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Chorus America has been named to the American Classical Music Hall of Fame, one of six inductees selected for 2011. Others inducted this year are composer John Corigliano, conductor Sir George Solti, cellist Gregor Piatigorsky, educator Charles Wadsworth, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
"We are so grateful to the American Classical Music Hall of Fame for recognizing us in this very special way," said Ann Meier Baker, president & CEO of Chorus America. "In a world that can be so divided, choral music has the ability to bring people together in remarkable ways. And so it is a privilege for Chorus America to support choirs that fill our lives with so much beautiful music, and that make such a difference in our communities and in our world."
The American Classical Music Hall of Fame, established in 1996, is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the many facets of American classical music. The Hall of Fame recognizes "a diverse collection of individuals and institutions that have significantly influenced classical music, our history...and the world. Their music provides a soundtrack for a nation. Their dedication and achievement provide education and inspiration for future generations."
Chorus America was inducted on July 12, 2012, at the Gospel & Spiritual Celebration Concert at the World Choir Games in Cincinnati.
"It was a proud moment to watch as Chorus America took center stage at one of the largest choir gatherings in the world and the first appearance of the World Choir Games in the U.S.," said Earl Rivers, artistic director for the Cincinnati Organizing Committee of the 7th World Choir Games and director of choral studies at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. "Chorus America has grown into a world-class organization that knows the value of innovation and leads by example in its effective service to its growing membership."
Prior to the concert, leaders from the Hall of Fame and Chorus America, along with friends and supports, gathered at Washington Park near Music Hall to see the Hall of Fame’s newly created Walk of Fame. The Walk of Fame includes Chorus America’s commemorative paving stone, as well as state-of-the-art interactive features highlighting the accomplishments of all of the Hall of Fame inductees.
