The Niles Metropolitan Chorus is a nonprofit choral organization based in the Chicago area, dedicated to presenting superb choral music primarily in Chicago and its near north suburbs since its founding in 2013. The Chorus is known for its collaboration with the Musica Lumina Orchestra, providing performances that specialize in a wide range of oratorio and choral repertoire spanning multiple musical periods and styles.

History

The Niles Metropolitan Chorus was established in 2013 and has since been a significant presence in the northern Chicago suburbs' choral scene. Over the years, it has achieved major milestones, including a notable performance at Chicago’s prestigious Orchestra Hall in 2019. The group has also collaborated with other notable ensembles such as the Chicago Bar Association Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and the DePaul Community Chorus, enhancing its artistic reach and community engagement.

Repertoire and Performances

The Chorus is recognized for its diverse programming, which includes masterworks by Beethoven, Bruckner, Gounod, Mendelssohn, Rutter, and Saint-Saëns, as well as renowned Requiems by Cherubini, Mozart, and Fauré. Their repertoire also features Haydn’s Creation, the Passions of St. John and St. Matthew by J.S. Bach, and an annual presentation of Handel’s Messiah. The organization is committed to bringing these classical masterpieces to life with professional soloists, under the artistic direction of Marek Rachelski.

One of the annual highlights is the December performance of Handel’s Messiah, which features the full chorus, Musica Lumina Orchestra, and professional soloists, including additional arias and choruses beyond the standard presentation.

Artistic Leadership and Collaboration

Artistic Director Marek Rachelski leads the Niles Metropolitan Chorus and directs their performances from the harpsichord in works like Handel’s Messiah. The Chorus’s ongoing partnership with the Musica Lumina Orchestra allows for a rich orchestral accompaniment that complements the choral performances. The Orchestra itself offers a wide range of programming, from chamber music to full orchestral concerts, which serves to enhance the cultural offerings available to the community.

Community Impact

Since its inception, the Niles Metropolitan Chorus has played a vital role in enriching the cultural landscape of Chicago’s northern suburbs, serving both local audiences and choral music enthusiasts with high-quality performances. Its commitment to educational and collaborative programs with other musical organizations underscores its mission to foster a vibrant choral community.

Note: The organization operates as a nonprofit entity under EIN 850804812.

[1] https://nilesmetropolitanchorus.com [2] https://www.journal-topics.com/articles/niles-metropolitan-chorus-to-premiere-new-work/ [3] https://nilesmetropolitanchorus.com/nmc-concerts [4] https://desplainestheatre.com/event/niles-metropolitan-chorus-musica-lumina-orchestra-presents-handels-messiah-2/ [5] https://metropolitanchorale.org