Our Story
The Heritage Chorale celebrates its 73rd season in 2009-2010. Originally named the Framingham Choral Society, the Chorale was founded in the fall of 1937 by a small group of Framingham residents on a budget of $62! Except for a brief time during World War II, the Chorale has rehearsed and performed in Framingham and nearby communities ever since. The size of the Chorale has fluctuated from a group of 40 to our present membership of about 85. Much has changed in our 73-year history but not our resolve to enrich ourselves and the community with song.
During its long history, the Chorale has performed a wide range of both classical and contemporary choral works. In its earliest seasons, the chorus performed The Messiah each year to sell-out audiences. Most recently, the Chorale has performed works of contemporary composers Daniel Pinkham, Morten Lauridsen, and Randall Thompson, as well as Mozart, Haydn and Brahms.
In February, 1988, the Chorale added a Pops-style concert to its season. We have delighted in bringing lighter musical fare to our audience, generally in the beginning of February. Pops concerts have been designed around themes and have included popular pieces from opera, Disney melodies, and Broadway hits.
Our Music Directors
The Chorale’s history has been one of outstanding directors. Much of the Heritage Chorale’s recent success has come thanks to the high standards set by current Music Director John Finney, who has led the Chorale since 1987.
| Dr. Edward Gilday, founder | 1938 – 1957; 1958 – 1964 |
| Allen Lannom | 1957 – 1958; 1964 – 1966 |
| John Oliver | 1966 – 1973 |
| Robert Gronquist | 1973 – 1974 |
| Christopher Carlson | 1974 – 1983; 1984 – 1985 |
| Philip Moss | 1985 – 1987 |
| John Finney | 1983 – 1984; 1987 – present |
Our Collaborations
In some seasons, the Chorale has collaborated with area symphonic groups to perform major works. Recent performances include Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 and Brahms’ A German Requiem with the New Philharmonia Orchestra and Beethoven’s 9th Symphony with the Wellesley Symphony Orchestra.
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