• Born in CT
• Country: USA

Biography

The phrase "Pro Arte" is frequently used as part of the name of organizations involved in classical music. There is a well-known Pro Arte Orchestra in Boston, a Pro Arte String Quartet, and a Pro Arte record label, as well as two prominent choral groups called the Pro Arte Singers. One is located in Stamford, CT, and the other in Bloomington, IN. The Connecticut group was founded in 1974 by Arthur Sjögren. From the beginning, it was a small ensemble of professional singers. The group was devoted to the concept of performing choral repertoire from the Renaissance to present day at the highest possible standard. Shortly, the group became well-known in Connecticut and beyond for its annual concert series, appearances at major festivals, and other performances. It also produced its own recordings and was incorporated in 1978. In 1979, the Pro Arte Singers moved from its original home in New Canaan, CT, to Stamford, a larger city. In 1993, Pro Arte commissioned a new work, The Nativity of Our Lord, by Robert Covery. The preparation and first performance of the composition was documented by a program on Connecticut Public Television. Since then, Pro Arte has continued to commission new American music. In 1991, Pro Arte initiated its innovative cabaret-style showcase performances, including the best of American popular and Broadway song. It has become a popular annual fund-raising event that includes a dinner and auction. Another favorite series conducted by Pro Arte is its Traditional Candlelight Christmas. It also sings annually with the Stamford Symphony in its Holiday Concert in December. In 1994, the Pro Arte established the Pro Arte Festival Chorus. This is a larger group of experienced volunteer singers who supplement the Pro Arte Singers in larger choral works. The same year, the Festival Orchestra was formed. The Festival Chorus and Orchestra now perform with the Pro Arte Singers in two concerts a year. Pro Arte's main concert series is held in the First Presbyterian Church (Fish Church) on Bedford Street in Stamford. It also sings regularly in New Haven and Norwalk. Critics have described the Pro Arte as the finest chamber choir in the Northeast. ~ Joseph Stevenson, All Music Guide