Pasadena Chorale

The Pasadena Chorale is a community chorus based in Pasadena, California, with a mission to create choral music that educates, uplifts, and inspires as many people as possible. It was founded by Jeffrey Bernstein in 2009 and has since become a notable entity in the local arts scene, known for its affordable high-quality choral concerts and educational programs. Over its more than a decade of existence, the Pasadena Chorale has delivered over one hundred performances, establishing itself as a vital part of Pasadena's cultural community. The organization has been recognized for its artistic excellence, notably receiving second place in the American Prize in Choral Performance in 2017. The Chorale has a history of collaboration with various prestigious institutions, including the Pasadena Playhouse, MUSE/IQUE, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, and the Gamble House. These partnerships have contributed to the Chorale's reputation for quality and community engagement. Education is a cornerstone of the Pasadena Chorale's mission. Its signature educational initiative, Listening To The Future, is an annual project that provides local high school composers with the opportunity to work with a professional composer mentor. The program culminates in a concert featuring the students' compositions, performed by the Chorale. The Pasadena Chorale has received support from several local organizations, including the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, The Pasadena Community Foundation, and the City of Pasadena. This support has enabled the Chorale to adopt a unique "Listen First, Then Give" approach to its regular concerts, which allows attendees to experience the performances regardless of their ability to pay, while also encouraging donations from those who are able to contribute. Critical acclaim for the Chorale has highlighted the ensemble's blend, unity of tone, and careful attention to balance, with a review from Singerpreneur on May 1, 2017, praising these aspects as the foundational pillars of their performance. As an auditioned community chorus, the Pasadena Chorale continues to attract singers and staff who are committed to its vision of inclusivity and the transformative power of choral music. The organization remains dedicated to reaching a wide audience and fostering the next generation of musical talent through its ongoing programs and performances.