Chicago Artists Chorale Presents Inaugural Concert Tonight

The Chicago Artists Chorale, a new group of more than 50 members primarily from the area's theatre community, will present its inaugural concert tonight, Dec. 16 at the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple. A smaller 20-member Chicago Artists Ensemble also will sing at the 7:30 p.m. concert.

Led by Artistic Director Tom Vendafreddo, the Chorale is the brainchild of the familiar performer and music director as well as Associate Artistic Director Devin DeSantis, another familiar Chicago-area professional musical theatre actor. In the summer, backstage during an intermission of Godspell, they lamented that they missed the choral ensemble experience and musicianship they gained performing in choirs in college and earlier. Soon thereafter, the Chorale formed.

"Our group represents musicians, actors, directors, stage managers, designers and others in the theatre community interested in enhancing their level of musicianship and to have a consistent artistic outlet in which to sing," said Vendafreddo, resident music director at The Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Added DeSantis: "We're eager to introduce various types of music and broaden both singer and audience."

In the mid-December concert, the Chorale will perform works by Britten, Mozart, Paletrina, Viadana, Lauridsen and celebrated Northfield composer Gary Fry, among others. A smaller ensemble of 20 voices from the Chorale led by DeSantis will sing works by Byrd, Daley and Duruflé. There will be a special prelude beginning at 7pm by the Chicago Temple Bell Choir.

"We hope to develop a supportive following of those who love and cherish choral music as we do," added Company Director Stephen Schellhardt, a multiple Joseph Jefferson Award nominee. Production manager is classical vocalist Lauren Iezzi.

The Chicago Temple is located at 77 W. Washington Street, second floor, in the Loop. Tickets may be purchased online for $25 at www.brownpapertickets.com or at the door for $30. Tickets are $10 for students and members of the theatre industry. For more information, email the Chorale at chicagoartistschorale@gmail.com.