Making music since 2012…
Formed in May 2012, the Orpheus Singers is central Pennsylvania's premier chamber choral ensemble. The approximately twenty-four voiced choir, under the direction of conductor Jacob Mandell, has been praised for its choral artistry, outstanding caliber of musicianship, and innovative programing, creating experiences described by audiences as "stunning", "transcendent", and "inspirational". A frequent collaborator, the ensemble has performed alongside the Pennsylvania Chamber Orchestra (PCO), Altoona Symphony Orchestra (ASO), and the Penn State School of Music, and at venues such as the Music at Penn’s Woods Festival (sponsored by Penn State University) and the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts. Notable appearances include the Orpheus Singers' performance of Sergei Rachmaninoff's All-Night Vigil, the northeastern U.S. premiere of Timothy Takach's Helios, and as a participating ensemble in the Penn State School of Music's production of Leonard Bernstein's Mass in 2015.
Jacob Mandell, Artistic Director & Conductor
Described as “a class of his own” and “a rising choral star”, Mr. Jacob Mandell is quickly being recognized as a premiere choral conductor, educator, and clinician. As a native of central Pennsylvania, he is widely recognized as a leader in community engagement and has built several choral organizations and programs, enhancing their musical footprint in the area. Choirs under Jacob’s direction have garnered praise for their artistry, sensitivity, and inspiring and moving programming.
Jacob enters into his fourth season with the Orpheus Singers and his tenth season with the Clearfield Choral Society. As a public music educator, he is now the newly-appointed director of choirs for the Hollidaysburg Area School District. Prior to this appointment, he served as the director of choirs and drama for the Curwensville Area School District. Choirs under his direction have performed with notable organizations, such as the Nittany Valley Symphony, Altoona Symphony Orchestra, and at conferences of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association. In addition, he serves as part of the Department of Liturgical Music for the Orthodox Church in America.
Jacob received his Masters of Music in Choral Conducting degree from Simpson College and a Bachelor's of Science degree in Music Education from Messiah University. He is an active member of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA), American Choral Director's Association (ACDA), Chorus America, and the Orthodox Church in America (OCA).
The Executive Board
The Orpheus Singers Executive Board is made up of a group of dedicated volunteers who steer and support efforts relating to strategic planning, logistics, development, financial accounting, and promotion. Our current executive board members are: Rachel W. M. Galloway, President; Liz King, Vice President; Theo Chitester, Secretary; Sandi Rockwell, Treasurer; and Karen Simring, Development and Outreach. If you would be interested in serving on the Executive Board, please email us at theorpheussingers@gmail.com.