As far as history records, choral music dates back to ancient Greece during the 2nd century BC, when a choir performed in unison during theatrical and religious performances. Since then, choral music has become a part of a world-wide culture, with many experiencing their first taste of singing in an elementary school chorus. But graduation does not have to signal the end of choral singing. There are an estimated 270,000 choirs across the United States and one of them — Canterbury Voices — has called Oklahoma City its home for over 55 years.
Canterbury Voices is Oklahoma’s oldest and largest community choir with roughly 165 singers. Under the direction of Artistic Director Dr. Julie Yu, these vocalists rehearse weekly for their four brilliant concerts a year, as well as occasional performances with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. Dr. Yu is currently completing her second season with Canterbury, bringing new and exciting works to the stage, including Loksi’ Shaali’ by Jarod Tate earlier this season. This groundbreaking opera is the first ever written entirely in a Native American language (Chickasaw), which engaged and challenged both the singers and audience. Yu said, “The performing arts in Oklahoma City are experiencing a remarkable renaissance, with vibrant collaborations, dynamic performances and a growing appreciation for the power of live music. It is an exciting time to be part of the arts community, where creativity and passion continue to inspire and connect us all.”
Still to come this season is Crescendo!, taking place in the Civic Center’s Hall of Mirrors the evening of Thursday, May 15. This gala will feature the Chamber Voices, a small group of Canterbury’s finest vocalists. A live jazz combo will play during cocktail hour, which begins at 6:30 p.m., and at 7:30 p.m., a 45-minute virtuosic concert will begin. “It is an acoustically beautiful space and the Chamber Voices will perform an eclectic mix of music,” said marketing director Kelly Moore. “Guests can expect everything from classical music to Imogen Heap to Paul Simon. There will be cocktails and delicious appetizers catered by Kam’s Kookery. It is a more intimate setting with a fun, party atmosphere.”
Crescendo! is Canterbury’s biggest fundraiser of the year, with the proceeds benefiting its youth education program called Canterbury Youth Voices. This is a weekly choral program for children in grades two through 12 that runs throughout the school year, serving as an enhanced extracurricular activity. The money raised at Crescendo! will go toward the scholarships available for these young singers.
Tickets are now on sale for the 2025-26 season, which is sure to be another stellar year for Canterbury Voices. It begins with Dies Irae: Songs of the Shadows on Oct. 30 with spooky melodies including Carl Orff’s famous O Fortuna and haunting sounds of Dies Irae and Sweeney Todd. Next is the classic holiday favorite Handel’s Messiah on Dec. 7, which Canterbury performs every other year to a sold-out crowd. In the spring, experience the magic of the Great White Way on March 21 with Canterbury Voices on Broadway! The season will close once again with the Crescendo! fundraiser next May.
“The OKC arts community is thriving, and in times of uncertainty, music and the arts serve as a source of hope, unity and resilience, reminding us of our shared humanity,” Yu said. “I am truly excited for the future we are building together. Our next season has something for everyone — classic favorites, sweeping melodies and inspiring choruses.”
