Chorale Garners Grants

During February, the , represented by amateur and professional singers from 44 towns and joyfully singing since 1977, received three competitive grants from local, state and regional sources. 

The awards are $2,500 from the New England Foundation from the Arts, $7,500 from the Middletown Commission on the Arts and $4,181 in support from the State of Connecticut, Department of Economic and Community Development’s Connecticut Office of the Arts. 

The GMC will gratefully use the latter two grants, in addition to donations from patrons, to fund general operational support for the organization.  These funds support all the Chorale’s operations and allow the GMC to serve the community through celebratory concerts. On New Year’s Eve the singing ensemble was thrilled to be part of Middletown’s first celebration.

recently said: "The Greater Middletown Chorale adds so much richness to the fabric of our community. It says a lot about both the people of the City of Middletown and the Chorale that we have such a vibrant and extraordinary organization here at home for our enjoyment and enrichment." 

The NEFA grant is specifically designated for a commissioned piece that the GMC will premiere in April of 2013. Funded in part by a grant from the MetLife Creative Connections program of Meet the Composer, Inc. and the New England Foundation for the Arts, with additional support from the six New England state arts agencies and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Entitled Letter From Italy, 1944: War’s End, the theatrical choral masterwork is being composed by Wesleyan music faculty member, Sarah Meneely-Kyder with lyrics by her sister, Nancy Meneely.  The epic work is based on the story of their father, Dr. John Meneely who served in the 10th Mountain Division in Southern Italy in World War II.

The GMC has steadily expanded its geographical reach, repertoire and impact over the years. Joseph D’Eugenio, artistic director since 1988, has much to do with the palpable and lively enthusiasm and creative energy that permeate rehearsals and performances alike. In addition to performing standard choral repertoire, like the upcoming Chichester Psalms by Bernstein and Nänie by Brahms in concert on May 12, the GMC maintains an active interest in attracting and premiering commissioned pieces.

These awards convey that the Greater Middletown Chorale corps of 75 auditioned singers provides a high level of quality in its music, programs, community service and administrative ability. The Chorale’s 35th year embodies the group’s commitment to creative programming, outstanding performances and efforts to enhance participation in the arts.