Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, is dedicated to transforming lives through innovative programming, artistic excellence, educational outreach and service to the community.
Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, led by Maestro Joseph Caulkins, produces one-of-a-kind programming, collaborations that inspire, and artistry that stirs the soul. In addition to the 110+ member chorale, the Key Chorale Chamber Singers selected from the full chorale, perform unique, often genre-bending performances.
Our History
Key Chorale was founded in Spring 1985 by Ann Stephenson-Moe, Organist and Choirmaster of the Church of the Redeemer and Don B. Ryno, Minister of Music at St. Boniface Church. For 21 years, Daniel Moe served as Artistic Director of Key Chorale. Referred to as the “Dean of Choral Conductors” by the New Yorker, Dr. Moe previously conducted the internationally renowned Oberlin College Choir. He announced his intended retirement in October 2005, which allowed the Chorale to conduct a nationwide search for a new Artistic Director. Dr. Moe’s last concert was April 30, 2007, with a performance of Verdi’s acclaimed Requiem. His tenure with Key Chorale established a standard of choral excellence continued by current Artistic Director Joseph Caulkins, appointed in 2007.
Collaborating with the Sarasota Orchestra under the baton of Leif Bjaland, the Chorale performed such masterworks as Poulenc’s Gloria, Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy, and Haydn’s The Creation. Key Chorale appeared with the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Leonard Slatkin presenting Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.
The commissioning of new choral music has always been a priority of the Chorale. Notable commissions include Three Days by the Sea by Gwyneth Walker, Invocations – Prayers for the Earth by Dale Warland, The Lake Isle and Arise by Ola Gjeilo, and others. Key Chorale has also released several recordings including ARISE, Choral Music of Ola Gjeilo released in 2017, and INVOCATIONS released in 2010.
Key Chorale has taken its music to Europe on several occasions. In 2001, the Chorale toured Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. In 2009 they presented concerts in France and Italy, including a concert in Asolo, Sarasota’s Sister City, and a memorable Mass at the historic San Marco Basilica in Venice. In 2012, Key Chorale toured Ireland and Scotland, including performing in Saint Giles’ Cathedral.
In 2011 Joseph Caulkins and Pedro Reis created Cirque des Voix®, a dynamic collaboration with The Circus Arts Conservatory which has gone on to be a celebrated annual event. Key Chorale further fostered its collaborative spirit with performances of Cirque des Voix on the national stage at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C. along with sacred performances at the National Cathedral.
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.
Under the baton of Joseph Caulkins, Key Chorale has become known for its award-winning community and educational outreach programming in addition to its one-of-a-kind and adventurous programming.
Our Core Values
Artistic Excellence
We are devoted to excellence in creating and performing music that resonates with our audiences and singers.
Creativity
We employ new and innovative ideas and approaches in all we do.
Collaboration
We can accomplish more together than alone. Key Chorale works as a team within our own organization and with our community partners.
Making a Difference
We believe in contributing to our community through music and service.
Our Vision
A Suncoast community that is engaged and enriched by the
power of our music and outreach.
What Makes Us Unique
While developing a video to tell the Key Chorale story Artistic Director Joseph Caulkins was asked, “What makes the Chorale unique?” His goal was to express, in just a few minutes, the various ways the Chorale impacts our community, the singers, youth and the larger community of choral music.
As Joseph considered Key Chorale’s programming that honors the history of great choral music, presents world premieres, includes guest artists, collaborates with other performing arts organizations and provides opportunities to area high school students, he found the answer in four words: innovation, community, collaboration and creativity.
Watch the Video
