The Savannah Philharmonic Chorus is an auditioned chorus of 90 volunteer singers led by Chorus Master Paul Thornock. The chorus performs with the Savannah Philharmonic presenting major choral-orchestral works as well as popular music at events like Phil the Park. 

The chorus’ repertoire of major works includes Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius, Handel’s Messiah, Haydn’s Creation, Mozart’s Mass in C minor and Requiem, Orff’s Carmina Burana, Poulenc’s Gloria, and Verdi’s Requiem. They also perform smaller works by composers such as Copland (Old American Songs), Jessica French, Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel, Stephanie Martin, and Sibelius. In the 2024-25 Season the chorus is performing Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, several of Sibelius’ orchestrated songs including the beloved Finlandia, and a concert of spirituals and gospel music with guest conductor Jason Max Ferdinand.

Being a member of the Savannah Philharmonic Chorus reflects a sincere desire to participate in the creation of great music, and implies a commitment to to sing a full complement of concerts that is dictated by the season’s schedule. Chorus members generally have previous experience singing or playing a musical instrument and come to us from a wide variety of professions and neighborhoods of Savannah. The chorus rehearses Tuesday evenings in Midtown Savannah, August through May. Chorus members receive perks such as private voice lessons, coaching in singing foreign languages, chorus parties, and first dibs on concert tickets. 

In addition to our auditioned chorus, the Savannah Philharmonic hosts a Chorus Camp in the Summer open to singers throughout the city and region. In 2024 over 100 singers came together to study excellent repertoire, receive musical & vocal instruction, and meet similarly-minded individuals. We look forward to hosting again on June 16-18, 2025, with registration opening in March 2025.

Auditions for Tenors & Basses are being held by appointment throughout November and December. To learn about what an audition entails and find a time to audition, please contact Sharon Mays, Artistic Manager. Auditions for all voice parts will be held in May & June of 2025.