Johnstown
Symphony Chorus

Under the dynamic direction of Jeffrey L. Webb, the Johnstown Symphony Chorus continues to uplift and inspire audiences with its powerful performances. Comprising over 100 talented vocalists from the community, the chorus embodies the spirit of collaboration and musical excellence. Our talented vocalists bring musical charm and spirit to various events, including the annual Light-Up Night in Downtown Johnstown and significant appearances at veterans and Memorial Day ceremonies. Experience the passion and precision that make each concert an unforgettable journey through the world of choral music.

Audition Information for Spring 2025 - Tenor and Bass

The JSO Chorus is currently taking auditions for Tenors and Basses. Interested parties should fill out the audition form and contact director Jeff Webb via email to schedule an appointment time: jwebb@johnstownsymphony.org

The audition process is very simple and usually takes roughly ten minutes to complete. The audition consists of the following elements:

  • Singers will have their vocal range tested by singing exercises up and down the scale.

  • Singers will be asked to sing one verse of the melody to either Amazing Grace or My Country 'Tis of Thee. You may download the sheet music by clicking on its title.

  • Singers will have their tonal memory tested by hearing short musical phrases and being asked to sing them back to the director.

  • Singers will be asked to sight-read a short piece of music. Reading music is not a pre-requisite to gaining entrance to the JSO Chorus, but it is useful for the director to know the singers reading/following abilities.

Meet Our Chorus Director, Jeffrey Webb

Jeffrey L. Webb was appointed conductor of the Johnstown Symphony Chorus in 2018. 

During that time, Mr. Webb prepared the chorus for performances of Handel’s Messiah, Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 (Resurrection) and William Grant Still’s Plain Chant for America. Since 2001, Mr. Webb has been Professor of Music/Director of Choral Activities and head of the music department at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. 

At the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, Mr. Webb has taught courses in Music Theory, Western Art Music, Critical Listening, Jazz and Popular Music, and conducts the Pitt-Johnstown Choral Ensembles. In addition to his work at Pitt-Johnstown, Mr. Webb served as the Artistic Director of the Blair Concert Chorale from 2004-2013. Under his baton, the Blair Concert Chorale performed such works as Faure’s Requiem, Vivaldi’s Gloria, and Schubert’s Mass in G. During his time at the helm of the group, the Blair Concert Chorale was also invited to perform at the 2006 Pennsylvania Music Educators Summer Conference. 

Mr. Webb has also done extensive work in musical theatre, having starred in, musical directed and served as accompanist for a variety of shows such as Sweeney Todd, Chess, Ain’t Misbehavin, Little Shop of Horrors, Once on This Island and Godspell. Active as a guest conductor and vocal clinician, Mr. Webb has worked with singers and conducted festival choirs in Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut and New Zealand. His research on vocal health in the choral rehearsal has been published in Music Educators Journal and presented for both the Pennsylvania and Virginia Music Educators Associations. In 2016, his research and creation of new editions for William Grant Still’s Three Rhythmic Spirituals led to publications in The Choral Journal and with William Grant Still Music. 

Mr. Webb holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in music from Allegheny College and a Master of Music degree in choral conducting from Binghamton University. Mr. Webb is also active as a vocal soloist, accompanist and musical director while acting as the front man for the band Jeff Webb and the Delectable Sound. Mr. Webb will make his Carnegie Hall conducting debut in June, conducting a performance of Vivaldi’s Magnificat

Upcoming Events

Developing choral excellence since 1958.

More than 100 local vocalists rehearse weekly and perform the great works of the choral repertoire with the professional orchestra each year. Dedicated to musical excellence, the Johnstown Symphony Chorus is also a friendly and fun environment in which to learn and grow. This group prioritizes community service by sponsoring a family for Thanksgiving each year, raising money to provide scholarships for Inclined to Sing choristers, performing at residential facilities, and adding musical charm and spirit to events such as the annual Light-Up Night in Downtown Johnstown. The chorus makes regular appearances at veterans and Memorial Day events.