Chorus of the Southern
Finger Lakes
The Chorus of the Southern Finger Lakes, directed by William Cowdery, is an enthusiastic community of volunteer musicians who perform with the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes. Boasting on average 60 voices, and for some performances up to 80, the Chorus makes it possible for us to perform some of the greatest musical works, such as Handel's "Messiah" or Mozart's "Requiem." If needed, a reduced chorus size may be used to accommodate the more intimate repertoire with finesse.
There's nothing quite like singing with a full symphony orchestra. The experience has been called "powerful," "life-affirming," and "breathtaking." Chorus members come back year after year to perform with the region's premier professional symphony orchestra. |
The entire Chorus typically performs twice each season with Maestro Toshiyuki Shimada and the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes:
The Holiday Concert at the Clemens Center in Elmira. The chorus sing carols and holiday favorites, as well as classics such as Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus and newly commissioned pieces such as The Miracle of Hanukkah by Avner Finberg.
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The Spring Concert at the Clemens Center in Elmira has featured classical works such as excerpts from Brahms’ German Requiem and favorite opera choruses including Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves from Nabucco by Verdi, and Toreador Song from Carmen by Bizet.
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Smaller subgroups from the Chorus prepare and perform for a variety of special events. Most recently an octet performed at Sparkle in Corning and at the Arts Council's Awards Ceremony. Previously a women's chorus subgroup performed on the opening concert with the OSFL in "Neptune," the final movement of Holst's The Planets.
Join the Chorus
Singers (adults and teens) are invited to join the Chorus of the Southern Finger Lakes. For more information, call the OSFL Office at (607) 936-2873 or email Chorus Manager, at [email protected]. Weekly rehearsals are Tuesday evenings at 7:00 beginning September 10, 2024. To learn more about upcoming concerts and rehearsal schedules, follow us on Facebook or sign up for the OSFL e-newsletter. Chorus Concerts with the Orchestra for 24-25 December 14, 2024 Handel's Messiah, music from Home Alone and holiday favorites for the "Holiday Traditions Together" concert. March 9, 2025 TOGETHER WE ARE SOUND Leonard Bernstein's Chichester Psalm Vaughan Williams Serenade to Music Other Chorus Concerts Vocal Colors June 1, 2025 at 3 PM at the Park Church in Elmira, NY The full chorus, small ensemble "Noteworthy," and various soloists will perform in concert with piano accompaniment. Enjoy a variety of styles and colors including choral classics, show tunes, art songs, vocal jazz, and more. Don't miss this entertaining and colorful concert! |
Photo credit Brenda Kittleson
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