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"We Believe... that in a world of political, economical and personal disintegrations music is not a luxury but a necessity - not simply because it is "therapeutic," nor because it is the "universal language," but because it is the persistent focus of man's intelligence, aspiration and goodwill."
- Robert Shaw
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Welcome to our 60th season!
With the forward-looking words above, conductor Robert Shaw began a grass-roots revolution in American music in the 1940's, founding chorales like New Haven's to improve choral performance nationally and enrich communities culturally. Our founder, Alden Hammond, a Shaw protege who graduated from Yale on the GI Bill, realized the power of Shaw's vision to inspire people and create community here in New Haven in 1950, and so we began singing for our city.
As we enter our 60th season serving New Haven, we reflect on Shaw's timeless words and their relevance for us in the 21st century. Like the post-WWII era when Shaw began, ours is a time of uncertainty and risk, yet also of opportunity for those with passion and wision. Once again, challenges demand both enduring values and new strategies. Hopes arise for peace on earth and good will among all people.
Choral music unites the poetries of word and sound as no other medium can to articulate our dreams and aspirations. In changing times it satisfies unchanging human needs for reflection, celebration and inspiration. Through sharing choral music we can uplift our collective vision.
So our concerts this season reflect on "Origin, Identity, and Destiny," - where we came from, who we are, and where we are going. In November, we discover our art's Baroque origins in Handel's Alexander's Feast about the power of song to persuade and inspire. In February, we celebrate great voices that give us our national identity through song. In May, we explare Hispanic music's blend of classical and folkloric that demonstrates rich potential for cultures coming together.
We are proud of how far we have taken Shaw's mission in 60 years, yet we have only just begun to sing. We are hard at work preparing choral music in new ways for each generation, expanding community participation and outreach, making our music relevant, fun and inspiring, and searching for new possibilities for choral music and choral musicians.
Please join us this season as we continue "Celebrating Song, Creating Community, and Changing Lives" for New Haven and it's greater community.
Edward Bolkovac, Music Director
Mary Benfer, Former Executive Director
Emily Oetjen, President
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