Chorus of the Southern Finger Lakes
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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. |
Join the Chorus!
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The entire Chorus typically performs twice each season with Maestro Toshiyuki Shimada and the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes:
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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 and recently written pieces such as Dances in Freygish by Avner Finberg.
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The Spring Concert 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.
Upcoming Chorus Performances
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The Magic of Holiday Traditions Together
Saturday, December 13 at 3:00 PM Clemens Center, Elmira A favorite community tradition! Bring on the cheer as the Orchestra and Chorus are joined by jazz pianist Christian Li and the Corning Painted Post Choristers. Featuring holiday classics Angels We Have Heard on High, Joy to the World, Sleigh Ride, and more. Avner Finberg’s Dances in Freygish adds a spirited burst of cultural celebration.
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The Creation by Haydn
Saturday, May 2 at 7:00 PM The Park Church, Elmira Experience the awe and majesty of Haydn’s masterpiece, The Creation (in English), a musical journey from chaos to light, brought to life by full orchestra, chorus, and soloists. Inspired by the Book of Genesis and Milton’s Paradise Lost, The Creation is a feast for the senses—and a triumphant celebration of life, nature, and the divine.
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For more information on this season's full concert lineup, check out the full calendar of events here.




