Our Mission

Berkeley Community Chorus

The mission of the Berkeley Community Chorus is to provide a choral music organization for the promotion and enjoyment of the musical arts in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia and to offer a performance opportunity for adult singers of all ages and abilities in Berkeley County, West Virginia.

Background

Founded in September 2012, the Berkeley Community Chorus is a mixed ensemble of adult singers serving Berkeley County and the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The motto “A Singing Social Network” represents the purpose of building community in the county and within the membership of the choir. The circular oval shape represents that ongoing process. The colors represent each of the county high schools as a path to unification of our membership from each of those service areas. No sports rivalry here (well, after rehearsal…).

Open to singers 18 years of age and older. This is a face-to-face personal and musical gathering to interact through making music together and sharing our experience with our listeners. Auditions will be held in the fall and spring for new members. The ability to read music is recommended not required. Selected chorus members are available to provide additional help with learning voice parts. Singers will be volunteers in the chorus. Leadership roles will be given to officers elected by the membership who serve as the Executive Committee. Chorus members are encouraged to recruit singers and support arts activities in the region.

Funding and Finances

The chorus accompanist is the only paid position. Other expenses include administrative costs, publicity, rehearsal space, concert venues and programs, music, and more. We enjoy sponsorship from the Berkeley Arts Council and have received two awards in their “Amplify the Arts” grant program. Additional financial support will have to be obtained from community fundraising projects, private donations, possible corporate sponsorships, concert ticket sales, and chorus dues.

BCC Officers

The Berkeley Community Chorus is guided by officers elected by members of the chorus.

Current BCC Executive Committee:

Drew Catrow, President
Tim Gayle, Vice President,
Shelly Swain, Treasurer
Stephanie Lore, Secretary
Judy Darlington, Fundraising Chair
Devon Thompson, Public Relations Chair
Jen Gayle, Membership Chair,