Rehearsals Every Monday at Trinity Lutheran Church in Morris Plains
The Morris Choral Society (MCS), a respected community chorus, is inviting new singers to audition this fall. The group welcomes participants of all ages and backgrounds, creating a diverse and dynamic ensemble. Rehearsals will begin on September 8 at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Morris Plains. Interested singers can attend a rehearsal and call 973-723-6424 to schedule an audition.
MCS performs a wide range of music, which makes its concerts both exciting and unique. For example, the ensemble brings to life beloved classics such as Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus and Orff’s Carmina Burana. In addition, it explores more modern works, including the compositions of John Rutter and the humorous creations of PDQ Bach. This year, the Holiday Concert on December 14 at the Methodist Church on the Green in Morristown will showcase pieces by Robert Shaw, Dave Brubeck, Rachmaninov, and many others.
Leadership plays a key role in the group’s success. Music Director Michael Shane Wittenburg has earned praise as a “real virtuoso” from the late pianist Ruth Laredo. His international career includes a European debut conducting Puccini’s Turandot at the Romanian National Theatre of Opera and Ballet. Furthermore, he studied at the Eastman School of Music and the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga, working with renowned mentors such as Henry Charles Smith, David Effron, and Michael Jinbo.
MCS also benefits from the talent of accompanist Jennifer Yang. For more than a decade, she has served as the organist and accompanist at the Morristown United Methodist Church. Moreover, her award-winning career takes her around the world, where she performs solo recitals, chamber music, and choral concerts.
An Executive Board, led by President Elsie Donohue, oversees the society’s operations. The group thrives thanks to funding from Morris Arts and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a partner of the National Endowment for the Arts. The Masterwork Foundation also contributes important support. Additionally, the community helps sustain the chorus by donating online through credit card or PayPal.
To learn more about the Morris Choral Society, purchase concert tickets, or make a donation, visit www.morrischoralsociety.org.
