Dr. Elise Hepworth, Director of Choral Studies at MWSU is taking on the role of Artistic Director for the St. Joseph Community Chorus.

Frank Thomas, founder and long time artistic director has retired from the position.

Dr. Hepworth is associate professor and Director of Choral Studies and Music Education at Missouri Western State University. She teaches choral literature, choral conducting, K-6 and 7-12 music methods courses, and conducts the MWSU Concert Chorale and the MWSU Renaissance and Chamber Singers.

Founded in 1980, the St. Joseph Community Chorus, in partnership with Missouri Western State University, presents interesting, challenging and diverse programs of choral music from classical to contemporary throughout the Midwest region. The Chorus, open to all age groups high school and above, includes 85 singers that rehearse weekly on the campus of MWSU. Singers may join the Chorus at the beginning of each semester and may take the course for university credit if they choose.

It is the mission of the St. Joseph Community Chorus to foster the enjoyment and appreciation of quality choral music among its membership and the regional community by providing an organization of the highest caliber to present exceptional performances of choral literature. This ensemble is the largest all-volunteer performing organization in Northwest Missouri.

The Community Chorus season will start with a welcome picnic for new and returning members on August 24th at 6:00 pm in Potter Hall. Audition for placement will begin at 6:30, registration at 6:45 and the first rehearsal will start at 7:15. Call the MWSU Department of Music at 271-4420 or email [email protected] for more information.