QueensOratorio.org
Title
Oratorio Society of Queens - Home
Description
About Us
The Oratorio Society of Queens is the oldest performing arts institution in the borough. Its inception in the Spring of 1927 preceded completion of the subway (the #7 line) in 1931 and the Triboro Bridge in 1940. Through the "Great Depression" and WWII, the chorus continued to rehearse and perform, contributing to "life as usual" in the most extraordinary of times. The founders of the organization did not think of Queens as a place to sleep when they were not working in Manhattan - but rather as a place to live. Churches, temples, elementary and secondary schools, colleges and performing arts centers were built to enhance the quality of life in the borough. Today, thousands of immigrants come to Queens because it is a vital place to live and make a life in America. Our presence as a cultural institution in this borough for over 75 years is an indication of the success with which we continue to meet the cultural needs of our fellow citizens.
The Oratorio Society of Queens continues in its cultural mission - sharing a love of classical choral music with its friends and neighbors throughout Queens. With semi-annual performances in such venues such as the Performing Arts Center at Queensborough Community College, Bayside High School, St. Andrew Avellino Church, Cross Island Y, Temple Beth Sholom, Christ the King High School, Temple Beth-Am (Merrick, LI), Queens Terrace on the Park, Flushing Meadow Park, Forest Park Bandshell, Trinity Lutheran Church, Maria Regina Convent (Brentwood, LI), Bethany Baptist Church (Jamaica), Reform Temple of Forest Hills, and the Immaculate Conception Center, the Oratorio Society has thrilled thousands with exciting, high quality musical events.
Artistic Director David Close is a major reason for the success of Oratorio and the devotion of its members. A joy to work with, David is an all-around splendid musician - conductor, concert pianist, organist, music director, former opera coach (at Queens College), and teacher.
