Masterworks Chorale

Masterworks Chorale is an accomplished chorus in the Boston area.  The Chorale’s repertory includes the full range of classical and contemporary choral/orchestral masterworks, with a concentration in the Romantic era.

This year, the Chorale celebrates its 75th season.

The Chorale draws its singers, professional orchestra musicians and soloists from throughout New England. Its current Music Director/Conductor, Steven Karidoyanes, has led the Chorale since May of 2006.

Masterworks Chorale performs a three-concert series at Harvard University’s Sanders Theatre, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It also offers popular community “Messiah Sings” in December, and in the summer presents weekly “Summer Sings” of the choral masterworks that can be joined by all singers.

Founded as the Lexington Choral Society in 1940, three conductors led the chorus through its first dozen years: George Faulkner, Wilmer Bartholomew, and George W. Grant. Composer Lukas Foss guest conducted the ensemble in theBoston premiere of his American oratorio, The Prairie, in 1947.

Allen Lannom became the Chorale’s conductor in 1952 and led the Chorale for 53 years. Highlights of his tenure include performances with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, concert tours of Europe andMexico, and many premiers of new compositions.

In 1969, the organization’s name was changed to Masterworks Chorale to better reflect the geographic diversity of its membership and its contribution to the cultural life of greater Boston.

The Chorale was the centerpiece ensemble for the Great Woods Festival Chorus in 1986 and 1987, appearing with the Pittsburgh Symphony and Michael Tilson Thomas.

Mr. Lannom’s final concert concluded the Chorale’s 2004-2005 season.

Masterworks Chorale appointed Steven Karidoyanes Music Director in May 2006. Since his appointment, Karidoyanes has led the Chorale in notable performances of Anton Bruckner's Mass No. 2 in E minor, J. S. Bach's Mass in B minor, Saint John Passion and Saint Matthew Passion, the Requiems of Verdi, Brahms and Mozart, Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis, and Dvorak’s Stabat Mater.

The Chorale’s 75th season includes music commissioned by American composer Tom Vigneri, and a concert version of Bizet’s Carmen.

In honor of its 75^th season, and in looking forward to the next 75 years, the Chorale has this year launched its 75-for-75 campaign.  We hope you will consider supporting us in our goal to raise $75,000 for our 75^th anniversary to ensure that we can keep providing high-quality masterworks performances for your enjoyment!