Founded in 1902 as a women’s chorus, the Arioso Chorale of the Friday Morning Music Club became a mixed choir in 1986, accompanied by an orchestral ensemble. Under the direction of Paul Leavitt, the Chorale is a musical home for FMMC singers and instrumentalists and a vital contributor to the Washington DC community music scene.
Arioso’s 2025-2026 season comprises the following concerts, all at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation on Capitol Hill (212 Capitol Street, NE, Washington, DC). Thursday concerts start at 8 PM, and Sunday concerts start at 4 PM.
Chorale rehearsals take place on Sunday afternoons from 1:30 to 4pm at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation starting in August.
The Chorale Orchestra begins rehearsals in September. Most orchestra rehearsals are on Monday evenings from 7:30 to 10pm and are held in the Church of the Reformation Sanctuary. One joint rehearsal with the Chorale is scheduled before the start of dress rehearsals.
Soloists are encouraged to contact Mr. Leavitt about opportunities to sing on Chorale concerts during the year.
Singers in all voice parts are encouraged to join the Chorale. Singers new to the Club and the Chorale can expect to be auditioned by Mr. Leavitt to ensure proper voice placement in the Chorale. For detailed audition requirements, visit our auditions page.
String players (especially violinists) and other instrumentalists are encouraged to participate in the Chorale Orchestra at any time. Please contact the Chorale Manager for details about opportunities.
Peter Baum, Chorale Manager
chorale@fmmc.org
Paul Leavitt, Artistic Director & Conductor
choraledirector@fmmc.org
