Masterworks Chorale Press Release
February 23, 2010

Masterworks Chorale is honored and pleased to announce having received this year’s prestigious Diamond Award, Arts Organization from the Peninsula Arts Council. The Peninsula Arts Council Diamond Awards are presented to recognize outstanding contributions to the arts made by individual artists, educators, volunteers, foundations, corporations, or by government support in San Mateo County.

In addition to the Diamond Award, Masterworks Chorale has also received commendations from many local officials. Governor Schwarzenegger said,

“I applaud your terrific efforts to support the arts in San Mateo County. Through your actions, you promote cultural awareness and understanding, and I commend you for working hard to continue California’s legacy of artistic excellence. Thank you for your fantastic contributions to your community and our Golden State.”

A Certificate of Appreciation from Congresswoman Jackie Speier says,

“Your hard work and dedication in cultural arts has significantly contributed to San Mateo County. It is businesses like yours that make our community a better place. Keep up the great work!”

A Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition was received from Congress Member Anna Eshoo

“…in recognition of outstanding and invaluable service to the community.”

A Senate Certificate of Recognition was received from State Senator S. Joseph Simitian

“…for advancing the arts in San Mateo County.”

State Senator Dr. Leland Yee recognized Masterworks Chorale for,

“…dedication to the arts in San Mateo County, and applaud its exemplary service to our community.”

A California State Assembly Certificate of Recognition,“…in recognition of your outstanding contributions to the arts in San Mateo County,” was received from the Honorable Assembly Member Jerry Hill.

Assembly Member Ira Ruskin sent a California Legislature Assembly Certificate of Recognition presented to Masterworks Chorale,

“In honor of your contribution to our community through commitment to arts education and development….”

The Board of Supervisors of San Mateo County commends Masterworks,

“…for your outstanding achievements and contributions to the arts in San Mateo County.”

Mayor John Lee sent a congratulatory Proclamation to Masterworks Chorale from the City of San Mateo.

According to Executive Director Kevin Stacy, Masterworks Chorale is an auditioned chorus of 90 experienced singers: adult professionals with diverse backgrounds from all walks of life, college students and professional musicians, based at the College of San Mateo (CSM). Artistic Director Dr. Bryan Baker provides outstanding musical leadership. The Chorale has grown and developed immensely under his direction in the last eight years.

Each year Masterworks Chorale presents four sets of concerts. They are now in the process of preparing for their March 13-14 concert set, “Spotlight on Broadway”, with great songs from Rodgers and Hammerstein, Leonard Bernstein, and Steven Sondheim. The concerts will also include solos and duets by professional vocalists Shawnette Sulker, Jessica Deardorff, and Norman DeVol, as well as audience sing-alongs of Broadway favorites.

The Chorale was founded in 1964 and throughout 46 years has been critically recognized as one of Northern California’s finest choral ensembles. Its repertoire includes choral works composed by the masters from the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic Eras, to the works of present day composers destined to be future “masters”. The Chorale is committed to excellence, and its singers are passionate about sharing the music, with the mission:

Masterworks Chorale exists to inspire our community. We dedicate our professional presentation of superior choral music to the enrichment, nourishment, education and entertainment of our audience, striving to create a meaningful experience for patron and performer.

For further information call (650) 574-6313 or go to www.masterworks.org

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