Artwork courtesy of Steffi Ricketts
Aurora is a non-auditioned soprano and alto (treble) ensemble of the Chester River Chorale, designed to offer a more flexible and accessible choral experience. With shorter rehearsals, reduced performance demands, and options for seated rehearsal and performance, Aurora creates a supportive small-ensemble environment for singers at a wide range of life stages including students, busy parents, and those with mobility or scheduling constraints.
Artistically, the ensemble explores the rich and growing repertoire for treble voices, featuring music that is vibrant, expressive, and reflective of contemporary life. Aurora expands the Chorale’s ability to serve both singers and audiences by increasing performance opportunities, reaching new venues, and creating space for more voices to participate in meaningful music-making.
Named for the first light of dawn, Aurora reflects the clarity, brilliance, and quiet power of treble voices rising together. Like morning light over the Chester River, the ensemble embodies a sense of emergence and is fresh, luminous, and full of possibility.
Rehearsal Information
Aurora rehearses on Monday nights during the fall semester (September to December) and the spring semester (January to April). Rehearsals are held at the Presbyterian Church of Chestertown, 905 Gateway Drive in Chestertown, from 5:15-6:15 p.m. prior to the rehearsals of the full Chester River Chorale. No audition is required. Music and practice resources are provided.
Under the direction of Artistic Director Alexis Ward and Assistant Director & Pianist Stephanie LaMotte, Aurora collaborates with the Chester Chamber Singers to enrich concert programming and provide expanded performance opportunities.