Kalamazoo Choral Arts

==Kalamazoo Choral Arts== Kalamazoo Choral Arts (KCA), formerly known as The Kalamazoo Bach Festival, is a prominent choral organization based in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The organization underwent a rebranding to better reflect its evolving mission and identity, as articulated by its board of directors: to create, enrich, and transform the community through singing. This mission is underpinned by a commitment to a clearer identity, openness to an expanded repertoire and diverse audiences, and a core belief in the power of singing to unite people. ===History=== Kalamazoo Choral Arts has a storied history, with its roots dating back to 1946 when it was founded by Henry Overley, a Professor of Music at Kalamazoo College. The Bach Festival Society, as it was originally known, aimed to bring together the town and academic communities ('town and gown') through the shared joy of music-making, focusing particularly on the choral and instrumental works of J.S. Bach and his contemporaries. The organization's inaugural event was a performance of Bach's St. Matthew Passion in March 1947. Initially, the season comprised a Christmas concert and a spring festival week featuring distinguished guest artists. Over the years, the Festival expanded its scope, incorporating educational programs, master classes, and collaborations with other musical entities like the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra. The repertoire also grew to encompass not only works by Bach and his contemporaries but also compositions from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The organization's annual season culminated with the performance of a major symphonic choral work, showcasing pieces from composers like Mendelssohn, Mozart, Brahms, Haydn, and Rachmaninoff. ===Transformation and Rebranding=== As Kalamazoo Choral Arts celebrated its 75th anniversary, it recognized the need to adapt to the changing musical and cultural landscape. The organization acknowledged that its focus had shifted from solely Bach's works to a broader range of composers and musical styles. Furthermore, the concept of a festival was replaced by year-round concert offerings, and the term 'society' no longer accurately reflected the inclusive and diverse nature of its audience and participants. In embracing its role within Kalamazoo's rich musical tapestry, the organization rebranded itself as Kalamazoo Choral Arts, emphasizing its dedication to choral music through performances, outreach, and collaborations. ===Leadership=== Dr. Chris Ludwa serves as the Music Director of Kalamazoo Choral Arts, bringing his extensive experience in choral and orchestral conducting to the organization. He has been an advocate for various singing styles, ranging from contemporary a cappella to opera and musical theatre. Ludwa's leadership extends beyond conducting, as he has been actively involved in music education, community outreach, and arts administration. ===Performances and Community Engagement=== KCA Chorus is the heart of Kalamazoo Choral Arts, consisting of over 65 singers, including both volunteer members from Southwest Michigan and employed lead singers who also perform as soloists. The choir presents three concerts annually, celebrating themes such as the holiday season, the power of love, and springtime. These performances often involve collaborations with local chamber ensembles and symphony orchestras. Kalamazoo Choral Arts is committed to community outreach and supports various initiatives such as educational programs for students, competitions for young vocalists, and master classes. The organization's efforts are geared towards bringing together individuals of all ages and backgrounds to share in the joy and transformative power of choral music. ==External Links== * [Official Website of Kalamazoo Choral Arts] * [Kalamazoo Choral Arts on Guidestar] * [Recent Reviews and Previews of KCA Events in Local Media]