Orchestra Seattle/Seattle Chamber Singers Programs
In the words of Friedrich Nietzsche, “Art is the proper task of life.” George Shangrow believed in the power of music to bring joy to the human heart, stimulation to the mind, and inspiration to the human spirit. Founded by Shangrow over forty years ago, Orchestra Seattle and the Seattle Chamber Singers is a community-based orchestra and chorus created to provide artistically vibrant and musically engaging performances of masterpieces of the choral and orchestral literature, and to help meet the need for affordable musical performances and opportunities for participation in musical activities in our community. OSSCS is the only organization in the region that regularly combines both orchestra and chorus, presenting at least seven concerts per year. We maintain a baroque specialty in the masterpieces of Bach and Handel, but is also committed to a wide range of repertoire that includes Stravinsky, Britten, Vaughan Williams, Brahms, Bartok and so many more composers. The organization has also regularly commissioned and performed new works by Northwest composers. We believe, as George did, that music is essential to the life of a healthy, thriving community, and that music-making is a collaborative and uplifting experience. We believe that deep engagement with our community not only helps our music-making thrive, but that it brings good into the lives of those who work with us.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
On the last day of OSSCS’ 40th year, George Shangrow was killed in a car accident. The Board of Directors and the membership decided to honor Mr. Shangrow’s life by continuing on, emulating George’s generous, collaborative, joyful spirit. After three seasons led by talented guest conductors from all over the country, and after a three-year search, OSSCS will in June 2013 announce the selection of a new Conductor and Music Director. This will begin a new and exciting era for the organization and our family. OSSCS will continue its commitment to Seattle-area artists and composers, believing the Pacific Northwest is rich in talented individuals who should be heard and supported, and that audiences deserve to be able to hear and support them. We also support the concept of talented volunteer musicians, who have a place in the musical life of the community, allowing audiences to hear polished performances of great works at a reasonable price. As a high-performing but inexpensive, accessible alternative to the big professional performing arts organizations in the city, OSSCS is attractive to students, seniors, and individuals who wish to experience a large and varied repertoire.