“Building and uniting our community through music.”
variouSaginaw Choral Society originated in 1935 with a grant from the C.K. Eddy Family Fund. SCS obtained its 501(c)(3) IRS tax designation in 1980 and filed Articles of Incorporation with the State of Michigan in 1986.
With offices in the beautiful Temple Theatre Complex of the Shaheen Performing Arts Center, Saginaw Choral Society provides audiences in the Great Lakes Bay Region with performances ranging from classical masterworks to popular favorites. Throughout each season SCS works to provide a variety of programs to engage performers and patrons in the musical arts.
Saginaw Choral Society has enjoyed the conducting leadership of seventeen directors since its inception. The SCS has been under the direction of Music Director Jeremiah Kraniak, a graduate of Saginaw Valley State University’s Music Education program and Central Michigan University’s Choral Conducting program since 2015.
As a community choir the chorus consists entirely of volunteer singers. Members from all walks of life representing counties throughout the Great Lakes Bay region rehearse Monday evenings from September through May at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Saginaw. Concerts are held in the magnificent Temple Theatre in Saginaw as well as in smaller venues in the region: First United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Castle Museum of Saginaw County, and the State Theatre in Bay City.
Singers come from a diverse range of backgrounds and musical experiences. Saginaw Choral Society attracts singers throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region.
Over its long history, the award-winning Saginaw Choral Society has performed with nationally renowned artists, including the Boys Choir of Harlem, jazz great Dave Brubeck and popular favorites Doc Severinson, Judy Collins, Michael Feinstein, The Canadian Brass, as well as countless local artists and professional musicians. Major works performed with orchestra include Carmina Burana with Dr.Jerry Blackstone on the podium, Verdi’s Requiem with Robert Page directing and Mendelssohn’s Elijah with the late William Warfield as soloist.
SCS enjoys frequent collaborations with musical colleagues and regional high school choirs. Joint endeavors have included reciprocal exchanges with Michigan’s Holland Chorale and Midland Music Society Chorale, and hosting choruses from the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Central Michigan University, and choirs from Midland and Heritage High, Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy and White Pine Middle School.
Through various fundraising efforts and the philanthropic generosity of patrons, sponsors, grantors and community donors, SCS strives to provide accessible musical opportunities to the Great Lakes Bay Region.