VocalEssence Ensemble Singers is a classical music ensemble based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Founded in 1969 by Philip Brunelle, the ensemble has become one of the most renowned choral groups in the United States. Philip Brunelle, a native of Minnesota, founded VocalEssence Ensemble Singers with the goal of creating a professional choral ensemble that would perform a wide range of music, from classical to contemporary. Brunelle had previously founded the Plymouth Music Series in 1966, which was a community choir that performed in the Twin Cities area. With the success of the Plymouth Music Series, Brunelle decided to create a professional ensemble that would perform at a higher level. The ensemble's first performance was in 1969, and it quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality performances. The group's repertoire includes works by classical composers such as Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven, as well as contemporary composers such as Aaron Copland and John Adams. Over the years, VocalEssence Ensemble Singers has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the United States, including Carnegie Hall in New York City and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The ensemble has also toured internationally, performing in countries such as Japan, Russia, and Sweden. One of the highlights of VocalEssence Ensemble Singers' career was their performance at the inauguration of President Bill Clinton in 1993. The ensemble performed a piece by Aaron Copland, which was conducted by Brunelle. The performance was widely praised, and it helped to raise the profile of the ensemble. In addition to their performances, VocalEssence Ensemble Singers has also released numerous recordings over the years. Some of their most popular recordings include "Christmas with VocalEssence," which features traditional Christmas carols, and "Witness: The Music of Black Composers," which features works by African American composers. The ensemble has also received numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 1995, they received the Margaret Hillis Award for Choral Excellence from Chorus America, which is one of the highest honors in the choral world. They have also received several Grammy nominations for their recordings. VocalEssence Ensemble Singers is made up of some of the most talented singers in the United States. The ensemble has a core group of singers who perform regularly, as well as a larger group of singers who perform on a project-by-project basis. One of the most notable members of the ensemble is tenor Vern Sutton, who has been a member of VocalEssence Ensemble Singers since its founding. Sutton is known for his powerful voice and his ability to perform a wide range of music styles. Another notable member of the ensemble is mezzo-soprano Clara Osowski, who joined the group in 2016. Osowski has been praised for her rich, warm voice and her ability to connect with audiences. Overall, VocalEssence Ensemble Singers has had a long and successful career in the classical music world. With their high-quality performances, diverse repertoire, and talented singers, they have become one of the most respected choral ensembles in the United States.

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