Greetings!

As my time as Board Chair draws to a close on June 30th, I find myself filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude—gratitude for this extraordinary organization, for the music it brings into the world, and for each of you who make it possible.

Eight years ago, I joined the Board of Mendelssohn Chorus of Philadelphia as someone who had been introduced to choral music through MCP itself. I did not come in as a lifelong chorister or a seasoned arts administrator. I came as a listener, a believer, and someone whose world had been opened up by the music this chorus makes. And in the years since—two of them as your Board Chair—that sense of wonder has never faded.

Each season, program and piece excites me as I’m hearing something new. The artistry of the singers amazes me, and that they share their gift with the world. And working with Dominick DiOrio and Flo Gardner have shown me what the combination of leadership, compassion and artistry can create. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated milestones, and laid the groundwork for an even bolder future.

As I pass the baton to longtime singer and incoming Board Chair John Kohlhas, I do so with complete confidence. John brings to this role not only the perspective of someone who has stood on stage and felt the music from the inside, but a deep, abiding love for this chorus and everything it represents. Mendelssohn Chorus is in extraordinary hands.

But none of this is possible without you. Your support—whether you give $25 or $2,500 —is what allows us to commission new works, engage world-class soloists, nurture emerging artistic leaders, and bring the transformative power of choral music to Philadelphia and beyond.

As we close out this remarkable 152nd season and look ahead to the next, I am asking you to make a gift today. Invest in the music. Invest in the singers. Invest in an organization that has been enriching this city for over a century and a half—and that is only just getting started.

You can make your gift online HERE or by sending your gift to us in the mail (at 1901 S. 9th Street, Space 609, Philadelphia, PA 19148). Every gift, at every level, makes a difference.

With deepest gratitude and great excitement for what lies ahead,