Next June, to celebrate the conclusion of their 25th Season, Windsong Southland Chorale will tour in Italy, concertizing in Rome and singing in the Sistine Chapel, Florence, and Venice. Singers, as well as non-singers, are invited to join the tour.

Born and raised on the East Coast, Founder/Director Dr. Janet Harms awarded a scholarship to the renowned Julliard School of Music at the age of thirteen.

She earned a Master’s degree from the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago, and a Doctorate from New York’s Columbia University. She is an internationallyacclaimed organist and teacher.

In summer 1995, after directing church and community choirs for many years, Dr. Harms was approached by three friends, who suggested that she start her own chorale.

Windsong Southland Chorale was born. The Chorale grew from 30 singers to more than double that number.

At one time, they nicknamed themselves “The Zip Code Chorale” because singers came from such a widespread geographical area of Southern California, from the desert, to the mountains, to the ocean, from Lake Arrowhead to Pacific Palisades.

As the years past, Windsong’s reputation grew, and the Chorale was privileged to premiere some major works, including Rene Clausen’s “Memorial,” written in honor of the 9-11 victims.

Windsong introduced that stirring piece to California, to Greece, and to Australia. Performing in Carnegie Hall to New Yorkers was one of the most moving concerts in the Chorale’s history, for those on-stage as well as audience members.

Windsong also gave the first performance in Carnegie Hall of “Lux Aeterna” by Morten Lauridsen. Originally commissioned for the L.A. Master Chorale, this piece has become part of the international choral repertoire.

Windsong is a multigenerational community choir, ranging in age from college students to seniors, from 18-81. Their gifted accompanist is Nightingale Chen.

The Chorale is known for its friendliness and new singers are always welcome. The Chorale rehearses 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays at La Verne Heights Presbyterian Church. After a summer hiatus, rehearsals will begin Monday, Sept. 9.

If you have an interest in singing or touring with Windsong, please call (909) 983-9879 to set up an audition, or for further information.