The Advent Chorale of Western New York, Inc. began in 1979, out of the dreams of the East Aurora Ministerium, to present an annual performance of Handel's greatest masterwork, Messiah, as a gift to the community.

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        Membership of the chorale is a melting pot of talented singers from the Western New York region who come from all walks of life and represent a variety of occupations, denominations, and ages; most have joined after hearing one of our performances.

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        Under the tutelage and leadership of Mr. Gregory White, Music Director and Conductor, the chorale has emerged as a prominent choral ensemble on Western New York's music scene.

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CHORALE TIMELINE

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  1979 - Community Advent Chorale started by East Aurora Ministerium.

  1980 - Chorale conducted by Mr. Carl Druba and performed at the East Aurora High School.

  1982 - Mr. William Graf became the chorales conductor for 16 years.

  1983 - Performance moved to Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, East Aurora.

  1998 - Conducted by Ms. Cheryl Delventhal for two years.

  2000 - Mr. Tim Kennedy, conductor for two years.

  2002 - Music Director and conductor, Mr. Gregory White. 22 years and counting!

  2009 - Second concert added at Orchard Park Presbyterian Church.

  2016 - Name changed to Advent Chorale of Western New York, Inc. and achieved 501c3 status.

  2019 - 40th anniversary performance of Handel's Messiah.

  2020-2022 - No concerts due to COVID-19 epidemic.

  2023 - 41st performance, first post-COVID-19 concert.

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        We are a 501c3 organization. Our concert performances are made possible through the enthusiastic support of our audiences, and the generosity of our community patrons, supporters, chorale members and benefactors.  We are grateful for their ongoing support each season, support that makes this gift to the community possible. The Chorale is governed by a board of Directors that provides ongoing vision and leadership.

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Advent Chorale of Western New York Steering Committee:

        Dick Hillegas, John Lyons, Natalie Lyons, Sandy McQuillan, Chris Miller, Dave Schifferle, and             Pati Aine Guzinski