Genre

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Choral

 

The American Repertory Singers is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their stunning performances for over two decades. Founded in 1999 by conductor and artistic director, Dr. Steven Zopfi, the ensemble has become known for their exceptional musicianship and innovative programming. Dr. Zopfi, a renowned choral conductor and educator, had a vision to create a professional-level ensemble that would perform a wide range of choral repertoire, from early music to contemporary works. He handpicked a group of talented singers from the greater Los Angeles area, and the American Repertory Singers was born. The ensemble's core members have remained relatively stable over the years, with some changes due to members moving or retiring. The current roster includes sopranos Sarah Brauer and Emily Brown, altos Jennifer Lindshield and Sarah Smith, tenors David Castillo and Michael Hix, and basses Michael Dean and David Stoneman. One of the highlights of the American Repertory Singers' career was their performance at the 2002 American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Western Division Conference in Tucson, Arizona. The ensemble was selected to perform as one of only six choirs from the western United States, and their performance was met with critical acclaim. In 2004, the ensemble released their debut album, "Ave Maria," which featured works by composers such as Palestrina, Victoria, and Bruckner. The album received rave reviews and was praised for the ensemble's impeccable blend and expressive singing. The American Repertory Singers have also collaborated with other renowned musicians and ensembles, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Master Chorale, and the Pacific Symphony. In 2010, they performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a production of Benjamin Britten's "War Requiem" at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. In addition to their performances, the American Repertory Singers are also committed to music education and outreach. They regularly hold workshops and masterclasses for local high school and college choirs, and have also performed at schools and community events throughout Southern California. Over the years, the American Repertory Singers have received numerous awards and accolades for their exceptional performances. In 2006, they were awarded the prestigious Margaret Hillis Award for Choral Excellence by Chorus America, a national organization that supports and promotes choral music. In 2015, the ensemble was invited to perform at the ACDA National Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, where they once again received high praise for their performance. They were also named the 2015 Chorus America/ASCAP Adventurous Programming Award winner for their innovative programming and commitment to performing new and lesser-known works. The American Repertory Singers continue to be a leading force in the choral music world, with their exceptional musicianship and commitment to excellence. Their innovative programming and dedication to music education and outreach have made them a beloved ensemble in the Southern California community and beyond.

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