“Each [singer] sang in such a musical and passionate and elegant manner, which was compelling and moving ... [their] humanity and spirit were uplifting!”
—Augusta Read Thomas, composer
The mission of the Chicago Chamber Choir is to create experiences that engage our community in high-quality choral art. Our vision is to be Chicago’s preeminent avocational choral ensemble through diverse and innovative programming, excellence in artistry, and community enrichment.
The Chicago Chamber Choir's 40 singers come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are professional musicians, others are teachers, and still others have careers in fields as diverse as law and medicine. They are united through their passion for world-class choral singing.
The choir's repertoire is diverse and expansive; each program carefully curated, drawing from the immense collection of choral music throughout history and around the world. CCC has a special interest in contemporary choral music and how it speaks to the lives and values of modern singers and audiences.
The Chicago Chamber Choir is committed to extending our community beyond our singing members to other musicians, community partners, and our audience. We seek to use music to effect positive change in the world. Collaboration, with groups large and small, is part of that identity. Collaborating musical ensembles include CHAI Collaborative Ensemble, Youth Choral Theater of Chicago, and the Lakeview Orchestra. Community partnerships include the Chicago Historical Society and Night Ministry.
Our History
In 1996, Deborah Skydell organized rehearsals for a new 40-voice ensemble specializing in a cappella performance, guided by the philosophy that music should be available to everyone.
In 1998 Toria Burrell, a member of the ensemble and gifted musician, began building the organization we know today. Under Burrell’s leadership, the choir formed a Board of Directors and received its non-profit status — the Chicago Chamber Choir was born. Influenced by her British training, Burrell expanded the choir's repertoire of modern American and Eastern European composers to include a greater diversity of styles, still guided by the values of those first rehearsals: that music should be available to everyone.
Timm Adams joined the ensemble the following season and replaced Burrell as Artistic Director in January 2000. After 15 seasons with the choir, Adams retired as Artistic Director. His tenure was marked by innovative and evocative performances — blending musical excellence and theatrical drama.
In 2015, critically-acclaimed conductor Dr. Doreen Rao was appointed Artistic Director for Chicago Chamber Choir's 20th Anniversary Season. And in the 21st season Associate Conductor Amy Keipert led the choir as the search for a permanent Artistic Director continued.
In 2017, Chicago Chamber Choir selected Christopher Windle as their new Artistic Director. Windle is an accomplished conductor who leads ensembles throughout the United States — including the William Ferris Chorale. In his tenure, CCC has partnered with organizations throughout the city in both community and musical collaborations; and the choir has been recognized for its superb sound and artistry by organizations including the American Choral Directors Association and WFMT, Chicago’s classical music station.
Today, the Chicago Chamber Choir rests on a solid musical foundation and attracts seasoned and experienced singers to its competitive auditions. CCC presents three or four main concert series each year, collaborates with other Chicago-based arts organizations, performs at private and corporate events year-round, and continues to support community partners through song.