Finger Lakes Chorale
Founded in a Canandaigua storefront in 1971, Finger Lakes Chorale was led for nearly thirty years by Dr. A. John Walker, Professor Emeritus. During that time, the Chorale performed most major works of the choral repertoire and was host to numerous instrumentalists and vocal soloists, including a young Renee Fleming for performances of Johannes Brahms’ “German Requiem” in 1982. It was under the direction of Dr. Walker that the ensemble also traveled twice to Europe where they performed several concerts. Chorale has also performed with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and has sung back-up vocals twice for Barry Manilow.
Over the years there have been hundreds of singers from the Finger Lakes area that have enjoyed singing in the Chorale, and lasting friendships have been made. Current membership varies from 60 to 130 depending upon semester, and is representative of over twenty different towns and cities in the region.
If you love to sing, and would enjoy making music with a larger group, I’d like to encourage you to join!
Member Testimonials
Here is what members say about Finger Lakes Chorale
My fondest memories from high school were of the time I spent involved in the music department; chorus, band, dance band and orchestra. As my life progressed from college to career to family, my musical activities pretty much were relegated to playing the stereo ( at which I became quite proficient!). It was with delight that I discovered Finger Lakes Chorale some twenty seven years ago. I had finally found a way to recapture the joy of making music that had been missing from my life for so many years.
The Finger Lakes Chorale experience has provided countless hours of enjoyment, has exposed me to a large portion of the choral repertoire, has provided me with instruction and musical education and many enduring friendships. Finger Lakes Chorale is made up of a wonderful group of interesting people who love to come together to make music and entertain our audiences. The camaraderie is amazing.
The hours I have spent with this organization have been pure joy. I feel so fortunate to live in an area that supports and provides this group for our musical enjoyment.
Nels Carr
I first joined Chorale in the late 1980s. The first semester we were presenting Judas Maccabaeus by Handel. Boy, did I think I was out of my element, not having sung much since high school! However, gradually I became more comfortable with the music and the people and have enjoyed many years singing with Chorale since, not missing too many semesters in the last 20 years. It is a wonderful feeling to have the challenge of difficult music and feel it come together as the rehearsals progress. My growth as a musician and the many friendships I have formed are priceless!
Elaine Walker
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