THE MASTERWORKS CHORALE is an ensemble of auditioned singers who enrich the cultural environment of metro-east with outstanding performances of significant choral literature. The Chorale sponsors the Masterworks Children’s Chorus which shares the same musical objectives of a disciplined and professional approach to the understanding and appreciation of music through musicianship, quality literature and performance.

The membership represents a six-county area in Illinois and Missouri and includes a wide variety of professions and musical backgrounds. Many members have music degrees, most have studied voice privately, and several are church organists, choir directors, or music teachers.

The Chorale was joined by the Dave Brubeck Quartet in 1982 for a performance of Brubeck’s The Gates of Justice. In 1985 the Chorale made its first European Concert Tour and that fall presented the Midwest premiere of a new critical edition of Mozart’s Requiem. In 1987 the Chorale was invited to join the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra and Chorus under maestro Leonard Slatkin to perform Berlioz’ monumental Grande Messe de Morts. And in 1993 the Chorale combined with the Bach Society of Saint Louis to perform Haydn’s The Creation at Powell Hall. In 1995 the Chorale commissioned and premiered Stephen Mager’s Sinfonia Pastorale.

Outstanding soloists who have appeared with the Chorale include soprano Erie Mills (1987 and 1999), tenor William McDonald (1988), Grammy award-winning narrator William Warfield (1989), mezzo soprano Nancy Maultsby (1989), Gospel composer/conductor Robert Ray (1994 and 1996), and soprano Christine Brewer (1983, 1985, 1988 and 1993). Since 1986 performances of the Chorale’s Christmas at the Cathedral concerts have reached a wide audience thoughout the greater St. Louis area through broadcasts on KFUO-FM CLASSIC 99.

Click here to see the Masterworks Chorale Repertoire
 

Adult singers interested in joining the Masterworks Chorale are invited to attend one of our Tuesday evening rehearsals. Previous experience and the ability to read music are both a plus! Call Christa Jenkins, Chorus Manager, at 618-628-9989 for more information.