The Connecticut Choral Society
A Radiant Voice for Art and Humanity
From its modest beginnings in 1980—when fewer than thirty singers gathered for a humble rehearsal—the Connecticut Choral Society (CCS) has grown into a shining jewel of the regional arts scene: an ensemble of professional and auditioned singers recognized as the premiere symphonic chorus of Western Connecticut.
Today, CCS is a vibrant musical collective comprising over 45 skilled vocalists from more than 20 towns. Each member brings not only musical precision but a shared dedication to a greater purpose—using the transformative power of choral music to uplift, connect, and inspire. Under the direction of visionary artistic leadership, the ensemble has built a legacy of performances marked by emotional depth, technical excellence, and cultural relevance.
A Mission Rooted in Beauty and Service
At its core, CCS exists to serve. We are dedicated:
- To bringing choral music of the highest artistic quality to audiences both near and far
- To cultivating musical excellence within our ensemble and our broader community
- And to creating a platform where art meets purpose, enriching lives through performance, outreach, and education
We believe choral music is not only an artistic endeavor—it is a form of communion, a mirror to the soul, and a call to shared humanity.
A Distinguished Artistic Journey
From the concert halls of Connecticut to the great cultural capitals of the world, CCS has performed with distinction across an extraordinary range of venues and collaborations. Our voice has resounded in Carnegie Hall alongside the New York Pops Orchestra, at Lincoln Center, and in the hallowed acoustics of Yale University’s Woolsey Hall.
Internationally, CCS has carried its message of harmony across the globe—touring England, Canada, continental Europe, Australia, and China, singing in both iconic concert spaces and sacred sites. Our performances are known not only for their beauty and musical integrity, but for their emotional power and the sense of unity they bring to diverse audiences.
Along the way, we’ve earned the recognition of our peers and community. In 2014, WTIC (CBS Connecticut) named CCS one of the top five choral groups in the state—a testament to our artistic caliber and civic impact.
Our Identity: Western Connecticut’s Premiere Symphonic Chorus
CCS stands apart as the region’s foremost symphonic choral ensemble, where professionalism, artistry, and heart intersect. Our repertoire spans centuries and continents—from Baroque masterpieces and Romantic oratorios to contemporary works that respond to the urgent themes of our time.
We partner with ORCHESTRANEXUS, soloists, composers, and conductors to create performances that are at once historically grounded and freshly resonant. The singers of CCS bring exceptional musicianship and deep personal commitment to their craft. Rehearsals are laboratories of creativity and collaboration; performances are moments of spiritual and emotional revelation. Each concert is more than an event—it is an offering to the community.
Music as Ministry: Our Outreach and Humanitarian Work
We believe that music must not only dazzle but also serve. Outreach is a cornerstone of our mission, and CCS has a long and proud history of using its voice to advocate for compassion, healing, and justice.
Through specially dedicated concerts, we have raised vital funds and awareness for nonprofit organizations such as:
- Toys for Tots
- Ronald McDonald House
- Lions Club International
- Habitat for Humanity
- The American Red Cross
- Greater Waterbury Interfaith Ministries
- The Samaritan Center of Danbury
- New Milford’s Social Services Benevolent Fund
- Family and Children’s Aid Center (Danbury)
- Covenant House
In moments of national or local crisis, we have responded with immediacy and grace. In the aftermath of the Sandy Hook tragedy, CCS offered a free concert of solace and reflection to the town of Newtown—a musical act of collective mourning and quiet resilience.
For us, outreach is not an adjunct to performance—it is part of the performance. It is the echo of our song in the lives of those we serve.
Looking Ahead: A Vision of Radiance
As we embark on our next chapter, the Connecticut Choral Society continues to expand its reach, elevate its artistry, and embrace new audiences. We are developing future-facing programming that honors tradition while welcoming innovation—from multi-media collaborations and interdisciplinary performances to music that speaks to global unity, peace, and the human spirit.
We welcome new singers, supporters, and partners to join our journey. Whether you sit in the audience, sing in the chorus, or stand beside us as a sponsor or collaborator, you are part of a shared story—one in which music becomes a bridge, a beacon, and a blessing.
Together, we lift our voices. Together, we rise.