Antiochian Concert Choir Begins Recruitment for 2026–2027 Season

ENGLEWOOD, NJ — The Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese's Department of Sacred Music has opened auditions for its Concert Choir, inviting accomplished singers from both the Byzantine and four-part Western choral traditions to apply for the 2026–2027 season.

The auditioned ensemble will begin its season with a Nativity concert on Dec. 12 at Sts. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Potomac, Maryland. Additional performances are planned for the 2027 Winter Sacred Music Institute in Modesto, California, before the choir concludes the season at the Antiochian Archdiocese's Biennial Convention in Anaheim, California, in July 2027. The Department of Sacred Music said the choir seeks to uphold its mission of pursuing "musical excellence in worship for the Glory of God" through careful preparation and high artistic standards.

Applicants may audition for the Byzantine choir, the four-part choir, or both. Four-part choir candidates must submit a recording of their assigned vocal part while singing along with a provided accompaniment track. Those seeking to join the Byzantine choir are asked to record the "Glory" portion of Chadi Karam's "Doxasticon at the Praises for the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord." All audition materials must be submitted by Sept. 11.

Now entering its third year, the Concert Choir was founded through the vision of Mareena and Fr. John El-Massih. The ensemble has appeared at multiple Archdiocese conventions, Winter Sacred Music Institutes, and other major Orthodox events, and its recordings have been featured in "The Encounter" Orthodox prayer app. Looking ahead, the choir is also scheduled to perform at Carnegie Hall in the spring of 2028.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the OCA recognized a music ministry leader after 35 years of service.