Chicago a cappella

Chicago a cappella is a non-profit organization devoted to furthering the art of ensemble singing without any instruments. The group of professional singers began in 1993 by Jonathan Miller[1] and conduct a series of performances annually. The organization displays a yearly subscription series for Chicago residents, produces studio recordings as well as live and broadcast-media musical content, and performs on tour and in special arrangements.[2] The ensemble is known for their outstanding vocal abilities, innovative programming, and have a reputation of being a leader within the choral field.[2] Expanding from a collection of a Gregorian chants to the Beatles and beyond, the singers are known for their wide repertoire including early works, vocal jazz, and spirituals. The ensemble is also a champion of performing works by living composers.

Chicago a cappella
Formation1993 (1993)
FounderJonathan Miller
Typenon-profit organization
PurposeA Cappella Ensemble Singing
HeadquartersChicago, Illinois, U.S.
Websitehttp://www.chicagoacappella.org/

Organizational History

The Artistic Director, Jonathan Miller, founded the ensemble in 1993 by performing as a low bass and directing rehearsals for the group’s first 14 seasons.[2] One of the founding ensemble members, Matthew Greenberg, joined the administrative staff in 1995 and presently serves as the organization's Executive Director.[2] In 2007, Patrick Sinozich became the ensembles first Music Director after being appointed by Miller.[2] In 2008, Miller was awarded the Louis Botto Award for Innovative Action and Entrepreneurial Zeal from Chorus America and was recognized for turning Chicago a cappella into a professional vocal ensemble.[2] The organization's audiences have actively grown since the ensembles formation and an ensemble of about ten singers typically perform in a wide array of concert programs each year in Chicago, Evanston, Naperville, and Oak Park, IL.[2] The ensemble has performed musical works from their world, national, and local premiere.[2] Chicago a cappella has presented new music from composers such as Joseph Jennings, Chen Yi, Stacy Garrop, Rollo Dilworth, Tania León, and Ezequiel Viñao.[2] Chicago a cappella has performed more than 350 concerts and assembled over 200 performances through its Chicago-based sequence.[2] When touring, the ensemble has performed in 13 different states throughout the United States and Mexico.[2] The group has been played regularly on WFMT radio and through broadcasts spread by American Public Media, including the award-winning radio show Performance Today.[2] The ensemble has made nine CD recordings of music extending from Renaissance masses to modern-day music.[2] Currently, the organization's administrative offices are located inside of the Athenaeum Theatre in Chicago.[2]

Community Outreach

Chicago a cappella undertook residencies in Chicago Public Schools during both the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 school years. In 2012, Chicago a cappella produced its first annual Youth Choral Festival and launched the ensemble’s High School Internship program for students looking for experience in performance and arts administration.[3]

High School Apprenticeship Program

The group's High School Apprenticeship Program offers high school students administrative and musical training with the group's musicians and staff.[3]

Youth Choral Festival

The Youth Choral Festival is an all-day workshop that brings together student ensembles from high schools around the Chicago area with Chicago a cappella's experienced singers and directors for a one-day series of master classes and workshops that ends with a cumulative performance from all ensembles.[3]

¡Cantaré! Chicago

¡Cantaré! Chicago was created in Minneapolis by VocalEssence but later partnered with Chicago a cappella to create a program where Mexican composers visit and teach in Chicago classrooms. The cross-cultural program was designed to generate a deeper knowledge of Mexican culture and strengthens the musical skills of elementary and high school students in Chicago. Chicago a cappella offers a resource guide and CD.[3]

Custom Outreach Programs

Chicago a cappella’s Education Outreach Program is for all singers and students in any age range and level of skill. The programs are taught by musical artists from Chicago a cappella’s professional singers and directors.[3] The Outreach Programs are designed based on the individual needs of each organization involved.[3] The three options that Chicago a cappella offers are master classes, choral residencies, and youth concerts.[3]

Non-profit Community Partner Program

Chicago a cappella collaborates with non-profit organizations to honor them during their concerts and educate the audience about the work each organization provides for their community.[3]

Discography

References
  1. "Chicago A Cappella at Singers.com - Vocal Harmony A Cappella Group". www.singers.com. Retrieved 2018-06-11.
  2. "About Chicago a cappella | About Us | Chicago a cappella". www.chicagoacappella.org. Retrieved 2018-06-11.
  3. "Community Outreach | Community Outreach | Chicago a cappella". www.chicagoacappella.org. Retrieved 2018-06-11.
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