OUR HISTORY

The Susquehanna Chorale, founded in 1981 by Artistic Director Linda L. Tedford, is widely recognized as one of the premier vocal ensembles in the mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Presenting programs of varied repertoire from many styles and time periods, the Chorale is noted for its velvet blend, passionate expression, and artistic excellence. The choir has performed world premieres of works from today’s finest composers, has been featured on the nationally broadcast First Art radio program, and was the first volunteer choir to receive the prestigious Margaret Hillis Achievement Award for Choral Excellence. Driven by its mission of “Enriching lives through song,” the Chorale’s dedication to the highest standards of the choral art creates an extraordinary musical experience for the listener, both in the concert hall and through its numerous recordings, four of which were formally considered for Grammy® nominations.

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The 40-voice auditioned choir has performed throughout the East Coast including engagements at the Washington National Cathedral, the Chautauqua Institution in New York, and conventions of the American Choral Directors Association. The Chorale regularly performs larger choral works with the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra. In addition, the choir has toured Great Britain, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany and commemorated the 40th anniversary of its founding with a concert tour of Ireland in 2022.

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The Susquehanna Chorale is deeply committed to developing future generations of singers and audience members through the power of music. Annual performances include a Youth Choral Festival, Candlelight Christmas concerts, and spring concerts in various locations. The Educational Outreach Program provides choral experiences for over 150 singers from third grade through the first year of college as well as a conducting internship for college music majors. In spring 2019, the Chorale began livestreaming concerts to reach those who would otherwise not have an opportunity to attend a performance.

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The Susquehanna Chorale is sponsored in part by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, the capital region’s Cultural Enrichment Fund, and additional corporate sponsors.