Chorus Information

 

Chancel Choir (First Presbyterian Church of Oakland)

Ronald McKean, Music Director & Organist

Information last updated: 2008-07-11
Status: Current

Basic Information

Description: This is a volunteer special interest chorus open to the general public, who are urged to come and participate.
Web Address: http://www.firstchurchoakland.org/index_files/Page
Year Estab: 1914
Mission: To serve as ministry in worship at church, and to serve the community of Oakland. This is not just a private church choir, but a real community choir which welcomes all. The choir does not focus on nearby residents. People come from all over to sing, and all feel at home.
Emphasis: No specialty. The conductor's personal interest is early music to Mozart and modern. He composes in a style similar to Stravinsky, Hindemith or Prokofiev, but tonal, not atonal. The conductor works these musical interests into the Chancel Choir musical selections where possible. He has in the past been commissioned to write for choral groups. He suits his music to the group and the occasion.
Size: http://www.firstchurchoakland.org/index_files/Page
Concerts/Year: 2 to 3
Auditions: Not really--rather, interviews. " The conductor asks for a commitment of time and regular attendance--he wants to get to know you and what your musical interests are, so "interviews " are held at any time. The audition does not require a solo. The conductor sees how the singers fit in with the group, and then checks to see how they can go up and down the scales a few times. But, almost anyone who can sing at all is welcome to join. "
Dues: No
Dress: Robes
Rehearsals: Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., First Presbyterian Church Of Oakland, 2619 Broadway at 27th, Oakland

Categories

Type of Music: Classical
Church/Sacred
Contemporary
Early Music
Christmas
Type of Chorus: Mixed Adult
Church
Holiday
Rehearse City: Oakland
Region: Alameda County West
Audition Req'd: Y

Chorus Contact Information

Mailing Address: First Presbyterian Church Of Oakland, 2619 Broadway at 27th, Oakland, 94612
Phone: (510) 444-3555
Fax: 510-444-7615

Other Information

Comments: The conductor hopes that many people will join the choir. He wants to develop a really good chorus, and wants many people to come and join in for a Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols. The conductor would like this choir to be a real community group."