The 2025 Chorus America Conference in Photos

From June 4-7, Chorus America held our 2025 Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. From the excitement of learning new strategies to the warmth of long-awaited reunions, our Conference kicked off with enthusiasm, connection, and a reminder of why we all do what we do. 

We were so happy to reunite with our community. Take a look at some of our favorite moments from this year's Conference (maybe you'll spot yourself!) We’re already counting down the days until next year’s Conference in Minneapolis!

Photos by ProPhotoSTL

A Star-Studded Start

Our first official day of Conference began with inspiration and deep reflection on the power of music on our minds. We started with opening remarks from president and CEO Christopher Eanes on how the choral field can meet this moment. As he put it, “Here’s what we’re going to do together: we’re going to use singing as the antidote to division. We’re going to use singing to ground people in their communities, to build empathy, and to get people to literally inhabit the same physical space.” 

This led into a powerful Opening Plenary, featuring world-renowned soprano and activist Renée Fleming in conversation with Anthony Trecek-King on her book Music and Mind. Fleming shared about her work on the connection between the arts and health, answered questions from the audience, and even demonstrated her straw phonation technique. 

Deep Dives and Big Ideas

This year, we brought back In-Depth Sessions! Conference attendees dove into powerful and thought-provoking in-depth sessions on Wednesday, exploring topics that will shape the future of the choral field. These extended sessions provided time to ask big questions, dig into core challenges, and create major “aha!” moments.

Voices of the Field

Throughout the week, Breakout Sessions spotlighted innovation and creativity from our unique choral field. Attendees engaged deeply with topics that resonated with them and their own choral organizations.

Networking in Action

From spontaneous hallway chats to our Speed Networking events, the 2025 Conference was full of moments that brought our community closer together. Whether it was trading ideas over morning coffee in the exhibit hall, making new friends at happy hour, or diving into discussions at Peer Forums and Round Tables, the week buzzed with meaningful exchange.

Spotlight on Sound

Our Conference concerts were nothing short of spectacular this year! Featuring diverse ensembles from the St. Louis community and powerful repertoire, these performances reminded us of the impact and artistry that choral music brings to the world.

The Opening Night Concert featured The Bach Society of Saint Louis, St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus, St. Louis Symphony Chorus, and the St. Louis Women's Chorale. 

The Friday Concert featured Continuum Vocal Ensemble, The Sheldon All-Star Chorus, and The St. Louis Children's Choirs.

One of the most powerful moments of the 2025 Conference came during the Gospel Sing, a  celebration of St. Louis’s deep-rooted gospel music legacy. Hosted by beloved St. Louis natives Rollo Dilworth and Maria A. Ellis, this event welcomed both Conference attendees and members of the local community to raise their voices together in song.

The Gospel Sing also served as a benefit for those affected by the recent St. Louis tornado.

Honoring Award Winners and Annual Meeting

Each year, we recognize individuals and organizations who have made a lasting impact in our field. The 2025 Awards Celebration and Annual Meeting highlighted dedication and leadership in the choral community. During the Annual Meeting, the Chorus America's new Board Chair Mark Lawson officially accepted the baton from previous Chair Anton Armstrong.

A Night at the Museum

Our Friday night Gala at the City Museum brought music, whimsy, and community together under one roof. It was a night to solve mysteries and connect in one of St. Louis’s most unforgettable venues.

We hope you had as much fun as we did this year, and we can't wait to see you next year at the 2026 Chorus America Conference in Minneapolis (June 3-6!)

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