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
Click an item below to expand
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.
SOLAS: Foundations of Faith
Please note: Tickets will be on sale 90 days before the concert.
Acts
Sorenson: SOLAS (Carnegie Hall Premiere)
Sorenson: Requiem
Also Featuring:
Participating Groups
Special Guests
Artist's Name
Heather SorensonArtist's Name
Kevin KlotzArtist's Name
Heather Lake BaysArtist's Name
Layke JonesPress & Marketing
Click an item below to expand
Participating Group Directors
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.
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
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!