The Mendelssohn Glee Club of New York: A Legacy of Song
​Men who sing!
For over 158 years, the Mendelssohn Glee Club of New York City has championed male choral singing. Founded in 1866, we are the oldest non-college-affiliated men's chorus in the U.S. and the second oldest independent musical organization in the nation, surpassed only by the New York Philharmonic. Our journey is a testament to dedication, innovation, and an unwavering passion for music.​
Our History
About Felix Mendelssohn
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1809-1847) played a significant, though perhaps often understated, role in the landscape of 19th-century choral music, particularly for male voices.
Between 1820 and 1847, he wrote 38 songs for a cappella male chorus. These pieces were often intimate, written for informal gatherings with family and friends, or given as personal gifts, demonstrating a clear interest and facility in writing for this specific vocal configuration. He often intended these pieces for "outdoor" performance, suggesting a desire for music that could be enjoyed in social, recreational settings, which aligns perfectly with the spirit of nascent glee clubs.
The Club's Formative Years (1865-1892)
Originating in 1865 as a mixed amateur group, the Club became an exclusive male voice ensemble by 1866. Joseph Mosenthal, who led the Club for 29 years starting in 1867, was pivotal to our early success. His demanding style helped the Mendelssohn Glee Club achieve widespread acclaim by 1871, inspiring the formation of other prominent groups like the Apollo Club, the Boston Symphony, and the Philadelphia Orchestra. This "Golden Age" of the club saw highly sought-after membership and exclusive concert tickets.
The Club's prominence led to the construction of Mendelssohn Hall, financed by member Alfred Corning Clark. Opened in 1892, it featured an 1,100-seat auditorium and various facilities.​​
Navigating Change (Late 19th Century - Mid-20th Century)
The late 19th century brought challenges with the passing of both Mosenthal and Clark in 1896, leading to the sale and demolition of Mendelssohn Hall by 1912. Despite these setbacks, the Club persevered under conductors like Edward MacDowell and Walter Damrosch. A notable event was our participation in the world's first transcontinental concert on February 12, 1916, singing from the Waldorf Astoria to the Ellis Glee Club of Los Angeles. The Club continued through World War II under Cesare Sodero, and into the mid-20th century with Emerson Buckley and John Royer Bogue, celebrating our 100th season in 1966.
The Modern Era (1993-Present)
Since 1993, Eugene Wisoff has directed the Mendelssohn Glee Club, guiding us into the 21st century. Our core mission remains promoting men's choral singing and offering at least two free concerts annually. Our diverse repertoire spans classical, folk, pop, Broadway, operetta, and sacred music.
Today, we continue to engage the community through free public concerts, followed by receptions and sing-alongs. We have also performed at local hospitals, senior centers, and special events.
In an increasingly digital world, we emphasize the human element of live choral music and the unique camaraderie within our organization. We welcome new tenors and basses, holding auditions at the beginning of each fall and spring semester.
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The Mendelssohn Glee Club of New York City is a living testament to the enduring power of music and the human voice. We invite you to join us as we continue to write our remarkable story.
Join us!
Experience the power of men's voices in harmony. We typically offer two free public concerts annually (in May and December) and welcome new singers.
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Contact conductor Gene Wisoff
917-916-1959 or Click here
Support Our Mission
Donations help to defray the costs of the professionals in the group, conductor and accompanist, help rent rehearsal and performance spaces. And most importantly donations help keep performances free
Lend a Hand
The club always needs volunteers to man our welcome desk at concerts, run auctions, collect ads from businesses for our program, and help serve at our champagne receptions.