The Claremont Chorale, the premier community choral group in the greater Claremont area, begins rehearsals for its 47th season, featuring a wide variety of choral works.

New singers, especially men, are welcome to join the current membership of 70 voices. Interested singers are encouraged to schedule an audition by contacting Gregory Norton, Chorale director, at director@claremontchorale.org or by calling (626) 797-3656. Singers may also sit in on rehearsals Monday, September 8, 15 or 22, from 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. at Decker Hall at Pilgrim Place, to get a feel for the group before scheduling an audition.

Founded in 1968, the Chorale presents a diverse international repertoire of music from the 1500s to the present time. Concerts planned for the 2014-2015 season include “Mary’s Lullaby” featuring Christmas music about Mary, the mother of Jesus, on Saturday, December 6 (performances at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.). On Saturday, March 14, the Chorale will be joined by a professional chamber orchestra for “Elegy,” featuring a performance of “Cantata 106” by JS Bach, “Requiem” by Gabriel Faure and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ ethereal “Flos Campi.”?The final concert of the season will be “Trees & PhDs” on Saturday, June 13, celebrating locally-sourced choral music that resonates with Claremont, including songs of community, learning and heritage.

Members of the Chorale come from all walks of life. They currently rehearse at 7:30 p.m. every Monday from September through May in Decker Hall at Pilgrim Place in Claremont. For more information, visit the Claremont Chorale website at www.claremontchorale.org.