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Chorus/Chamber Singers
THE YORK SYMPHONY CHORUS
The York Symphony Chorus debuted on March 17, 1959, fifteen years after Mary Sieker started planting seeds for the group within the local music community. The first performance included 113 voices singing “The Messiah” on the 250th anniversary of Handel’s death.
Adam Hamme was the Chorus’ first Director. In 1970 Ralph Woolley was named Chorus Director and he remained until 1979 when Mr. Ronald Dietz became the Director. Mr. Dietz remained Director for twenty-one years when Dr. Stephen Barton was named Chorus Director in 2000. In 2006, Dr. Robert Hart Baker accepted the position of Chorus Director in addition to conducting the York Symphony Orchestra.
There are approximately 100 members in the Chorus representing a wide range of occupations and ages. Rehearsals are held weekly from September to May. Auditions for new members are held twice a year. For information about the Chorus or auditions, call the YSO Office at (171) 812-0717.
THE YORK SYMPHONY CHAMBER SINGERS
The York Symphony Chamber Singers were formed in 1982 by Mr. Ronald Dietz. His goal was to bring the finest in choral music to the greater York Community. Members of the Chamber Singers are selected by audition and are also members of the York Symphony Chorus. Dr. Robert Hart Baker presently serves as the Artistic Director of the Chamber Singers.
In their twenty-five years, the Chamber Singers have presented a musical repertoire that encompasses sacred and secular music from all types, styles and periods. The group has performed locally as well as in such varied locations as St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, historic Bruton Parish Church in Colonial Williamsburg, historic St. Paul’s Church in Petersburg, Virginia, the National Institutes of Health, Longwood Gardens, Mystic Seaport, St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Long Island and Washington National Cathedral. They have been featured with various artists from Peabody Conservatory, Canatate Carlisle, The York Oratorio Society and the York Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.
The singers have made a commitment to include in their programs a substantial portion of music arising from our rich American heritage. Most of their selections are performed a capella. For information on the Chamber Singers or engaging the group, call the YSO office at (717)812-0717.
