Hagerstown Choral Arts, Inc.

Hagerstown Choral Arts, Inc. (HCA) is an auditioned, community-based volunteer chorus dedicated to bringing the highest level of choral music to Hagerstown, Washington County and the Tri-State area.

HCA was founded in 1993 by Gregory P. Shook and Ned Wetherald , two local musicians who desired to create a vocal ensemble that would perform both sacred and secular music from a variety of musical periods, styles and cultures. Prior to 1993, Hagerstown and Washington County lacked an established choral group, so HCA has filled a void in the community’s cultural arts scene. After Ned Wetherald departed from the group in 1994 to become Director of Music and Worship for the Presbyterian Church in State College, PA, Gregory P. Shook became sole musical and artistic director, and has been principal conductor for every concert HCA has presented.

Entering into its 19th season, Hagerstown Choral Arts continues to grow in size, skills and variety of musical offerings. HCA has continued to hold an average of 50 members per season and furthers its goal to increase awareness and appreciation of music in the community by collaborating with local organizations, performing arts groups and musicians. HCA has performed in local churches and schools, and has frequently featured local musicians, soloists and music students in its annual concerts. HCA has also been invited to perform numerous times with both the Maryland Symphony Orchestra and with the Hagerstown Municipal Band. HCA members have proudly lead our National Anthem for our Hagerstown Suns and their fans.

HCA’s performances have consistently included at least two major concerts per year, with repertoire ranging from classical works such as Haydn’s “Creation” to lighter pop songs such as “Feelin’ Groovy” by Paul Simon. In addition to its full concerts, HCA also enjoys performing shorter concerts for local organizations and churches.

We are always interested in additional voices as well as non-singing volunteers! Please send a note to our contact email if you are interested in scheduling an audition (not as scary as it sounds!) or discussing volunteer opportunities with our group.