Founded in 1951, the Erie Philharmonic Chorus has a storied history of providing high-quality choral music opportunities to singers around the Erie region. From collaborative performances with the Erie Philharmonic to independent concerts, the Chorus has become a part of many family traditions – from multiple generations of membership to yearly performances of Handel’s Messiah.
This past year has challenged the Chorus to stay engaged through an 18-month pause of rehearsals. However, after virtual happy hours, educational videos and virtual lectures covering topics from Harry Burleigh to Arthurian legends, rehearsals have officially resumed. The ninety singers, all distanced and masked, were excited to jump in to the repertoire that lays ahead this season, including Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, Handel’s Messiah, the well-loved show tunes of Rodgers & Hammerstein and more.
“We’ve been waiting for this moment for quite a while. It certainly has been a challenge getting everyone back together, but we’ve had great help from the Erie Philharmonic and the medical professionals in the Chorus. We finally get to do what we do best – make music together!”
Rehearsals aren’t just starting up for the Erie Philharmonic Chorus; weekly practices have also begun for the Junior Philharmonic Chorus and newly formed Youth Chorale. These ensembles, in partnership with the Episcopal Cathedral of St. Paul in downtown Erie, have drawn students from across the region and will include choral rehearsals and group piano lessons in a state-of-the-art Roland piano lab.
“Our students have a great opportunity to expand their horizons and become leaders in their own school ensembles. We’re finally establishing something that we’ve wanted for a while: ensemble opportunities for singers of all ages. It’s an exciting time.”
The Erie Philharmonic Youth Chorale, designed for students in second through eighth grade and conducted by Cathedral of St. Paul Music Director Sharon Downey, has wait-list spots available. The Erie Junior Philharmonic Chorus, made up of high school singers, still has spots available. To sign up for an audition, please click below:
The first performance for these three ensembles will take place at the Erie Philharmonic’s Come Home for the Holidays concert on Saturday, December 4.