Who we are
We perform sacred and secular compositions of the 17th – 21st centuries. The Dalton Chorale is made up of about 40 serious amateur singers, men and women of all ages and all walks of life. We warmly welcome anyone wanting to sing challenging music with a supportive group. Performances feature professional soloists and musicians.
Where to find us
Tuesdays 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
at Houghton Hall Arts Community at 22 East 30th St.
Open rehearsals begin September 15, 2026.
Our next concert
Tuesday, December 8, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
We will be performing Vivaldi's Beatus Vir, the Pergolesi/Durante Magnificat, and Handel's Foundling Hospital Anthem.
Come join us!
We enthusiastically accept all singers with at least modest sight singing ability.
Try us out for a rehearsal or two, after which you may sing for the Music Director to discover your voice placement.
The Dalton Chorale, a mixed choir of some fifty voices, was founded in New York in 1991 to give members the opportunity to sing significant sacred and secular music. Pieces are by well-known and less well-known composers, from the 17th century to the present day. Originally drawn from alumni, parents, and faculty from Dalton School, the members of the Chorale are now a diverse ensemble of serious amateurs — many still associated with Dalton school, and many others who did not attend Dalton, and even others who may be new to New York. Members enjoy the communal effort and the commitment required to perform great choral music. The Chorale provides a welcoming and supportive environment, allowing members to grow in ability with excellent musical direction.
Under the direction of Claudia Dumschat, the 45- to 55-member chorale presents two concerts each year: one in December, usually of 17th- or 18th-century music, and the other in May, presenting a program of more modern music. These are either accompanied by a small orchestra or by organ. Although the music may not be familiar to everyone, it is a challenge and pleasure to learn. We welcome newcomers—those who can commit for just one semester, as well as those who would like to do this “forever”.
This program is supported, in part, by public
funds from the New York City Department of Cultural
Affairs in partnership with the City Council.
