A Summary of the Organization and its Activities

Mission
Bach Choir of Pittsburgh is dedicated to:

• Disciplined training and education of musicians in the art of choral singing,
• Study and rehearsal of choral literature representative of a variety of significant
  musical traditions, and
• Performances of the highest artistic quality

for the purpose of stimulating greater enjoyment, appreciation, and understanding of choral music by as many segments of society as possible.

History
Since its inception in 1934, Bach Choir of Pittsburgh has evolved from an organization devoted exclusively to the study and performance of the works of Johann Sebastian Bach to a large concert choir that performs choral works by many composers, from the Renaissance to the twenty-first century. Under the leadership of Thomas Douglas, the Choir has grown to over 100 singers and has gained distinction for its innovative, educational and critically acclaimed programming.

Programs
Bach Choir of Pittsburgh produces a three-program concert season, with multiple performances of each program in locations throughout Allegheny and surrounding counties. In support of the season, Bach Choir holds semi-annual open auditions to fill choir member positions; contracts rehearsal and performance space, and produces a season brochure and concert-specific marketing materials. Bach Choir engages professional musicians in support of concert activities, and actively pursues concert engagements throughout the tri-state area, including free and reduced-admission performances in under-served and economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Recordings
Bach Choir has five compact discs (CDs) to its credit, two of which feature the choral music of contemporary composer Mack Wilberg. The Choir released its third CD -- To Music -- in October 2001, followed by a holiday release -- What Sweeter Music -- in November 2001.

The latest CD - Cantate Hodie was released in September 2002 achieving international attention through its distribution by the Clarion label. Cantate Hodie has exceeded sales expectations requiring a re-release in May 2003. Cantate Hodie features world premieres commissioned for Bach Choir by hometown composers Glenn Rudolph and Joseph W. Jenkins, Canadian Kieren MacMillan, and nationally recognized composers Stephen Paulus and Mack Wilberg.
Cantate Hodie was made possible in part by the generous support of the National Endowment for the Arts.

Artistic Accomplishments
The Choir is critically acclaimed for its innovative, precise, and entertaining concert performances. Local music critics commend the Choir for handling "tricky work not only with technical skill, but with spirit and seeming inspiration." They praise Artistic Director Thomas Douglas as well. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette says "One has to admire Artistic Director and Conductor Thomas Douglas for thinking out of the proverbial box when it comes to choral music". And the Tribune-Review raves, "Douglas is shaping the choir into a Pittsburgh musical force!".

 

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