THE SYMPHONY CHORUS
The Southwest Florida Symphony Chorus is a fully auditioned, 100+ voice group
representing Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. Rich and resonant, the Chorus, under
the direction of Joseph Caulkins, has earned a reputation for energetic performances
and innovative programming.
These talented and dedicated volunteers present over 15 performances each season,
ranging from classical choral/orchestral works to pops selections and choral music.
They present a major choral work each season for the Classical Series, perform at
the annual Holiday Pops concert, and present their own Stained Glass Concert
Series. In addition, they are also involved in the community, performing for the
annual Easter Sunrise Service, Community Prayer Breakfast, and other events.
Since their inception in 1962, the Symphony Chorus has performed over 60 major
choral works for orchestra and chorus, and toured five European countries.
CHAMBER CHORUS
The Chamber Chorus is a highly select ensemble from within the Symphony Chorus,
which prepares especially challenging and intricate choral music for the Symphony
Chamber, Stained Glass and Classical Series.
CHORUS AUDITIONS
The Symphony Chorus is an auditioned chorus and open to members 15 and older.
Rehearsals are Monday evenings, September through May. Auditions take place in
August and September. Auditions are by appointment only. For additional
information or to schedule an audition, call the Symphony office at 418-0996
or e-mail us at info@swflso.org.
ASSOCIATE CONDUCTOR & DIRECTOR OF CHORUSES
Boundless energy, passionate conducting, and an engaging personality describe
Joseph Caulkins. Celebrating his seventh season, Caulkins' inspiring leadership
has propelled the choruses to a new level.
CHARLES HEARD
ACCOMPANIST AND ASSISTANT CHORAL DIRECTOR
Highly talented and multi faceted, Charles Heard has served as the piano
accompanist or the past five seasons. Having worked forty years as a teacher
and administrator in Michigan, Heard’s evenings and weekends were filled with
a vast variety of musical pursuits.
Heard trained the Rackham Symphony Choir (Detroit Symphony) and was the
Director of the Dearborn Choral Arts Society and the Seaway Chorale and
Orchestra. As a pianist and vocal coach, Heard worked many summers at the
National Music Camp, Interlochen, Michigan. He also was involved with the
Michigan Opera Theater programwhere he worked with Jessye Norman and Ashley
Putnam. He served as the Director of Music and Organist at St. Paul American
Lutheran Church in Dearborn, Michigan for 23 years.
