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Who We Are

Joseph Caulkins Joe conducting group of singers

Our History

In 2019, Maestro Caulkins received the “Arts Leadership Award for Artistic Achievement” from the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County for his many seasons as Artistic Director of Key Chorale. Through dynamic collaborations with organizations like Sarasota Orchestra, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, The Sarasota Ballet, The Venice Symphony, and The Circus Arts Conservatory, Key Chorale is able to create unforgettable programs that continue to push the boundaries of choral music.

Key Chorale was the winner of the 2020 Chorus America “Award for Education and Community Engagement” given in recognition of their extensive education programs, reaching more than 400 students each year, and its commitment to community outreach. The Off-Key Chorale, for those living with Parkinson’s started in 2012, and the Where Are My Keys? Chorale, for those living with Alzheimer’s and memory loss, celebrates the joy and therapeutic aspects of singing.

In 2021 choirs all across the world were silenced by the pandemic, but Key Chorale found ways to continue to make music producing six online concerts and events, nine episodes of Morning Coffee & Maestros and created the Come Together Choir, Online Choral Rehearsals, as a way for singers throughout the country, and beyond, to come together and enjoy singing safely while social distancing. In June, Key Chorale premiered “Masked” in Troubled Times, a virtual choir and masterwork singalong of Haydn’s Mass in Troubled Times.

Our Core Values

Our Core Values

Integrity

Adhere to the highest standards of ethics, stewardship and public trust, internally and externally.

Artistic Excellence

Implement unique, innovative and cost-effective programming that exemplifies the highest levels of musical expression and achievement. Welcome collaboration and experimentation within and outside our organization.

Personal Responsibility

Become part of the solution by assuming personal responsibility for organizational excellence and effectiveness. Take initiative to achieve results and accept accountability.

Fiscal Discipline

Exercise vigilant oversight of resources and financial management.

Respect

Demonstrate a high regard for others, practice civility and honor the healthy exchange of ideas and opinions.

Communication

Communicate in a transparent, thorough, honest and productive manner throughout our organization and with our patrons, community partners and public.

Teamwork

Promote high performance and efficient operations through cooperative efforts, collective action and mutual trust. Celebrate the contributions made by all levels and partners.

Diversity

Demonstrate inclusiveness and impartiality throughout our organization in everything we do – leadership, management, programming, membership recruitment and community interaction.

Community

Embrace and strengthen our bonds throughout the broad character of our community. Enrich our cultural environment by making extraordinary choral music accessible and open to all through varied performances, educational and geographical outreach.

Appreciation

Infuse a culture of gratitude throughout our organization and to all who might contribute to our success. Recognize the efforts of volunteers, staff, supporters and sustainers.