We Are the Amherst College Choral Society

The Amherst College Choral Society first began to materialize when the Glee Club was founded as an octet back in the spring of 1865. Today, Choral Society is made up of the 65 voice Glee Club, the Concert Choir, and the student-led Madrigal Singers.

We have toured to over 60 countries, most recently to Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia and New Orleans!

We are directed by Dr. Arianne Abela.

Groups in the Choral Society

The Glee Club

The Amherst College Glee Club, founded in 1865, is an SATB vocal ensemble, and one of the oldest continuous student organizations at the College. Previously a Tenor/Bass ensemble, in 2022 it came to encompass all voices in the Choral Society, merging with the Chorus. The club has a history of international touring, having to date performed in over 55 countries

The Concert Choir

The Concert Choir is a 27-voice ensemble restricted to members of the Amherst College Glee Club. This chamber ensemble performs rigorous choral music from the Renaissance to newly commissioned works by renowned choral composers. Recent collaborations include composers such as Jake Runestad, Brandon Waddles, and Sydney Guillaume.

The Madrigal Singers

The Madrigal Singers is a 10-15 member student-directed ensemble specializing in medieval and renaissance repertoire.

A choir singing in a church

Our Recent Performances

Listen to and watch some of our most recent performances by the Amherst College Glee Club and Concert Choir.

Videos Audio Recordings
A photo of a choir on a stage singing with a piano playing off to the side

Our Director and History

Learn more about our director, Arianne Abela, and a brief history of some important moments at the “Singing College.”

Learn More