From Biola's beginning years, there has always been the presence of some sort of organized singing group, whether officially or unofficially. The school formed its first Men's and Women's Glee Clubs in 1927, which lasted several decades. In 1951, under the direction of Earl Hulin, the Coronation Choir was established. In 1954, choral music direction was taken over by Paul Wohlgemuth and in 1962 by Edwin Heppner. The Coronation Choir was called the Oratorio Chorus in 1960, and several other choral ensembles were added later, such as a chamber choir lead by William R. Lock in 1963.

1967 was the first time the main vocal ensemble was called the Biola Chorale, and it was at that time under the direction of Loren Wiebe, who directed it for 30 years. In 1983 there was also the Biola University Singers, but that was separate from the Biola Chorale. After Wiebe's retirement, Shawna Cross Stewart became the director of Biola Chorale in 1997. As the Biola Chorale, this ensemble has become over the past few decades the primary vocal ensemble of the Conservatory and an important presence in the department. The Chorale has two of its own concerts during the school year as well as some collaborative concerts with other sections of the department, such as the Christmas concert, special music and holiday chapel performances, Major Works performances with the orchestra, and the annual PRISM Showcase concert. In addition, the Chorale goes on tours around the U.S. and Europe every other year and in areas within driving distance of L.A. in between years to recruit singers from high schools, community colleges, and churches to apply to Biola and audition for Chorale.

The Chorale generally has about 30-50 singers, both music and non-music majors, who all must audition to get in.

Current info: HIGHLY EDITORIAL--taken from Biola Music website.

The Chorale is a forty-five to sixty-voice choir which rehearses three times a week. It invites those with skilled voice and quality musicianship, combined with a heart for worshiping God and glorifying Him through the art of choral singing. In literature, the Chorale is dedicated to traditional choral music defining the ages. Also incorporated are works of contemporary classical composers as well as beloved spirituals and quality gospel pieces. Biola Music Website, http://academics.biola.edu/music/ensembles/chorale/

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