State grants are awarded through a competitive process.  This grant signifies that the New Haven Chorale of 100 auditioned singers provides a high level of quality in its programs, community service and administrative ability.  The Chorale's 59th year exemplifies the group's commitment to creative programming, outstanding performances and efforts to provide educational opportunities and enhance participation in the arts.  The 2008-2009 season will include a holiday concert in New Haven's historic Trinity Lutheran Church with newly commissioned works as well as music by Bach and Haydn; a collaboration between the Chorale and guest choruses to benefit St. Martin de Porres Academy's music program; and in May 2009 a wish for world peace, including Szymanowsky's Stabat Mater and Vaughan Williams' Dona Nobis Pacem with the Hartt School choruses and orchestra.  These performances plus outreach at nursing homes, hospitals and at civic events will reach well over 2000 Connecticut residents this year.
 
The Chorale's Executive Director, Mary Benfer said of the funding "This grant makes a difference in our programming and outreach decisions, and it is significant recognition of our dedication to promoting the next generation of choral singers and composers in Connecticut, our innovative programming, and important community outreach." 
 

The Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism brings together tourism, film, history and the arts.  Its mission is to preserve and promote Connecticut's cultural and tourism assets in order to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of the state.  

Please visit us at www.newhavenchorale.org.