CBA Ode to Joy

THE CHICAGO BAR ASSOCIATION CHORUS A BRIEF HISTORY

Beethoven Symphony No. 9 at Navy Pier, September 16, 2006

In the Fall of 2006, the Chicago Bar Association Symphony Orchestra celebrated its 20th Anniversary with a gala concert at Navy Pier. When David Katz, the CBASO’s music director, picked Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony as the signature piece for the concert, he chose Rebecca Patterson to recruit and prepare a chorus to sing the monumental 4th movement (the “Ode to Joy”). Patterson was well known by Maestro Katz and several orchestra members. Patterson readily signed on as chorus recruiter and director, with accompanist Janet Eckhardt, and a 91-voice chorus that raised the Navy Pier Ballroom roof. Shortly after the anniversary concert, Patterson and many chorus members expressed interest in forming a permanent vocal ensemble. Patterson accepted the challenge. Patterson asked Mark Burkland, a long-time friend, singer in her church choir and lawyer, to help with the myriad tasks of creating a chorus and convincing the CBA to accept the chorus as part of the CBA’s music program. The two contacted CBA Executive Director Terrence Murphy with their proposal. Terry was generously supportive, and within a few months of rigorous planning the Chicago Bar Association Chorus was born. The Chorus now includes dozens of attorneys and their family members as well as non-attorney colleagues and friends. Thanks to the leadership and support of the CBA, and the efforts of dedicated Chorus leaders, committee members, and volunteers, the Chorus is now in its 13th season.

56 ODE TO JOY