About the Longmont Chorale
The Longmont Chorale is a vibrant ensemble of over one hundred singers and proudly holds the distinction of being our city’s oldest choral tradition, with roots dating back to 1937. We welcome singers of all ages, high school and up, and membership is open year-round. As one of the few non-auditioned choral groups in the region, we embrace vocalists of all backgrounds, regardless of experience or skill level.
The Chorale’s supportive environment ensures that every singer has the resources they need to grow, while our commitment to artistic excellence allows us to present high-quality performances of major choral works. We invite you to become part of this longstanding musical community and lend your voice to the tradition.
Mission
The Longmont Chorale provides and supports an open, non-auditioned community choir, enriching the lives of singers and patrons through the study, creation, and performance of beautiful choral music.
History
The Longmont Chorale, one of Colorado’s longest-running arts organizations, traces its roots back to 1937 when a group of friends gathered to perform Handel’s Messiah. Formally organized by founder Albert James, the non-profit group is Longmont’s premier SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) non-audition community choir, welcoming both professional and amateur singers.
Throughout its 89-year history, the chorale has expanded its repertoire far beyond its classical origins. Today, performances span a diverse range of styles, including Broadway hits, jazz, classical masterworks (like Mozart’s Requiem), and traditional folk music.
Operation
The Chorale is led by Artistic Director Nathan Wubbena, and currently puts on four major concerts each season. The Chorale frequently collaborates with local groups like the Longmont Symphony Orchestra for major seasonal and community events.
Artistic Staff
Nathan Wubbena
Artistic Director
Nathan Wubbena received his Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Northern Colorado in 2011, and his Master of Music in Music Education with a Conducting Specialization at Colorado State University in 2018. He has conducted ensembles and taught students of all levels – elementary through adults, on both the Front Range and Western Slope. Nathan has had extensive experience teaching choral, musical theater, and contemporary a cappella genres, and is an accomplished performer in each.
He is also the Artistic Director of the Boulder Children’s Chorale, as well as Board President and Artistic Director of Ascent Vocals. In 2015, he received the Outstanding Young Music Educator Award from the Colorado Music Educators Association, which honors outstanding achievement in an educator with up to 5 years of experience. His experience and recognition have since resulted in him being requested as guest clinician throughout the state of Colorado. He is Chair Emeritus of the Colorado Middle All State Choir board, of which he was a founding board member. Nathan resides in Longmont with his wife, Anna, his son, James, and daughter, Claire. He enjoys cheering for the Broncos and spending time outdoors with his family and dog.
Karlie Carter
Accompanist
Karlie holds a BA in piano performance from Wake Forest University and an MA in music education from George Mason University. With an impressive background in both education and collaborative piano, Karlie has spent 27 years accompanying various choral programs, vocal soloists, and community groups, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the art of accompaniment. Her recent work with Young Voices of Colorado’s international choir festival, Sing a Mile High, has underscored her ability to shine on the international stage.
In addition to her role with the Longmont Chorale, Karlie continues to teach music at Mountain View Elementary in Longmont. Her commitment to education and her collaborative spirit will undoubtedly enrich the musical experience for both the Chorale and the broader Longmont community. Karlie’s enthusiasm for creating beauty through music is infectious, and her presence will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of musicians.
Board of Directors
Sharon Cohen-Lehman, President
Katie Bailey, Vice President
Laura Bonnet, Secretary
Shannon Kim, Treasurer
Nathan Wubbena, Artistic Director
Carly Neumann, Associate Artistic Director
Karlie Carter, Accompanist
Sam Benton, At-Large
Michael Bonnet, At-Large
Chrissy Dappen, At-Large
Susan Feigenheimer, At-Large
Joice Gibson, At-Large
Brook Richardson-Jenkins, At-Large
Ian Tinney, At-Large
Lauren Wubbena, At-Large