Mission Statement
The Elgin Master Chorale unites voices to inspire, educate, and entertain through the power of live choral music.
Vision Statement
We aspire to be the leading destination for choral excellence in our community, delighting audiences with our passion, musicianship, and repertoire. We envision a future where our performances inspire, uplift, and unite people from all walks of life, fostering a deep appreciation for the power of music to enrich lives and strengthen bonds within our community through dedication to artistry, innovation, and inclusivity.
ADEI Statement
We believe great music comes from diverse backgrounds and experiences, uniting us all. EMC is committed to fostering inclusion by diversifying our membership, patronage, board leadership, and repertoire. We aim to reflect the world around us, ensuring our performances showcase the richness of shared humanity.
A Legacy of Excellence. Inventing a Vibrant Future.
For nearly 80 years, the Elgin Master Chorale has united voices to inspire, educate, and entertain our community through the power of live choral music. Our 85 auditioned singers proudly share choral masterworks and innovative repertoire that moves audiences and enriches the cultural landscape of the Fox Valley.
We believe music creates joy, connection, and belonging. Through transformative performances, vibrant collaborations with leading performing arts partners, and meaningful community engagement, EMC ensures that everyone has access to exceptional choral experiences.
We also invest in the future of music through the Elgin Youth Choir, expanding access to quality music education and providing young singers with confidence, leadership skills, and a place to belong.
Whether in a concert hall, a library, a school gym, or a public gathering, our voices strengthen what matters most — community. We invite you to join us and experience why audiences say, “It’s my choir.” We hope you’ll make it yours, too.
Our History
The Elgin Master Chorale began in 1947 when founder Dean Chipman united community choirs with a bold dream: to perform Brahms’ German Requiem. On May 7, 1948, that dream took flight as 192 singers performed to a full house at First Congregational Church of Elgin.
Since then, EMC has grown into a cornerstone of the region’s performing arts scene.
Incorporated as a nonprofit in 1966 and rebranded in 2014 to reflect our expanding mission, we now serve as the Ensemble-in-Residence at Elgin Community College, performing throughout the Fox Valley and greater Chicago region.
Under the artistic leadership of Maestro Andrew Lewis, EMC honors its heritage while boldly embracing new horizons. From our origins as a coalition of church choirs to our role today as a leader in choral excellence, we remain committed to uplifting every voice through artistry, innovation, and inclusivity.