What is the Stockton Chorale?
The Stockton Chorale is a not-for-profit community organization located in Stockton, CA whose goals include bringing a wide variety of good choral music to the Stockton Community.
Arthur J. Holton, II (1981)
Initially started by Arthur J. Holton II as a double quartet in 1951, the Chorale now numbers 110 to 120 auditioned voices from the Central Valley and foothills. Although originally associated with University of the Pacific and San Joaquin Delta College, since 1997 the Chorale has been an independent, nonprofit organization. More about the Chorale's history...
Now in its 57th year, the Chorale offers adult singers an opportunity to perform with a large organization. The Chorale-sponsored Stockton Youth Chorale, led by Joan Calonico, draws children age 10-14 from throughout San Joaquin County. Curtis Mannah conducts the Master Chorale, 24-30 voices, singing more complex music than the large Chorale and providing special ensemble effects for concerts and separate performances. Prelude Ensemble, 20-30 singers directed by Minnie Eichele, is available to perform for community groups who wish lighter offerings, as carolers, community outreach, or for special occasions. Each group rehearses separately.
Singers come from all ages and many occupations: some working, some retired. Some join to sing for a semester or the whole September-May season. Many current singers have sung with the Chorale for decades. All form a dedicated group who express a profound love of choral music.
The Chorale offers the performance of great masterworks with orchestra and the finest professional and regional soloists. We strive to bring superlative contemporary American choral works, and we are committed to commissioning new choral works.
The Stockton Chorale, 2005