Our History
Founded in 1979, the Athens Chamber Singers are an audition ensemble in Athens, Georgia. They present a wide range of music, both accompanied and a cappella.
Our History
The Athens Chamber Singers were founded in 1979 as an auditioned ensemble under the direction of John Hebblethwaite. Brenda Poss assumed leadership in 1985, and Kevin Kelly has been director since 1994. From the beginning, the Athens Chamber Singers have presented a wide range of music, from Renaissance madrigals to Broadway tunes. Dr. Kelly has expanded their repertoire to include works from an ethnic or world culture perspective. The Athens Chamber Singers are known for their a cappella singing, but they are often joined by instrumentalists when appropriate.
The Athens Chamber Singers present Yuletide Musical Dinners in December and a themed concert each spring.
Yuletide Dinners
These popular events are now held at Trumps’ Catering on S. Milledge, where the Athens Chamber Singers present music during the courses of an elegant dinner, followed by a short concert. The Trumps chef prepares a festive full-course dinner, often tying the menu to the musical offerings. A wide variety of the Yuletide music reflects the international and diverse character of the holiday: music from Eastern Europe and the British Isles, for example, as well as early American, Klezmer, and jazz offerings.
Highlights
Two concerts at the Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival in Charleston, South Carolina
Performing with the Dave Brubeck jazz ensemble
Performing with the Athens Symphony Orchestra
Performing a viol consort from the Atlanta Early Music Alliance