The Nielsen Chorale
2019-2020 marked the inaugural season of The Nielsen Chorale, resident chorus of the Rockford Symphony Orchestra. The Chorale’s name honors Ralph Nielsen (1916-1995), the founding father of choral music in Rockford and one of the city’s most important musicians of the 20th century. Business owner, singer and conductor, Ralph passionately promoted music in our community, especially choral music. He also was the patriarch of a remarkably distinguished musical family that spans three generations (so far). The Nielsen Chorale is committed to continuing the high standards of choral music performance that he started decades ago.
The Chorale is incorporated as an independent 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. Its mission is “to enrich and inspire our community through choral music”. Artistic leadership will be provided by Music Director Martha Bein, who led the Mendelssohn Chorale from 1994-2019.