The Hilton Head Choral Society will hold TWO concerts in May. The HHCS will celebrate its 45th season and the 20th year with Artistic Director Tim Reynolds at “For We Wish You Music” – now slated for 7 p.m. on Friday, May 13.

The Choral Society will also present its annual patriotic commemorative concert, “America Sings!” on Sunday, May 29 at 7 p.m.

Both concerts will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway on Hilton Head Island.

 

“FOR WE WISH YOU MUSIC” CONCERT (May 13)

The “For We Wish You Music” concert was originally planned for April 1st but had to be rescheduled due to Covid. The HHCS is determined and ready to celebrate the history of the Hilton Head Choral Society with this special performance. The concert will also showcase the last twenty years with Artistic Director, Tim Reynolds. It is the maestro’s final season with the HHCS and we look forward to reminiscing and celebrating our time together.

“Forty five years of making music together is a big deal,” says HHCS President, Judy Tiano “And celebrating a true musical icon and friend after 20 years together will be something truly special.”

The Hilton Head Choral Society was founded in 1975 to perform the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah.” Their current repertoire includes classical and contemporary works, pops, and seasonal favorites, performed with a professional orchestra and soloists. During Reynolds’ tenure the group has taken two European concert tours; hosted a choral festival with choirs from throughout the USA; commissioned new works by composers Randall Stroope, Georgia Stitt, and Craig Hella Johnson; and expanded programming to include a Chamber Singers ensemble and the HHCS Youth Choir. Repertoire for this concert will reflect those milestones and includes music of Gershwin, Sondheim, Handel and much more. These festive selections, performed by the full chorus and orchestra, will make for a celebratory night to remember.

“These twenty years as Artistic Director of the Choral Society have created some of the fondest memories of my life,” shares Reynolds. “Making music with singers who share a passion for choral music has truly been an honor.”

 

PATRIOTIC CELEBRATION – “AMERICA SINGS!” (May 29)

A true celebration of the American spirit with the chorus, the Atlanta Symphony Brass Quintet, and a special guest speaker in an all-American musical program. The evening will include a tribute to the men and women of our Armed Forces, current and past. With a special guest speaker, HHCS member, LtCol Kathryn Boudreau who is a retired Air Force Intelligence Officer and Attaché. During the course of her career, she served at the U.S. Embassies in Moscow, Paris, and Bujumbura, Burundi. It’s truly an event for the patriotic spirit in us all. Definitely one that you don’t want to miss!

“The Choral Society’s annual patriotic May concert is a long-standing tradition in our community for both locals and visitors alike,” explains Reynolds. “A time to honor those who have fought for this great country. This one will definitely be a bittersweet event as it will be the last time I direct this fine group of musicians.”

For the health and safety of all, patrons, volunteers, and performers will be required to provide proof of vaccination. Patrons are encouraged to submit vaccination proof in advance to tickets@hiltonheadchoralsociety.org or by mail to HHCS, PO Box 22235, Hilton Head Island, SC 29925. Tickets are available for BOTH concerts. The cost of a ticket is $15 – $40 and may be purchased online or at the door, if available. To purchase tickets or for more information, call 843-341-3818, visit www.hiltonheadchoralsociety.org, or email tickets@hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.