About the Chorale
Currently directed by Jess Wade, III, the Brazos Valley Chorale pursues its commitment to excellence in choral music of all types. Today the Brazos Valley Chorale provides discerning audiences in Bryan/College Station, TX with performances of great choral music at the highest standards. The 100-voice Chorale is known and respected for its difficult and ambitious repertoire of great choral masterworks and contemporary classics. The singers form a cross-section of the community, from college students to retirees.
Mission Statement
The Brazos Valley Chorale is the preeminent choral organization in the region and is known for performing a wide range of classical and contemporary choral literature. We seek to be a major cultural force in the Brazos Valley by creating and satisfying a desire for quality choral music among our audience members, among the people of the Brazos County, and among choral music lovers everywhere. We are committed to meeting the need for quality music education and to providing opportunities for participation and growth to all singers.
Legacy of Achievement
The Brazos Valley Chorale was founded in 1969 as the Community Singers after a successful collaborative concert demonstrated a desire for such an organization. Its founding members envisioned a community choral group to fulfill a cultural need expressed by many singers and musicians residing in the area. The Chorale's outstanding record of achievement has expanded the audience of choral music and contributed to the growth of the arts in Central Texas. Over the years nearly a thousand singers have participated in our concerts. The ensemble has grown from a handful of dedicated volunteers to an auditioned choir of 90-120 musicians, from which soloists and small ensembles are selected as needed.
The Concerts
The Brazos Valley Chorale performs regularly with the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra in performances of some of the finest choral/orchestral repertoire available. The annual Pops concerts provide choral music in a lighter vein, and have become a favorite event in the community. Spring concerts are usually more traditional in nature, showcasing the music of the world's best known composers. Other concerts have included a variety of Christmas programs, participation in the Arts Council's activities, and unusual offerings such as special concerts for children and families.
Rehearsals
We rehearse on Monday evenings at the Brazos Center, from 7:30-9:30, with sectionals starting at 7:00. Members of the BVC Chamber Singers (an auditioned group of about 16 Chorale members) typically rehearse after the regular rehearsal until 10:00. Of course there are extra rehearsals right before concerts.
