The Central Chamber Chorale was organized in 1971 by Dr. Jerry Schroeder, music instructor at the University of Wisconsin Marshfield/Wood County. Other Central Wisconsin residents from Medford, Curtiss, Auburndale, Spence, Stratford, Neillsville and Owen have subsequently joined the Chorale at various times. The current director, Greg Reierson, is the 7th since the group's inception. The Central Chamber chorale presents major choral literature, sacred and secula, accompanied and unaccompanied, from all musical periods, for Central Wisconsin communities. Two concert series are presented each year - fall and spring. The two regular concert sites are Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield, with an additional site rotated among neighboring communities including Abbotsford, Medford, Spencer, Neillsville and Pittsville. Membership is by audition. Rehearsals are on Monday evenings at Marshfield High School. The size of the group has varied from 25 to more than 40 singers who come from a wide variety of backgrounds and musical experiences. When these different people come together it is to learn not only the notes and rhythms, but to strive for the heart of the musical message. This is the joy the Chorale hopes to express to singers and listeners alike. Highlights from the Chorale's history include an American Bicentennial concert with guest conductor, Robert DeCormier; a performance at the Wisconsin Choral Directors Association convention; and several broadcasts on Wisconsin Public Radio. Larger works performed by the group (some with orchestra and guest soloists) have included Bach's "Sing Ye to the Lord", "Cantata #4" and "Mass in b minor"; Mozart's "Regina Coeli", "Requiem" and "Missa brevis in F"; Haydn's "Creation"; Honegger's "King David"; Britten's "Rejoice in the Lamb"; Vaughan Williams' "Mass in g minor"; Pinkham's "Wedding Cantata"; Copland's "In the Beginning"; and Rutter's "Gloria." Additionally, a myriad of shorter choral pieces from the Renaissance through the 20th century have found their places in Chorale programs. Support for Central Chamber Chorale comes through an annual fund drive in November, membership contributions, and audience donations at concerts. It has been Chorale policy never to charge admission, thus making our concerts accessible to anyone who wishes to attend. In-kind support includes most concert sites and rehearsal space at Marshfield High School.
