Verdi Chorus

The Verdi Chorus is a distinguished choral group with a focus on opera, based in Santa Monica, California. Established in 1983, the chorus began its journey at the old Verdi Ristorante di Musica, with the artistic direction of soprano Anne Marie Ketchum De La Vega, who is also known for her role as the former director of the Pasadena City College opera program. Dedicated to bringing the grandeur of opera choruses to the community, the Verdi Chorus performs two concert weekends each year, typically on Saturdays and Sundays, in addition to participating in various collaborative events. These performances provide a platform for both emerging and professional singers to showcase their talents. The Verdi Chorus prides itself on its dynamic and emotive performances, which encompass a wide range of operatic experiences. From the judgment of Egyptian priests to the revelry of Christmas Eve in Paris, from the laments of slaves in bondage to the celestial songs of angels, the chorus embodies the diverse expressions of the human condition. Their repertoire includes the works of Beethoven, Strauss, Puccini, Wagner, and, of course, their namesake Giuseppe Verdi, capturing the essence of the human heart in love through music. The organization is also committed to fostering the next generation of talent through initiatives such as The Fox Singers, The Sahm Foundation Apprentices, and various audition opportunities. The Verdi Chorus operates under the governance of a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council, ensuring that the chorus remains a vital and well-supported part of the cultural landscape. The Verdi Chorus has also embraced the digital age, maintaining an online presence through their website, which features a blog with articles, news, and insights into the world of opera. They also engage with their supporters through a mailing list and encourage community support through donations, as the chorus is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, making contributions tax-deductible as permitted by law. With a history spanning nearly four decades, the Verdi Chorus continues to celebrate and perpetuate the timeless beauty of opera, making it accessible to new audiences and maintaining a vibrant community of passionate performers and supporters.