VocalEssence hosts various small events throughout each season to engage and inform new audiences about the incredible work we do. Our largest event is our biennial gala fundraiser, which take place again in the Spring of 2022. Click the link below for more information. VocalEssence Gala 2024
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 →
Thank you for your interest in VocalEssence and all that we do—and are—as a leading arts organization. As we engage our community through our innovative choral programming, education programs, elder learning initiatives and choral advocacy, we have garnered many media mentions and reviews, some of which we have compiled. We offer press professionals access to the following… Read More →
Sing with us! On any given day, in towns both large and small, choirs across the country present hundreds of beautiful concerts. While audiences and choir singers alike have long understood the intrinsic value of singing together, the 2019 Chorus Impact Study commissioned by Chorus America also shows us that participation in choirs cultivates positive… 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 →
VocalEssence Learning & Engagement programs are specifically designed for people ages 0-100+ to connect, create, and learn across cultures. In each of our programs, we: Connect people with renowned choral experts —giving them the opportunity to learn directly from exceptional role models. Blend music and the study of cultures present in Minnesota’s diverse population. Provide… Read More →
Whether you are an experienced composer, a singer-songwriter interested in writing choral music, or a high school choir director who embraces the importance of creativity in programming, VocalEssence wants to engage you further in the choral arts. Check out these opportunities and join us in song. The American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota Creative Programming Award, sponsored… Read More →
The VocalEssence Board of Directors serve as ambassadors for the organization in the larger community. They also guide VocalEssence in all major policy decisions while ensuring the financial stability of VocalEssence. Board Officers Carolina Maranon-Cobos, President Program Manager, Institute for Advanced Study, University of Minnesota Torrie Allen, Vice President President and CEO, Arts Midwest Daniel Fernelius,… Read More →
Our staff is small but mighty. A combination of well-known leaders in the music industry, experts in non-profit management, and administrative dynamos, we ensure VocalEssence lives up to its reputation as one of the leading arts organizations in the nation. Take a minute to learn more about us. Artistic Staff (biographies) Philip Brunelle, Artistic Director… 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 →
Interview by John Birge, Minnesota Public Radio March 2, 2011 St. Paul, Minn. — How ironic. The man who wrote the book on spirituals hated spirituals a his first encounter! Back when Dr. Andre Thomas was the only black boy in an all-white Kansas school, he “shrank with embarrassment” when his high school choir sang… Read More →
Listen to Podcast on WCCO Radio Attachment Size Jearlyn-Steele-Podcast.mp3 7.23 MB
