| The History of the Oshkosh Choraliers The Oshkosh Choraliers was formed in l970 when the Apollo Male chorus and the Cecilian Singers disbanded. Recreation Department Director Charles Drayna, was approached with the proposition to form a mixed choir. The first concert was held on March 23, 1971 at the Webster Stanley School auditorium under the direction of Dr. Harold Porter, with Mrs. Thomas Kuble as pianist and a chorus of 60 members. Over the years accordion, string bass, guitar and piano were added and later orchestral accompaniment and audience participation. In the early 1980's membership and attendance declined forcing the elimination of the orchestra and re-introduction of piano and taped music. Membership was at an all time low when Mary Backus became director in 1992. Todd Repp joined the group as accompanist shortly thereafter. The following years saw a membership increase to an all time high requiring a move from the Grand Opera House stage to the Civic Auditorium. Concert's typically included classical, gospel, rock, swing and jazz pieces and, in the past few years dance choreography. To date, membership has stayed stable between 75 to 90 members. The 2007 concert was performed for over 900 people. The group has stayed financially healthy using fund raising and grant writing. |