Colorado Children's Chorale

Colorado Children's Chorale
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Name	Colorado Children's Chorale
Founded	0 1974
Founder	Duain Wolfe
Type	Children's choir
Location	Denver, Colorado, United States
Artistic director	Deborah DeSantis
Website	https://www.childrenschorale.org/

Colorado Children's Chorale. Founded in 1974 by conductor Duain Wolfe, the Colorado Children's Chorale is a premier children's choir based in Denver. Recognized for its artistic excellence, the organization serves as a cultural ambassador, performing locally and internationally while providing comprehensive musical training to young singers across the Denver metropolitan area.

History

The Chorale was established in 1974 by its founding artistic director, Duain Wolfe, who previously worked with the American Boychoir. Its early growth was supported by key figures in the Colorado arts community, including patrons from the Boettcher Foundation. The ensemble quickly gained prominence, leading to its first major national engagement performing with the Denver Symphony Orchestra under conductor Brian Priestman. A significant milestone was its 1979 debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City, which established its national reputation. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Chorale expanded its touring profile, undertaking concert tours across Europe and Asia and appearing at prestigious venues like the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.. The organization has maintained a long-standing collaborative relationship with performing arts institutions such as the Colorado Symphony and Opera Colorado.

Organization and choirs

The Chorale operates a tiered ensemble structure designed to train singers from elementary through high school. The training begins with the Preparatory Choir for youngest members, progressing to the Concert Choir, and culminating in the elite Tour Choir, which represents the organization in major performances and tours. Additional specialized ensembles have included the Chamber Choir. The organization is headquartered at its own facility in the Curtis Park neighborhood of Denver and functions as a non-profit under the governance of a Board of directors. Its educational outreach includes the Side-by-Side program with the Colorado Symphony and partnerships with Denver Public Schools to provide music education in underserved communities.

Repertoire and performances

The Chorale's repertoire is vast and eclectic, spanning from Renaissance music and major oratorio works to contemporary commissions, folk music, and Broadway selections. It has performed masterworks such as ''Carmina Burana'' by Carl Orff and the War Requiem by Benjamin Britten with major orchestras. The ensemble is a frequent collaborator with the Colorado Symphony, including annual performances of Handel's Messiah and seasonal concerts. Notable theatrical performances include roles in productions with Opera Colorado and the Central City Opera. The Chorale has performed at the Aspen Music Festival and on international tours to countries including Japan, China, Austria, and the Czech Republic. It has also appeared on television broadcasts for PBS.

Artistic leadership

The founding Artistic Director was Duain Wolfe, who led the Chorale until 1994 before assuming the directorship of the Chicago Symphony Chorus. He was succeeded by Deborah DeSantis, who had served as Associate Conductor under Wolfe and became Artistic Director in 1995. DeSantis, a noted clinician and adjudicator for organizations like the American Choral Directors Association, has guided the Chorale's artistic vision for decades. The organization has also worked with renowned guest conductors and composers, including John Rutter and Morten Lauridsen, and has been led by notable accompanists and music educators throughout its history.

Notable alumni and impact

Alumni of the Colorado Children's Chorale have pursued successful careers across the arts and entertainment industries. Notable alumni include American Idol finalist and Broadway performer Justin Guarini, actress and singer Amy Pietz, and ''The Voice'' contestant Jake Worthington. The Chorale's influence extends to music education, with many former members becoming educators, conductors, and professional musicians. The organization's commitment to community engagement is evidenced by its longstanding partnerships with Denver Public Schools and its role in inspiring youth music programs nationwide. Its artistic legacy is cemented by numerous recordings and its contribution to the cultural landscape of the Rocky Mountains region.

Category:Children's choirs Category:Musical groups from Denver Category:Musical groups established in 1974 Category:1974 establishments in Colorado