What people are saying about
Joyful Abundance
As part of ArtPhilly: What Now: 2026—a city-wide festival celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of our country—this concert asks vital questions about America's past, present, and future through the voices of a new generation of artists.
Joyful Abundance represents more than a concert—it's our answer to What Now? Through mentorship with established Philadelphia composers and poets these emerging voices have crafted works that illuminate shared human experiences while celebrating our city's varied creative landscape.
Joyful Abundance launches what will become a permanent bi-annual program, funded in part by the Alan Harler New Ventures Fund, supporting Philadelphia's emerging composers and poets, creating a lasting legacy that extends far beyond this season.
That was one of the best concerts I have been to in Philadelphia, EVER.
Great to have composers and poets be present and speak to the audience. ...focusing on “emerging” Philadelphian artistic collaborations was thrilling and also helped diversify the audience.
This was such a revelatory experience for me. I was so impressed at how the chorus brought so much passion and magic to life.
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 the live stream of his Celebration of Life held on April 12, 2026.
Vigil for Love
Watch the U.S. Premiere of Dominick DiOrio's "Vigil for Love" with words by Kyle Connor.
What People Are Saying About
Vigil for Love
This was our first MCP concert. We were very impressed with the performance and we will certainly come again!! Bravo!!!
The overall programming was a delightful pairing of Dominick's/Kyle's Vigil for Love and the Chorus' entertaining staging & voices for Dido and Aenaes.
I got chills giving in to the music of Vigil for Love.
Mendelssohn Chorus of PHiladelphia
Supporters
Mendelssohn Chorus of Philadelphia is grateful to the following grantmakers for their support of our 2025-2026 Season.
