photo by: Peter Michaelis 2025
(K a′ r I S)
Charis Chamber Voices is a choral ensemble known for excellent musicianship, vocal clarity, and a distinctively rich, warm sound. Founded in 1994 by Suzanne Peck, the group has attracted some of the finest amateur voices in Westchester County and has gained a devoted following in the metropolitan region. Dennis Keene, director of New York City’s renowned Voices of Ascension, has called Charis “the finest chorus in Westchester County.”
Charis presents diverse musical programs, including intimate a capella chamber pieces, major choral works with orchestra, and popular jazz tunes. Charis appeared with the Westchester-based orchestra Philharmonia Virtuosi when under the direction of the late Richard Kapp. The group has also participated in the Soclair Music Festival in Lebanon, New Jersey, and was a featured ensemble at the Dennis Keene Summer Choral Festival in Kent, Connecticut.
For twelve years, Charis was led by the late Art Sjögren. Under his baton and guidance, Charis continued to flourish. They performed at Caramoor and participated in an International Choral Series, performing both in Bedford, NY, and in Germany with the Camerata Vocale of Hannover, Germany.
In addition to the extensive discography of live concert recordings, two additional recordings have been produced: Hoping It Might Be So, a selection of Christmas music including work from contemporary American composers, and From Sorrow Free, a collection of American songs from ranging from hymns of Colonial New England to original settings of 20th century poetry.
The group, currently celebrating 30 years, is known for its diverse repertoire, unique blend of voices and captivating performances. With current Artistic Director Jeremy Wiggins, Charis continues to share great works like Bach's St. John Passion with Baroque Orchestra as well as new programming like the American Elegy concert featuring Jeffrey Van’s A Procession Winding Round Me.
Charis Chamber Voices is a choral ensemble known for excellent musicianship, vocal clarity, and a distinctively rich, warm sound. Founded in 1994 by Suzanne Peck, the group has attracted some of the finest amateur voices in Westchester County and has gained a devoted following in the metropolitan region. Dennis Keene, director of New York City’s renowned Voices of Ascension, has called Charis “the finest chorus in Westchester County.”
Charis presents diverse musical programs, including intimate a capella chamber pieces, major choral works with orchestra, and popular jazz tunes. Charis appeared with the Westchester-based orchestra Philharmonia Virtuosi when under the direction of the late Richard Kapp. The group has also participated in the Soclair Music Festival in Lebanon, New Jersey, and was a featured ensemble at the Dennis Keene Summer Choral Festival in Kent, Connecticut.
For twelve years, Charis was led by the late Art Sjögren. Under his baton and guidance, Charis continued to flourish. They performed at Caramoor and participated in an International Choral Series, performing both in Bedford, NY, and in Germany with the Camerata Vocale of Hannover, Germany.
In addition to the extensive discography of live concert recordings, two additional recordings have been produced: Hoping It Might Be So, a selection of Christmas music including work from contemporary American composers, and From Sorrow Free, a collection of American songs from ranging from hymns of Colonial New England to original settings of 20th century poetry.
The group, currently celebrating 30 years, is known for its diverse repertoire, unique blend of voices and captivating performances. With current Artistic Director Jeremy Wiggins, Charis continues to share great works like Bach's St. John Passion with Baroque Orchestra as well as new programming like the American Elegy concert featuring Jeffrey Van’s A Procession Winding Round Me.