Interested in the choir?
See our online sign up form here:
https://eastshorechorale.com/community-choir-project-signup/
What is the EastShore Chorale?
History
The ECP Community Choir was a conceptual project by Eastman Community Projects (ECP), and now has formed into an official choir named The EastShore Chorale. Our current focus is the community of Regent Square, Pittsburgh. We think that one of the great ways for a community to engage with each other is through music, and gathering to sing together. So we thought we would put together a community choir, hire a professional choir director, find a venue, and get started to bring music, sung by a choir, to the Regent Square, Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. ECP’s effort for the community choir started as a conceptual project by artist John Eastman in November of 2017. In January of 2018, Ryan Keeling, a top choir director in the area, came on board as a consulting advisor. The development of the choir shifted into full gear in February of 2018 with Ben Filippone, a tremendous director joining us as choir director. As of June 2025, there are approximately 35 members of the choir.
How do I sign up for the choir?
Lucky You…..we created an online form for just that purpose. It also asks a few questions that help us gauge where each person is in terms of singing and choir experience. You can find it here.
Do I have to live in Regent Square to be part of the choir?
No. We will be happy to welcome participants from surrounding communities…so sign up!
Where does the choir rehearse?
The Community Choir meets and rehearse at the WSCC (Wilkins School Community Street) on Charleston Ave, Regent Square.
Does The EastShore Chorale sing in Public?
Yes, we perform art least three concerts public every season. They are great fun!
What type of music does the choir sing?
Our repertoire includes a wide range of music from several centuries of classical choral repertory to arrangements of world music, jazz, spirituals, gospel, and show tunes.
What is the name of the choir?
As of June 15th, 2018, The choir’s name is officially The EastShore Chorale.
How often are rehearsals?
Rehearsals will be weekly except when holidays occur. This is necessary to maintain a consistent progress and forward production of the choir.
How much time should I plan to spend at Weekly Rehearsals?
Rehearsals are 2 hours in length.
Can I donate or sponsor The EastShore Chorale?
Yes, we would love to have your help. Please see our Donations Page.
If I sign up, am I automatically in The Community Choir or is there a qualifying process?
There will be a brief audition that will not require any preparation.
Is there a fee for joining The Community Choir?
There are dues collected to cover basic costs such as music, rent, expenses. Seasonal dues are $50.00.
How many people are currently in The Eastshore Chorale?
Although it fluctuates slightly every season, we maintain approximately 35 people in the choir, and it ranges up to 40. We have an unofficial objective of 50 people in the choir.
I can sing, but can’t read music. Can I still join The EastShore Chorale?
While people who can sight-sing are especially sought, it is not a strict requirement. What is most important is a good ear sufficient to sing accurately and learn the music. Music reading skills will be gained over time with experience in the choir, along with vocal technique, aural skills, and general musicianship.
Will there be musicians performing with the choir?
A piano accompanist will be present at many of the rehearsals and all performances, and periodically we invite some classical and other types of musicians to a performance event.
Can I volunteer to help at performances?
Yes, indeed. There are always a million things to do. Some are help spreading the word, greeting people, helping people to their seats, handing out program information, and just plain being there to support the effort and encourage fun. Use our Contact form on our website to reach out.
I don’t sing, but I want to be involved in The EastShore Chorale. How can I help?
There are many ways to be involved, including those mentioned above, and also such things as serving on a committee, recruiting, fundraising, and being a groupie!
How is The EastShore Chorale Funded?
The EastrShore Chorale was originally funded by a contribution from artist John Eastman of Eastman Community Projects, and several other small contributions. At present, funds are raised from member dues, concert and online donations. In essence, our objective is to be funded by a combination of individuals and public or other non-profit funding grants.
Is Eastman Community Projects or The EastShore Choral a non-profit organization?
The EastShore Chorale is project of Eastman Community Projects (ECP). ECP is not organized as a 501c3 nonprofit, but may pursue that organization under the Laws of the State of Pennsylvania.