Mendelssohn
Glee Club of NYC

In the bustling, ever-changing landscape of New York City’s choral scene, there is a constant that has hummed beneath the surface for over thirty years. If you walk into a rehearsal room on the Upper West Side on a Monday night, you’ll find a group of men—tenors, baritones, and basses—gathered around a piano. At the center of it all is Gene Wisoff, the conductor who has served as the musical heartbeat of the Mendelssohn Glee Club since 1993. To lead any musical organization f

In the Mendelssohn Glee Club (MGC), the man standing in the row next to you is often more than just a fine singer—he is a creative force whose work has graced some of New York’s most prestigious stages. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on Jon Pohlmann, a long-standing member of our ensemble and a composer whose reach extends from the traditional TTBB choral world to the cutting edge of contemporary dance. He follows in the footsteps of Burleigh and Oley Speaks, who sang with

When we think of the "Golden Age" of American song, we often picture the glitz of Broadway or the rise of jazz. However, much of the era’s soul lived in the booming, disciplined harmonies of men’s choral music. At the center of this world was Oley Speaks, a man whose melodies became the soundtrack of early 20th-century American life. Someone we celebrate in our Spring Concert on May 12. Who was Oley Speaks? Oley Speaks (1874–1948) was a quintessential American success story.

Since its founding in 1866, the Mendelssohn Glee Club has served as a sanctuary for vocal excellence and a platform for some of the world’s most significant artists. The Club has a storied history of presenting legendary soloists—from the trailblazing Marian Anderson to Metropolitan Opera icons like Licia Albanese, Aprilo Milo and Helen Traubel . As we look toward our upcoming concert on May 12th, we are thrilled to welcome back a soprano who is currently carving her own "

The celebration of our long history at our Spring Concert on May 12th would not be complete without singing a piece arranged or written by Cesare Sodero. In this concert, our wonderful soloist Brandie Sutton. will join the choir in performing Sodero's arrangement of Great is Jehovah , the Lord, (Die Allmacht) by Franz Schubert In the hallowed archives of New York City’s musical history, few names command as much quiet respect as Cesare Sodero . While his name is etched into t

While history often remembers Harry T. Burleigh as a student, he was, in reality, one of the most significant teachers in American music. He was the bridge between the "Sorrow Songs" of his ancestors and the grand concert halls of the 19th-century elite—navigating the worlds of Antonín Dvořák, the Mendelssohn Glee Club , and Edward MacDowell with a dignity that reshaped the American sound. The Informal Classroom: Teaching Dvořák In 1892, when the Czech composer Antonín Dvoř

In the spring of 1932, the musical world’s eyes were fixed on a "colossal enterprise" that many believed was impossible: the American premiere of Arnold Schoenberg’s Gurre-Lieder . At the center of this storm was the Glee Club of New York, joining forces with the legendary Leopold Stokowski to bring a spectral, late-Romantic masterpiece to life. Leopold Stokowski and Arnold Schoenberg shared a relationship defined by a profound, if occasionally strained, mutual respect—a par

As the Mendelssohn Glee Club prepares to perform "Bonnie Ann" at its Spring concert 2026, we look back at the life of the man who first brought this music to our rehearsal rooms. Edward MacDowell was more than just a conductor; he was a pioneer of American music whose life was defined by a bridge between the old worlds of Europe and the new energy of New York. A Prodigy’s Education Born in New York City in 1860, MacDowell’s talent was evident almost from the moment he sat at

Choral music holds a special place in the hearts of many. It connects voices, stories, and emotions in a way that few other art forms can. As someone who cherishes the power of male choral singing, I invite you to join me on a journey to discover some of the most inspiring choral masterpieces. Together, we will explore the rich tapestry of choral repertoire, uncover hidden gems, and celebrate the timeless beauty of this art form. Why Explore Choral Repertoire? Exploring chora

New York's vibrant cultural scene pulses with music, and among its most cherished traditions are the city's choral groups. These ensembles bring voices together in harmony, creating moments of beauty and connection. I have always been fascinated by how these groups blend history, community, and artistry. Today, I want to share insights into the world of New York choral groups, their significance, and how you can become part of this inspiring musical journey. The Rich History

Singing in a men's choir is more than just making music. It is a journey of connection, joy, and personal growth. When I first joined a men's choir in New York, I found a welcoming space where my voice mattered. The harmony of voices, the thrill of performance, and the friendships formed along the way made every rehearsal a highlight of my week. If you love to sing or want to explore your musical side, joining a men's choir can be a life-changing experience. Why You Should Jo

Program A Celebration of Freedom, Joy, and Hope TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, at 7 pm (Doors open at 6:30 PM) RSVP THE REDEEMER WEST SIDE 150 W. 83 St. New York, NY 10024 Program Songs of freedom: This Land is Your Land - by Woodie Guthrie. One of the greatest protest songs was written in response to the overly simplistic patriotism of Irving Berlin's "God Bless America." Once to Every Man and Nation - by James Russell Lowell, arranged by George Mead . The original poem was wri

Male choirs have a rich and vibrant history that spans centuries. Their voices have echoed through cathedrals, concert halls, and community gatherings, creating a unique and powerful sound. As a member of the 159-year-old Mendelssohn Glee Club , who cherishes the tradition and energy of male singing groups, I find the journey of these choirs fascinating. Let’s explore how male choirs have evolved, their historical roots, and their ongoing impact today. The History of Male Ch