Remembering Alan Harler

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Alan Harler, Mendelssohn Chorus's beloved Conductor Laureate and former Artistic Director. For over three decades, Maestro Harler transformed our organization into a leading voice in contemporary choral music, commissioning and premiering 58 new works while inspiring countless singers and audiences with his visionary artistry.


Alan's unwavering commitment to adventurous programming and his passion for nurturing emerging composers left an indelible mark on the choral world. His legacy lives on through the Alan Harler New Ventures Fund, which will continue to support the bold, innovative programming that defined his extraordinary tenure with us.


We invite you to watch this tribute video, created to honor Alan upon his retirement in 2015, and to celebrate the profound impact he had on our chorus family and the broader musical community.

Tribute Video

What People Are Saying About

Never One Thing

I was captivated by the conducting of Dr. Mitchell. The chorus was fully engaged with her and she guided them with skill, grace and beauty to produce one of the most luscious and complex sounds I have ever heard. It was like watching a beautiful swan! I look forward to her next concert!

Today’s program was just the healing balm needed right now as we enter a period of unnerving uncertainty.

It is rare to watch synchronicity and the symbiotic melding between musicians and their director. It was beautiful to experience as a listener. The diversity of the program certainly added to the entire experience with all of the conductors and musicians. So thank you.

It's Time

2024-2025 Season
  • Mass for the Endangered

    Saturday, October 26, 2024

    One performance * 4pm


    Church of the Holy Trinity

    1901 Walnut Street

    Philadelphia, PA 19103


    Learn more here.

  • A Feast of Carols

    Saturday, December 7, 2024

    Two performances * 2pm & 5pm


    Saint Paul's Episcopal Church

    22 E. Chestnut Hill Avenue

    Philadelphia, PA 19118


    Learn more here

  • Never One Thing

    Saturday, February 22, 2025

    One performance * 4pm


    Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral

    19 S. 38th Street

    Philadelphia, PA 19104


    Learn more here

  • On the Horizon

    Saturday, April 5, 2025

    One performance * 4pm


    Church of the Holy Trinity

    1904 Walnut Street

    Philadelphia, PA 19103


    Learn more here.

About Us

Our Mission is to foster artistry, beauty & belonging by singing together to illuminate shared human experiences.