Dear Friends,
We’re pleased to present our annual impact report, which details the significant strides we’ve made this past year in expanding our education & outreach efforts and visibility within our community. This report reflects our commitment to our mission and showcases the tangible results of your generous support. We’re proud to share more about our success to demonstrate what we’ve been able to do together!
From a thrilling performance of the Rachmaninoff Vespers at the Cathedral Basilica, our first performance of Brahms Requiem in over 35 years and presenting all six of Bach’s beloved Brandenburg Concertos, the 2024-2025 season was truly a testament to our artistic ambition. We also brought Bach’s iconic Mass in B minor to life and shared our music with new audiences through community events at the St. Louis Art Museum, STEAM Academy at Berkley-South High School, First Baptist Church in Ferguson and much more! Concluding the season as a featured performer in the Opening Night Concert of the Chorus America Conference solidified our leadership and respect within the St. Louis arts community.
As we look forward to celebrating our 85th Anniversary, we’re grateful to you for helping us create a strong foundation that continues to uphold us today and will support us for years to come.
Melissa Payton
Executive Director
A. Dennis Sparger
Music Director & Conductor
Season Highlights
Community Impact
Finding Your Voice provided 119 HOURS OF FREE VOICE LESSONS to high school students to advance their skills and technique.
147 STUDENTS ATTENDED THE FREE EDUCATION CONCERT and experienced a behind-the-scenes look at pursuing a music career.
“My students in their low-income neighborhoods rarely have opportunities to go to concerts, and almost never get to hear classical music. Having funding for buses and creating this concert during the school day specifically for them is so helpful. Seeing their faces light up when hearing someone sing music that sounds impossible to them is so exciting.”
— Robin Reynolds, teacher at McCluer High School
“I have absolutely seen growth in each of my students who participate. I’m hearing them make progress with their vocal technique and become more independent musicians. This in turn is not only helping them as individuals, but our entire choral program.”
— Stephanie Ruggles, teacher at Ritenour High School
Bach Talk Podcast
Bach Talk takes you behind the scenes to uncover fascinating stories, share musical insights and introduce you to the people who bring classical music to life.
5,039 downloads with listeners in 64 countries.
First LIVE Bach Talk Recording with Leonard Slatkin
2024-2025 Financials
Income
Expenses
In Memoriam
We are heartbroken about the unexpected passing of our dear friend and cherished colleague, Sandra Geary. Sandra was more than just an incredibly talented and dedicated musician; she was a joy to work with and truly adored teaching, accompanying countless singers and musicians throughout our community.
Her warm, cheerful, and humble spirit made her a treasured part of our family for 32 years, and her absence leaves a profound void.
Our Mission
To provide stimulating and enriching musical and educational experiences for audiences and performers in the tradition of Johann Sebastian Bach.