. Their first collaboration in March 2025 was a performance of the Fauré Requiem.
Jessica Raposo is chair of Fine and Performing Arts at IU East, teaching classes in performance, theory and history, and the IU East Richmond Chorale. A flutist by trade, she began her work in choral music in church music ministry, first as a singer, then as a director of traditional, folk and youth choirs in London, Vancouver and Connecticut. Dr. Raposo holds degrees from University of Michigan, Royal Academy of Music, and University of British Columbia, and is a certified K-12 music educator. She completed additional training at the International Workshops in Norway, and the Choral Conducting Symposium in Michigan.

Martinskantorei Pfullingen

Bettina Maier
The Martinskantorei Pfullingen under the direction of Bettina Maier is a choir with an inter-community catchment area and charisma. The choir currently consists of around 60 singers. It sings once a month at church services, mainly in St. Martin's Church in Pfullingen, and performs two concerts a year with challenging oratorio and a cappella literature. The choir's repertoire includes: Bach, C. Ph.: Magnificat Bach, J. S.: Christmas Oratorio, St. John Passion, St. Matthew Passion, St. Mark Passion, motets Brahms, Joh.: Gypsy songs, motets Dvorak, A.: Mass in D major Handel, G. Fr.: The Messiah Keiser, R.: St. Mark Passion Pärt, A.: St. John Passion Mendelssohn, F.: Motets, Paulus, Elias Mozart, W. A.: Requiem Rossini, G.: Petite Messe solennelle Schütz, H.: St. John Passion, St. Matthew Passion, Motets Zelenka, J. D.: Lamentationes for Holy Week
District cantor Bettina Maier received her first organ lessons at the age of 14 from KMD Otto Heymann in Metzingen. After her C examination and A-levels, she spent a social year in Paraguay and trained as a nurse. She then studied church music at the University of Church Music in Tübingen from 2008 to 2012. After successfully completing her B examination, she completed her one-year internship at the town church in Münsingen with district cantor Stefan Lust. From October 2013 to March 2018, she worked as a deanery cantor in Wörrstadt and moved to the district cantor position in Pfullingen in April 2018.

Arts Chorale of Winchester

Dr. Karen Keating
The Arts Chorale of Winchester was formed in 2001 by founding artistic director, Michael Main, to perform, promote and preserve the choral arts in Winchester and beyond. Now entering our 23rd season, Arts Chorale of Winchester continues to provide a performance opportunity for people of all walks of life who love to sing and aspire to a high standard of music-making. The repertoire ranges from the choral classics, both sacred and secular, to the music of Broadway. Programming is designed to be both challenging and enjoyable.
Karen Keating, Professor Emerita, is honored to be the Artistic Director of the Arts Chorale of Winchester since 2021. She taught over 30 years at Shenandoah University serving as director of Shenandoah Chorus, Cantus Singers and the music director/conductor for SU’s innovative Opera Up Close. Karen earned a Bachelor of Music degree from James Madison University and has Diplomas in organ performance and choral conducting from the University of Salzburg “Mozarteum”. She has a Doctoral degree in performance from Shenandoah University and studied with Grammy award winner Robert Shafer. Throughout her career, Karen has worked with many distinguished artists including singers Julianne Baird, Werner Hollweg, Christopher Merritt and Barbara Bonney. Her choirs have performed for Alice Parker, Chanticleer, Anonymous 4 and at ACDA regional conventions. While at Shenandoah Unviersity, Shenandoah Chorus was invited to sing the world premiere of composer Stephen Melillo’s Kakehashi: That We Might Live. She travelled with her choir to Tokyo, Japan to record the work.

Medina Community Choir

Hannah Brear
Hannah Brear founded Medina Community Choir on the Isle of Wight in 2006, initially for students and their parents to sing together. The choir now has over 120 members, performing a wide range of music from musical theatre to rock, pop, jazz, and classical. They tour France every two years, showcasing their award-winning gospel concert, with performances at Le Mans Cathedral and Tours Basilica. For their 20th anniversary, they will perform in Paris’ iconic places of worship. The choir regularly performs in theatres and festivals in the UK, with this being their second performance in New York, having performed Rutter's Magnificat here in 2019 .
Hannah Brear (Director of Medina Community Choir) was a member of the National Youth Choir of Great Britain, performing as a soloist at Notre-Dame and Sacré-Coeur as a teenager, and for the Pope at the Vatican at 19. At 20, she became Principal Voice Coach for the Conservatoire of Music, Perpignan. After moving to London in 1999, she trained as a teacher and founded the MCC in 2006. Recent achievements include performing with Lesley Garrett and Russell Watson, arranging for Fatboy Slim, and winning a BBC Glee competition. She performed at Carnegie Hall in 2019 and works as MD for several choirs on the Isle of Wight. She was nominated to run with the Olympic Torch in 2012 for her services to music in the community.

Pegasus Choral Society

Melody Gamblin-Bullock
PEGASUS CHORAL SOCIETY at Dallas College-Brookhaven is known for its immense energy, wide-ranging repertoire, and unique collaborations. This chorus regularly engages in diverse programs, such as a cross-cultural collaborative concert with Dallas Chinese Choral Society, the Lovers Lane Deaf Sign Choir, and New Texas Symphony Orchestra, and Mesquite Symphony Orchestra. The chorus embarked on its first European tour in 1998. Further international highlights include performances with Taipei National Normal University and Taipei Oratorio Society; the New Years’ Eve service and joint performance with the Salzburg Cathedral Chorus; Estonia Choral Festival in eastern Europe; and successful exchanges in Japan.
MELODY GAMBLIN-BULLOCK, choral music educator and conductor is passionate about promoting the artistry of the choral art form. She is currently Director of Choral Activities at Dallas College-Brookhaven, and conducts Brookhaven Choral Society and Vivace Madrigals. She has conducted and performed in international choral performances in Europe, Asia, and South America. While serving in her previous position as assistant director of the Dallas Symphony Chorus, Ms. Gamblin-Bullock prepared that ensemble for noted performances with conductors Thomas Wilkins, Lawrence Loh and Jaap van Zweden. She also prepared Pops concerts for Marvin Hamlisch and James Newton Howard.

Corale Vivaldi Sassari

Daniele Manca
La Corale Vivaldi è il Coro della Basilica del Sacro Cuore di Sassari. Nata nel 1971 ha svolto in tutti questi anni un’intensa attività concertistica, in Italia e all’estero, imponendosi all’attenzione di appassionati ed addetti ai lavori per la qualità delle interpretazioni e per la capacità innovativa delle sue produzioni. Dal repertorio classico, alla musica contemporanea, dalla polifonia alla musica popolare sino al pop, al jazz e alla musica per il teatro, la Corale è sempre stata protagonista apprezzata di innumerevoli progetti originali e ha svolto un’intensa attività concertistica che l'ha portata ad esibirsi nei più importanti centri della Sardegna, in Italia (Veneto, Umbria, Toscana, Lazio, Campania, Emilia Romagna, Piemonte e Liguria) ed all'Estero (Austria, Francia, Spagna, Andorra, Svizzera, San Marino, Germania). Nel 2023, in occasione delle celebrazioni degli oltre 50 anni dalla fondazione, la Corale Vivaldi è stata protagonista apprezzata di un evento che ha avuto risonanza internazionale: l’esecuzione della “Misa a Buenos Aires” conosciuta anche come Misatango del celebre compositore argentino Martin Palmeri che per l’occasione si è esibito suonando il pianoforte al fianco del celebre bandoneonista italiano Daniele di Bonaventura in un concerto apprezzato dal pubblico e dalla critica specializzata. Grazie alla qualità di questa esecuzione la corale Vivaldi ha ricevuto l’invito ad eseguire la Misatango presso la prestigiosa Kammermusicsaal della filarmonica di Berlino dove ha potuto eseguire anche alcuni brani del proprio repertorio scritti dal M° Daniele Manca che dirige la Corale Vivaldi dal 1990.
DANIELE MANCA Docente di Teoria, analisi e composizione presso il Liceo Musicale “De Andrè” di Olbia-­‐Tempio. Diplomato con Diploma Accademico di I° livello in Composizione e Direzione di Coro presso il Conservatorio di Musica “L. Canepa” di Sassari sotto la guida del M° Davide Troìa, Ha studiato Canto con il M° Teresa Rocchino, Composizione con il M° Antonio Costa ed il M° Luciano Pelosi, Percussioni con il M° Roberto Pellegrini, Direzione d’orchestra presso l’Accademia Musicale Pescarese con il M° Gilberto Serembe. Ha seguito in qualità di auditore le lezioni di Direzione d’orchestra del M° Bruno Aprea presso il Conservatorio Santa Cecilia di Roma e del M° Donato Renzetti presso l’Accademia Musicale Pescarese, e le Masterclass di direzione di coro con i Maestri Karl Högset, Javier Busto, Nikoleta Popova, Dario Tabbia e Marco Berrini. Dal 1980 sino al 1994 è stato il timpanista dell’Orchestra Sinfonica di Sassari della Coop. Teatro e/o Musica partecipando a tutte le produzioni di quegli anni tra stagioni liriche, sinfoniche e di operetta. Dal 1990 è Direttore artistico e Maestro della Corale Vivaldi di Sassari per la quale ha scritto una lunga serie di composizioni e adattamenti, con la quale svolge un’intensa attività concertistica. Nel 1995 è stato chiamato dal comune di Badesi a fondare il Coro Polifonico Sacro Cuore di Badesi che ha formato ed avviato all’attività sino al 1996. Sin dalla sua fondazione nel settembre 1999 al maggio 2013 è stato Direttore del Coro e Docente dei corsi di musica dell’Università degli studi di Sassari . Dal 2002 al 2006 è stato Direttore del Coro Logudoro di Usini Nel 2007 insieme al M° Davide Soddu ha ideato e fondato la Piccola Orchestra D’archi della quale è Direttore e per la quale compone ed arrangia. Dal 2018 collabora in qualità di Maestro ospite con il Coro polifonico “Città di Ozieri. Ha diretto diverse formazioni corali ed orchestrali in concerti e registrazioni tra cui la Roma Sinfonietta, l’Orchestra Sinfonica di Sassari con la violinista Anna Tifu, la Polifonica Santa Cecilia di Sassari con la cantante Antonella Ruggiero, il Coro L. Perosi di Olbia, il Coro G. Rossini di Sassari ed il Coro-­laboratorio della classe di direzione di coro del Conservatorio “L. Canepa” di Sassari. Ha inciso diversi CD per Coro, Coro e Organo, Coro e Orchestra.

Da Vinci’s Simple Gifts

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 90 days before the concert.

Acts

Cheryl Anderson, Director

Cabrillo Choirs (CA)

Hagen: The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci

Greg Gilpin, Composer/Conductor

For the Beauty of Life

Featuring the music of Greg Gilpin, Ryan Murphy, Victor C. Johnson, and Penny Rodriguez

Jordan Mathisen, Director

Sloan Canyon Wind Ensemble (NV)

With Guest Conductors Dr. Charles A. Maguire, Monica Guido, and David Maccabee

Also Featuring:

Jocelyn Hagen, Composer

Participating Groups

Cabrillo Choirs

Sloan Canyon Wind Ensemble

The Fisher Middle School Firebird Chorus

Eastchester Middle School Honor Choir

Grimmer Middle School 8th Grade Choir

Mauldin Middle School Mustang Choir

Robert R Lazar Middle School Chamber Choir

SCAPA Middle School Choir

Weeki Wachee High School Angelite Singers

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Cheryl Anderson

Artist's Name

Jocelyn Hagen

Artist's Name

Greg Gilpin

Artist's Name

Jordan Mathisen

Press & Marketing

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Participating Group Directors

Cabrillo Choirs
Cheryl Anderson

Cheryl Anderson serves as Director of Choral and Vocal Studies at Cabrillo College in Santa Cruz, California. She conducts acclaimed Symphonic Chorus, Cantiamo!, Chorale, Cabrillo Youth Chorus, Cabrillo Opera, Voice Master Class, and Cabrillo Stage. Under her baton the ensembles have concertized throughout the Czech Republic, Russia, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Cuba, South Africa, Ireland, Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, and around the U.S. This performance marks her third guest-conducting in Carnegie Hall. She is sought after as a clinician, guest-conductor, and adjudicator throughout the country. 

Numerous composers have written compositions for her ensembles: Imant Raminsh, Ēriks Ešenvalds, Kirke Mechem, Daniel Pinkham, James McCray, Steven Tosh, to name a few. Her Voice/Choral studies were done at West Liberty University, University of Northern Colorado, and College-Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati. She has been a member of MENC/NAfME, NATS, NCCO, IFCM, and ACDA, and served as Western President of ACDA. Ms. Anderson sang in the Robert Shaw Carnegie Hall Institute  in Carnegie Hall and in Atlanta, was a Conducting Fellow with Helmuth Rilling, and has enjoyed an active solo career. She has been named Alumni of the Year at West Liberty University, Artist of the Year for Santa Cruz Arts Commission, received the Cabrillo Meritorious Teaching Award, the Gail Rich Award for the Arts. Her teaching career began K-7 school, and spans all levels through Doctoral Candidates.

Sloan Canyon Wind Ensemble
Jordan Mathisen

The Sloan Canyon Wind Ensemble is the premier performing ensemble of the Sloan Canyon Wind & Percussion Studies Program, housed within the Keys Conservatory at Pinecrest Academy. Since its founding, the ensemble has grown into a distinguished group of young musicians dedicated to artistic excellence. Under the direction of Jordan Mathisen, the ensemble has earned top ratings at district festivals and was awarded Gold ratings at the prestigious Con Brio Music Festival in Whistler, Canada. The Sloan Canyon Wind & Percussion Studies Program has flourished since its inception in 2019, expanding from just 30 students to over 200. This rapid growth is a testament to the program’s commitment to musical excellence and the holistic development of its students. With a philosophy centered on individual growth, the program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and collaborative skills essential for success in both music and academics. With a passion for performance and a dedication to artistry, the Sloan Canyon Wind Ensemble continues to push musical boundaries, inspiring the entire Henderson and Las Vegas community.

Jordan Mathisen brings 14 years of experience to his role as the High School Director of the Wind & Percussion Studies Program at Pinecrest Academy Sloan Canyon, part of the Keys Conservatory. He is a dedicated educator who works with both middle and high school bands, guiding students to achieve excellence in their musical pursuits. Mathisen is known for his ability to foster individual growth and build thriving music programs. Over the years, Mathisen has successfully developed music programs across multiple Pinecrest Academy of Nevada campuses, earning a reputation as a visionary educator skilled in curriculum design, student engagement, and program management. In addition to his work as an educator, Mathisen is an accomplished bass clarinet soloist and arranger, with national recognition for his contributions. He was a member of The Desert Winds contemporary wind ensemble and served as its music librarian from 2011-2013. His original arrangements have been performed across the country and received critical acclaim. Mathisen studied at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, performing with the UNLV Wind Orchestra under the baton of Thomas G. Leslie and recording for the Klavier Record Label on *Lost Vegas* and *Ventanas*. Under the tutelage of esteemed conductors Dr. Charles A. Maguire, Dr. T. André Feagin, and Dr. Jason Caslor, he honed his skills as both a performer and educator. An active committee member of the Nevada Music Educators Association, Mathisen is committed to advocating for music education across the greater Las Vegas area.

The Fisher Middle School Firebird Chorus

Erin Brearley
The Fisher Middle School Firebird Chorus, consisting of 7th- and 8th-grade singers, hails from Greenville, SC. This ensemble performs locally in upstate South Carolina and around the country. The Firebird Chorus has received Best in Show, the Gold Award, and superior ratings at Festival Disney in Orlando, FL, as well as superior ratings at the Carowinds Festival of Music in Charlotte, NC. This year will mark the third time that the Firebird Chorus has performed at Carnegie Hall with DCINY, and all singers are grateful for this extraordinary opportunity.
Erin Brearley has been the choral director at Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School since 2021. A native of Prairie Village, KS, Erin received her Bachelor of Music Education from Furman University. She has taught music for eleven years at both the primary and secondary levels in Nashville, TN and Greenville, SC. Erin was named Teacher of the Year in 2020. Outside of the classroom, Erin enjoys singing with the Greenville Chorale in upstate South Carolina, where she resides with her husband and two daughters.

Eastchester Middle School Honor Choir

Erin Bonner
The Eastchester Middle School Honor Choir is an elite vocal ensemble at Eastchester Middle School in lower Westchester County, NY. Comprised of talented students in grades 6-8 who have successfully auditioned, the group meets weekly to rehearse a diverse range of choral music. Under the direction of Erin Bonner, the Honor Choir strives for excellence in vocal technique, musicianship, and performance. The choir provides students with an opportunity to showcase their musical abilities and work together as a cohesive and dedicated team of young singers.
Erin Bonner has been the 6-8 choral educator at Eastchester Middle School since 2018. An esteemed conductor and choral singer, she has conducted and performed with choirs throughout North America and Europe. Most recently, Erin was featured as the All County Chorus Conductor for Duchess County, NY (2024) and Nassau County, NY (2025). She is the director of the EMS Honor Choir, and the co-director/music director of the EMS Players Club. She is a proud graduate of the Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam. She would like to thank her wife, family, and school community for their continued support.

Grimmer Middle School 8th Grade Choir

Kristen Marsh
The Grimmer 8th Grade Choir has been together since 6th Grade. Last year at ISSMA (Indiana State School Music Association) contest, they received Gold with distinction. The highest rating you can receive at contests.
Kristen Marsh has taught at Grimmer Middle School for the past 20 years. Besides teaching choir and general music, she conducts the Hand Bell Choir, Show Choir, 5th Grade Choir, and runs the Student Council. She is married to Josh Marsh, a 5th Grade teacher. Together, they have 3 wonderful daughters. 13 year old twins and an 8 year old. This is Kristen's second time working with DCINY.

Mauldin Middle School Mustang Choir

Vanessa Tarter Rhodes
MMS Mustang Choir is honored to return to Carnegie Hall for their third encore performance with Distinguished Concert Series (DCINY). MMS Mustang Choir has received national recognition with consecutive Superior Ratings at Choral Festival Disney, 2017-2024. Mauldin Mustang Choir is an auditioned group of 55 singers. Students are selected for their focus, dedication, and willingness to work towards excellence. This choir was established in 1999 when the school opened, under the direction of Mrs. Rhodes. MMS Mustang Choir performs at least eight time per year. Their goal is to reach a higher level of artistry daily and with each performance!

Vanessa Rhodes is the Director of Choral & Theater Programs at Mauldin Middle School, Greenville County Schools, South Carolina. Related Arts Department Chair & former Teacher of the Year, she holds a B.A. in Music Education (Newberry College) M.Ed., (Converse College) and National Board Teacher Certification (Music-Early Adolescent/Young Adult). Mrs. Rhodes began her education career 42 years ago and serves as GCS Middle School Music Lead Teacher, 1996-present. She is a member of FBC-Simpsonville Proclaim Music Ministry. She is married to Battalion Chief B. K. Rhodes (retired) City of Greenville Fire Department, South Carolina. They enjoy traveling with their growing family! She is the proud member of The Crossfire Band of Upstate South Carolina.

Robert R Lazar Middle School Chamber Choir

Jordan Green
The Robert R Lazar Chamber Choir is a group of forty 7th and 8th grade singers, all of which attend Robert R Lazar Middle School in Montville, New Jersey. The group is in its third year of existence and has grown significantly since its start in 2022. The group is audition-based and includes some of our school's most dedicated and talented musicians.
Jordan Green has been the director of choirs at Robert R Lazar Middle School for the past five years. During his tenure, Green formed the Lazar Chamber Choir, which is an audition-based group of 40 talented 7th and 8th grade singers. Green aims to raise the bar at Lazar Middle school and inspire his students to find their voices. He hopes to develop their music and help them experience new things. Choir at Lazar is a community and a family.

SCAPA Middle School Choir

Amanda Lynn Wells
The School for the Creative and Performing Arts at Bluegrass (SCAPA) is a gifted and talented school in Lexington, Kentucky. SCAPA identifies giftedness in one of nine arts areas: ballet, band, contemporary dance, literary arts, drama, piano, strings, visual art, and vocal music. Students audition in one of these areas for admittance into the school, where demonstration of their artistic abilities is the sole determining entrance factor. The SCAPA Voice program is known for a strong foundation in vocal pedagogy, music reading, and music theory, as well as exceptional musical performances. The SCAPA Choirs receive distinguished ratings in choral and solo settings at the state level and have participated in the DCINY concerts in 2019 and 2022.
Amanda Lynn Wells was born and raised in Pike County, KY where she stayed very active with her school band, chorus, speech and drama team, and school theatre productions. She attended Morehead State University and gained knowledge in both instrumental and vocal music and obtained a BM and MME. She has worked as an elementary music teacher and middle/high school choir director in New York City Public Schools, Morgan County Public Schools (KY), Rowan County Public Schools (KY), and taught in higher education at Morehead State University as an adjunct professor in the KY Center for Traditional Music in traditional voice and the MSU Theater Department. Amanda received the KMEA District 8 Elementary Music Teacher of the Year Award in 2012 and the KMEA District 8 Middle School Music Teacher of the Year Award in 2014. Currently, she is the Vocal Director at SCAPA Bluegrass and works with SCAPA students at Lafayette High School with vocal coaching and Musicianship.

Weeki Wachee High School Angelite Singers

Amy Earnest
The Weeki Wachee Angelite Singers is a select group of musicians that have a passion for vocal music and a love of travel. The students have all received a Superior rating in the Florida Vocal Association Concert Music Performance Assessment this year. This is their first trip to Carnegie Hall.
Amy Earnest has a degree in Vocal Performance from SUNY Geneseo and a Masters of Music Education from the University at Buffalo. She has been teaching vocal and instrumental music for 15 years, and is the proud director of vocal music at Weeki Wachee High School in Florida. She is active in the local music scene as a member of The Hollingsworth Winds and The Festival Singers of Florida. She enjoys spending time with her baby boy Weston and her husband/best friend Travis.

Songbird

Please note: Tickets will be on sale 90 days before the concert.

Acts

Nancy Singla, Director

Cantala Choir

Also Featuring:

Asal Iranmehr, Piano

Special Guests

Artist's Name

Nancy Singla

Artist's Name

Asal Iranmehr

Press & Marketing

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Cantala Choir
Nancy Singla

Founded in 2008, CANTALA is an award-winning, vibrant young choral group in the Toronto, Canada choral community. Cantala is a “musical home” for those who have a passion for achieving choral excellence and a great love of choral music. Each Cantala singer values the quality of life that singing in a choir brings to one’s life. For the past 16 years, Cantala has enjoyed workshops with esteemed Canadian and international conductors. Cantala has participated in local festivals and has received many awards, scholarships, and accolades. Cantala has performed a solo recital at Roy Thomson Hall, toured New York city to perform with Eric Whitacre at Lincoln Center and attended the Banff Center for the Arts choral arts program. Now in its 17th season, Cantala is very excited to have the honor of presenting a solo recital on the stage of Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall. Cantala is also thrilled to announce that our newest recording release, Songbird, is now available through all online music streaming providers. This is Cantala’s 4th recording release and features all Canadian music. It has been generously financially supported, in part, by the Ontario Arts Council.

NANCY SINGLA, Cantala’s founder and artistic director, completed her Master’s in Music degree from the University of Toronto and Undergraduate studies in vocal and piano performance at the University of Victoria. She holds an Associate diploma in piano performance (ARCT) from the Royal Conservatory of Music and the Victoria Conservatory of Music (AVCM). Nancy completed her Master’s in Teaching (MT) degree from the Ontario Institute for Secondary Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto in Spring 2022 and is now teaching music in the Toronto District School Board.

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