Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota Unveils 2025-26 'Life Journeys' Season

The Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota is set to captivate audiences with its 2025-26 season, titled "Life Journeys", offering a profound exploration of the human experience through choral music.

This season's repertoire delves into the various stages of life, presenting melodies and texts that reflect the aspirations of youth, the contemplations of old age, and the myriad moments in between.

Kennedy Niska, the executive director, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming performances, stating, "We are excited to present a season that truly represents our singers and community." She emphasized that each program will feature thought-provoking texts, carefully selected to resonate with the universal narrative of the human experience, ensuring there's something for everyone—children, teens, and adults alike.

Celebrating its 24th season, the Legacy Chorale continues to be a cornerstone of the Brainerd area's choral scene. With over 150 local adult and youth artists participating, the organization offers a platform for singers to share their voices. Under the leadership of Niska, who also conducts the Legacy Youth Chorale, and Brian Stubbs, conductor of the Legacy Chorale, the group has expanded its offerings. Notably, the Legacy Youth Chorale, established three years ago, has introduced a summer camp scheduled for August 11-15 at Central Lakes College and plans for a Festival Choir experience in late March 2026. Further opportunities for adult singers are anticipated to be announced later in the season.

Tickets for each event will be available 6-8 weeks prior to performance dates. The public is encouraged to stay updated on the Legacy Chorale's programming by visiting their official website, subscribing to their email list, following their social media channels, or calling 218-270-8212 to join the mailing list.

Season Events:

Cabaret

September 27 at The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes

The season kicks off with the signature fundraiser, featuring dinner, drinks, and a silent auction. Attendees will enjoy performances by talented vocalists from the Brainerd lakes area, with conductors Stubbs and Niska serving as emcees. The evening will offer a preview of the "Life Journeys" theme through song and dialogue.

Songs for the Ages

November 15 at CTC Center at Pillager High School

November 16 at Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts

The Legacy Chorale and Legacy Youth Chorale unite to present a program that takes listeners on a musical journey through key life experiences. Audiences will enjoy selections like "When I Grow Up" from "Matilda the Musical" and "Children Will Listen" from "Into the Woods." This concert series is truly 'by the ages, for the ages!'

Disney Spectacular

February 21 at Chalberg Theatre, Central Lakes College

An enchanting evening of Disney magic awaits, featuring solo performances and full choir numbers by members of the Legacy Youth Chorale. Special guests, treats, dazzling costumes, and a unique sing-along will make this event unforgettable for all ages.

LYC Choral Festival

March 28 at Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts

This festival invites guest choirs and singers from the region to come together for a day of music-making, culminating in a memorable performance.

Alzheimer’s Stories

April 24 at Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts

The Legacy Chorale presents "Alzheimer's Stories," an extended work in three movements for choir and chamber orchestra. The piece shares lived experiences of those affected by Alzheimer's, as well as the perspectives of family members and caregivers.

LYC Finale Concert

April 26 at Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts

The Legacy Youth Chorale's Finale Concert will feature both youth choirs, Choristers and Concert Choir, in a joyful end-of-year performance highlighting favorite music from the season and celebrating the singers and their families.

Auditions:

Auditions for all choirs are scheduled for August at the Franklin Arts Center in Brainerd.

Youth entering grades 3-10 are invited to audition for the Legacy Youth Chorale on August 8 or August 9.

Adults of all ages and high school singers (grades 11 and 12) are invited to audition for the Legacy Chorale on August 12 or August 13. The Legacy Chorale is primarily seeking tenor and bass voices at this time; sopranos and altos are welcome to audition, but openings are limited.

To schedule an audition appointment, visit the official website. For alternative audition times, contact Niska at kennedy@legacychorale.org or call 218-270-8212.

As the Legacy Chorale embarks on this new season, the community is invited to join in celebrating the rich tapestry of life through the power of choral music.