Continued Choral Excellence

The Knoxville Choral Society was founded in 1937 by a small group of local musicians and civic leaders seeking to bring advanced choral repertoire and community singing to East Tennessee; over the decades the ensemble grew from a volunteer neighborhood chorus into a respected regional institution, commissioning new works, collaborating with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, and presenting large-scale oratorios and seasonal concerts that have become community traditions.

Under successive artistic directors the Society expanded its educational outreach and youth programs, survived wartime and economic challenges, and adapted to changing musical tastes while maintaining a commitment to high-quality performance and civic engagement.

Landmark seasons included ambitious performances of works by Bach, Handel, and contemporary composers, residencies with guest soloists and conductors, and the establishment of scholarship funds to support emerging singers.

Today the Knoxville Choral Society continues to balance historic masterworks with new commissions, drawing singers and audiences from across the region and preserving choral singing as a vibrant part of Knoxville’s cultural life.

Who We Are

We are a group of dedicated adult singers who come together to create something greater than ourselves. Through concerts big and small, from timeless masterworks to bold new compositions, we strive to create moving musical experiences that inspire both our audiences and our members.

Throughout the years, we’ve built strong connections with our community. We perform regularly with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, present our own concert season, and collaborate with local schools, churches, and arts organizations. KCS is proud to be a musical home for people from all walks of life who share a love of singing.

The Knoxville Choral Society is made up of more than 100 volunteer singers. We are teachers, students, retirees, professionals, and neighbors who simply love to sing. Every member auditions each year and commits their time, talent, and heart to making music together.

The group is led by Artistic Director and Conductor Dr. John R. Orr, whose creativity and leadership continue to shape our musical journey.

Looking Ahead

We’re grateful for the decades of music, friendship, and community that have brought us to this point. And we’re excited for what’s next—new music, new partnerships, and new ways to share the magic of choral singing with East Tennessee and beyond.