About Us
Charlotte Master Chorale is an auditioned chorus that performs an annual season of masterworks and contemporary works primarily in the Charlotte region. We are the resident chorus of the Charlotte Symphony, and operate as an independent, nonprofit performing arts organization.
In 1951, a group of Charlotte singers, under the direction of Earl F. Berg, founded the Oratorio Singers of Charlotte. The founding members envisioned a group that would perform great choral masterpieces, especially large-scale choral-orchestral works. The first concert, held at Myers Park United Methodist Church, was a production of Handel'sJudas Maccabaeus. The performance included 68 singers and was sponsored by the local chapter of the American Guild of Organists.
At the conclusion of the 1992-1993 Season, the Boards of the Oratorio Singers of Charlotte and the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra merged the two organizations. The combined organizations were now able to produce large-scale choral works previously beyond the scope of either individual group.
In the fall of 2015, the name of the chorus changed to Charlotte Symphony Chorus. Then in the fall of 2018, the organization became an independent performing arts organization and changed its name to the current Charlotte Master Chorale. We remain the resident chorus of the Charlotte Symphony.
Our Choruses
Charlotte Master Chorale
The Charlotte Master Chorale is made up of approximately 130 volunteer singers, many of whom hold graduate degrees in music. Membership is by audition with the Artistic Director and staff.
Chamber Singers
The Charlotte Master Chorale Chamber Singers is a smaller ensemble of voices from the main chorus selected through a competitive audition process. The ensemble has performed at Piccolo Spoleto Festival in Charleston, among others.
Directors
Dr. Kenney Potter, 2015–present
Dr. Scott Allen Jarrett, 2004–2015
Mr. David Tang, 1996–2004
Dr. Hugh F. Floyd, 1993–1995
Dr. Mary Nell Saunders, 1981–1993
Mr. Donald Plott, 1961–1981
Earl F. Berg, 1951–1960