Knoxville TN, September 9, 2025
News Summary
The Knoxville Choral Society is poised to celebrate its 75th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in East Tennessee’s arts scene. This season will feature a variety of performances, including collaborations with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and the world premiere of a newly commissioned work. With a diverse repertoire that includes classical masterworks and holiday favorites, KCS continues its legacy of enriching the local cultural landscape. The anniversary season kicks off with a highly anticipated performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 at the Tennessee Theatre.
Knoxville, TN – The Knoxville Choral Society (KCS) is set to celebrate its remarkable 75th anniversary during the 2025-26 season, marking a significant milestone in the East Tennessee arts community. Founded in 1951, KCS is recognized as the region’s oldest and largest civic chorus, which has contributed greatly to the local cultural landscape.
The anniversary season will showcase an array of performances, featuring classic masterworks alongside beloved holiday standards. A noteworthy highlight will be the collaboration with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra (KSO) for several concerts throughout the year, underscoring the long-standing partnership between the two organizations.
Among the exciting events, KCS will unveil a newly commissioned work by KCS Assistant Director and Accompanist Andrew Duncan, which is scheduled for its world premiere during the spring concert. This emphasizes KCS’s commitment to innovation and the support of new composers.
The season kicks off with an opening performance on September 18-19, 2025, at the Tennessee Theatre, featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 and its famed “Ode to Joy.” This concert is a symbolic collaboration with KSO, showcasing the unity and shared vision of both musical ensembles.
KCS serves as the masterworks chorus for KSO performances, enriching the orchestral experience with its vocal contributions. The fall concert, set to take place at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, will feature a mix of sacred music that ranges from classical to gospel and jazz styles, further appealing to diverse musical tastes.
In addition to the fall concert, KCS will host a special winter Young Artists concert, which will highlight talented guest scholarship performers and a choir from South-Doyle High School. This event not only showcases young talent but also emphasizes KCS’s dedication to fostering the next generation of musicians.
The culmination of the anniversary season will be the spring 75th Anniversary Concert, which will feature the eagerly anticipated world premiere of Andrew Duncan’s commissioned work, focusing on the rich songs and narratives of Knoxville itself.
KCS comprises approximately 130 singers, all of whom undergo a rigorous audition process to evaluate their vocal skills and musical abilities. Weekly rehearsals concentrate on ensemble blending, vocal techniques, and music interpretation, allowing members to refine their craft and strengthen their collective performance capability.
As the season progresses, KCS plans to include traditional pieces in its schedule, such as Handel’s Messiah and the popular Clayton Holiday Concerts in collaboration with the KSO, ensuring that audiences can enjoy timeless choral masterworks.
Details regarding upcoming concerts and ticket information can be accessed through the official website of the Knoxville Choral Society, inviting the community to partake in this celebratory season filled with music and artistic expression.
FAQ
When does the 75th anniversary season of the Knoxville Choral Society begin?
The 75th anniversary season begins on September 18-19, 2025, with a performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 at the Tennessee Theatre.
What notable performances are scheduled for the anniversary season?
The season will feature a blend of classic masterworks, holiday standards, a Young Artists concert, and the world premiere of a newly commissioned work by Andrew Duncan.
Where can I find ticket information for the concerts?
Ticket information can be found on the official website of the Knoxville Choral Society.
Key Features of the 75th Anniversary Season
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | Founded in 1951, KCS is the oldest and largest civic chorus in East Tennessee. |
| Opening Performance | September 18-19, 2025, featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. |
| Collaboration | Multiple performances in collaboration with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. |
| New Composition | World premiere of a commissioned work by Andrew Duncan focusing on songs and stories of Knoxville. |
| Repertoire | A mix of classical, gospel, jazz, and holiday music throughout the season. |
| Singer Auditions | Approximately 130 members, selected through auditions assessing vocal quality and music skills. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Tennessee Announces 2025-26 Theatre and Music Season
Additional Resources
- Arts Knoxville: KSO Changes Our Mind About Orff’s Carmina Burana
- Knox News: Obituary
- Arts Knoxville: A Powerful Mozart Requiem
- Dignity Memorial: James Moulton Obituary
- Knox TN Today: Local News Update
- Wikipedia: Knoxville
- Google Search: Knoxville Choral Society
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Knoxville
- Google News: Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
- Google Scholar: Knoxville Music Events
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
