Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

The St. John's Episcopal Cathedral Boys' and Girls' Choir is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their angelic voices for over a century. Founded in 1901, the choir has become an integral part of the St. John's Episcopal Cathedral in Denver, Colorado, where they perform regularly for the congregation and visitors alike. The choir was founded by the then-rector of St. John's Episcopal Cathedral, Reverend Frederick W. Oakeley, who was a passionate advocate of choral music. He believed that music was an essential part of worship and that it could help to elevate the spirit and bring people closer to God. With this in mind, he established the choir as a way to provide young people with the opportunity to learn and perform classical music in a religious setting. The choir started with just a handful of boys, but it quickly grew in size and popularity. In 1920, the girls' choir was added, and the ensemble became known as the St. John's Episcopal Cathedral Boys' and Girls' Choir. Over the years, the choir has had many talented members, some of whom have gone on to become professional musicians and singers. One of the most notable members of the choir was Robert Shaw, who joined as a boy soprano in the 1930s. Shaw went on to become one of the most celebrated choral conductors of the 20th century, leading the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and founding the Robert Shaw Chorale. Another notable member was Paul Salamunovich, who joined the choir as a boy alto in the 1940s. Salamunovich went on to become a renowned choral conductor and educator, leading the Los Angeles Master Chorale for over 25 years. The choir has performed at many prestigious venues and events over the years, including the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., the Kennedy Center, and the Aspen Music Festival. They have also toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe, sharing their beautiful music with audiences around the world. One of the choir's most memorable performances was at the funeral of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The choir was invited to sing at the funeral by Jacqueline Kennedy, who had heard them perform at St. Matthew's Cathedral in Washington, D.C. The choir's rendition of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" was a moving tribute to the fallen president and has become one of the most iconic moments in the choir's history. The choir has also received many awards and accolades over the years. In 1993, they were awarded the prestigious Margaret Hillis Award for Choral Excellence by Chorus America, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the choral arts. They have also been featured on numerous recordings, including a Grammy-nominated album of Christmas music. Today, the St. John's Episcopal Cathedral Boys' and Girls' Choir continues to inspire and delight audiences with their beautiful music. Under the direction of Dr. Gabriel Crouch, the choir has continued to uphold the tradition of excellence established by Reverend Oakeley over a century ago. They perform regularly at St. John's Episcopal Cathedral and at other venues throughout the Denver area, sharing their love of music and their faith with all who hear them.

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