VocalEssence WITNESS is one of the nation’s premier initiatives celebrating the contributions of African Americans to our shared American heritage through concerts, recordings and comprehensive educational programs. Please visit the VocalEssence WITNESS Program History page to learn more about the background and inspiration behind the program. VocalEssence WITNESS School Program offers online workshops with experienced Teaching… Read More →
Through VocalEssence ¡Cantaré!, selected composers from Mexico participate as artists-in-residence with elementary schools, high schools, colleges, and community organizations. The composers work directly with student choirs and community choruses throughout the year, becoming familiar with the ensembles and writing new music specifically for each. At the end of the school year, community and school partners present… Read More →
Leonardo Dreams of His Flying Machine (Eric Whitacre) My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord (Moses Hogan) La Cucaracha (arr. Robert Sund)
After more than 50 years of championing the power act of singing together, VocalEssence has been recognized by organizations around the world. We received the ASCAP/Chorus America Award for adventurous programming of contemporary music six times and has been honored with more Chorus America awards than any other ensemble nationwide, including the once-in-an-organizational-lifetime Margaret Hillis… Read More →
From ushering at our concerts to assisting with special projects throughout the year in our office, VocalEssence is grateful for the talents and support of our many volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out our general interest form. To see current volunteer opportunities and sign up, view our volunteer job calendar. … Read More →
Founded in 1969, Minneapolis-based VocalEssence has decades of history as one of the world’s premier choral music organizations. But despite its global influence, VocalEssence has kept its focus local—consistently pioneering ways to strengthen Minnesota’s community through thrilling musical experiences. What We Do At VocalEssence, we engage people of all ages and cultures in our community… Read More →
For 50 years, VocalEssence has been a leader in fiscal responsibility in Minnesota. We have never ended a fiscal year with a deficit. Below are links to our recent audits and 990s. If you have questions about our financial information, please contact: Mary Ann Aufderheide | Executive Director info@vocalessence.org 612-547-1451 Downloadable PDF Size VocalEssence FY2021… Read More →
These annual reports describe the many ways VocalEssence is impacting the community through song. Click the button below to see the 2021-2022 Annual Report as well as some of the most recent reports for VocalEssence. 2021-2022 Annual Report 2018-2019 Annual Report (PDF) 2017-2018 Annual Report (PDF) 2016-2017 Annual Report (PDF) 2015-2016 Annual Report (PDF) 2014-2015… Read More →
The VocalEssence name is synonymous with excellence in choral performance. Internationally, our choruses are recognized for their flawless sound, innovative programming, and commitment to today’s composers. Closer to home, our concert series have been a well-known Minnesota tradition for more than 50 years. Learn more about VocalEssence performing ensembles: VocalEssence Chorus—Our 110-voice chorus was called… Read More →
Since 1969 VocalEssence has been championing new music and unearthed forgotten gems to continue to refresh the choral experience. Since our inception, we have commissioned more than 300 new songs and performed more than 500 premieres! Check out our music through a variety of ways below. Commissions: Browse our list of commissions over the past… Read More →
Singing has always been a community activity. For generations upon generations, people have come together in song to celebrate, mourn, praise, and inspire each other. For nearly half a century, VocalEssence has been dedicated to keeping that essential human tradition alive. With exhilarating concert performances, ground-breaking educational programming, and tireless advocacy for choral music, VocalEssence… Read More →
By Ross Raihala Posted: 3/8/2013 Pioneer Press/TwinCities.com VocalEssence has announced its 45th season and no one is happier to hit that milestone than founder and artistic director Philip Brunelle. “For me, it means I’m halfway to 90 years,” he said. “I’m going to do this forever. There’s so much more choral music that needs to… Read More →
Review by: Basil Considine for TC Daily Planet Posted on: March 24, 2014 Central Lutheran Church in downtown Minneapolis had a festive atmosphere Friday night, as VocalEssence presented “John Rutter Jubilee,” a powerful tribute to the dean of English choral music. The program, organized by VocalEssence music director Philip Brunelle, offered a wide survey of… Read More →
By William Randall Beard Special to the Star Tribune Posted: March 22, 2014 VocalEssence kicked off its three-day concert series celebrating the music of John Rutter on Friday night. Many filled the pews early to hear a discussion of the musical program and VocalEssence’s upcoming 2014-2015 season. One of the originally planned features of this concert was that… Read More →
