Experience the Joy and Transformative Power of Choral Music
Announcing our 58th Season!
The Oratorio Society of Virginia is thrilled to present a season of powerful music, community spirit, and timeless masterpieces. We began with the luminous warmth of Camille Saint-Saëns’ Christmas Oratorio (Oratorio de Noël) on December 20, 2025, at Charlottesville’s historic Paramount Theater—a perfect celebration to kick off the holiday season. On March 14th, we joined the national America250 initiative with a special program, “Together in Song: Songs of Democracy,” honoring our shared history through music. Finally, in a breathtaking grand finale, our 100+-voice chorus, full orchestra, and guest soloists will bring Felix Mendelssohn’s monumental work, the oratorio Elijah, to life in May 2026.
Season finale: Mendelssohn’s Elijah
May 10th at 3:30 p.m. at Old Cabell Hall (UVA)
The Oratorio Society of Virginia believes that there is no age at which you cannot be moved by beautiful choral music. However, we do not recommend that children under 6 years of age attend this event in-person. Families with very young children may wish to register to view the Livestream production instead. We ask that parents and guardians of children in the audience be mindful of their impact on the overall experience for the listeners and performers. If necessary, an usher may ask you to move to the lobby to listen to the concert.
Creating and sharing quality choral music since 1966.
For over 50 years, The Oratorio Society of Virginia has enriched lives and inspired others through quality musical performances and educational opportunities. Our commitment to excellence has resulted in a rich history shaped by our artistic professionals and volunteer singers, who are united by a shared passion for choral music. Our devotion to sharing the joy of music has paved the way for a thriving local arts scene that serves to engage and connect our community through the transformative power of the arts.
Our Story
It all began when a group of inspired individuals decided to join voices and share their passion for music. Over the next 50 years, our organization has grown to be one of the largest and longest-standing group choirs in Virginia. Through the commitment of volunteer singers, we remain dedicated to excellence and ongoing education. We believe music can transform lives and connect the community, and we remain dedicated to continuing that vision today.
“SUPER performance! Best we’ve heard since being in Charlottesville for 10 years…”
— Audience member, Christmas at The Paramount (Dec 2024)
or·a·to·ri·o
ˌôrəˈtôrēˌō,ˌärəˈtôrēˌō/
noun
a large-scale musical work for orchestra and voices, typically a narrative on a religious theme, performed without the use of costumes, scenery, or action. Well-known examples include Bach's Christmas Oratorio, Handel's Messiah, and Haydn's The Creation.
Support for The Oratorio Society of Virginia is generously provided by:
