The Greater South Jersey Chorus’ eighteen- year history is distinguished by tremendous artistic growth, expanding audiences and increasing regional recognition for choral excellence. The Greater South Jersey Chorus (GSJC) is a mixed-voice, auditioned ensemble embracing repertoire from a diverse range of choral genres.  The Chorus has earned widespread acclaim for its beautiful sound and thoughtful interpretations and has been described as “one of the few extraordinary values in South Jersey” and “a South Jersey treasure”.  Musical highlights from previous seasons include Carmina Burana, Benjamin Britten’s St. Nicholas, Christmas Cantata, by Daniel Pinkham and a special Spring 2010 concert,“ From Earth to the Skies…Music of Song and Spirit”, a powerful and moving program of multi-cultural musical spiritual expression.
 

Established in 1992, the GSJC is approximately 90 voices strong.  The Chorus rehearses at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Cherry Hill on Monday evenings from September through May, with opportunities to perform in the Chamber Singers, as well as the full Chorus.  Members are auditioned and are drawn from over 40 communities throughout the Southern New Jersey and greater Philadelphia area.  The current membership is comprised of choristers ranging in age from teens to seniors with a vibrant mix of amateur and professional musicians.  All members are passionate choral singers and avid music lovers who generously contribute their unique artistry to the Chorus.  The GSJC is singer-organized and singer-managed, and all of its functions are administered by a Board of Trustees composed of members of the Chorus and community professionals.
 

The Chorus also performs from time to time with professional orchestra and ensemble musicians and acclaimed guest soloists drawn from the tri-state area.  In addition to its regular concert season, the GSJC has performed by invitation at Carnegie Hall for the Katrina relief effort, and, in April 2008 at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., in celebration of the rededication of the Americana Wing.  The GSJC has recorded two commercial CDs.  The most recent, The Greater South Jersey Chorus, A Choral Odyssey, released in 2008, is a compilation of select choral performances under Artistic Director Dean Rishel’s baton.