Bozeman Symphonic Choir
When Conor Whalen took the stage as the new conductor of the Bozeman Symphonic Choir, it marked a fresh chapter for the beloved ensemble. Once a trumpet player, Whalen’s journey to choral conducting has been driven by curiosity, collaboration, and a deep belief in the power of community through music.
Whalen describes his vision simply: great music happens when musicians learn from each other, respect one another, and share a unified purpose. His passion for this kind of artistry shines in his debut program, Night & Light: The Music of Lauridsen & Shaw, taking place November 13–15 at Hope Lutheran Church.
Whalen’s musical path began in high school, when he reluctantly joined choir—and fell in love with singing. After earning a master’s in choral conducting from the Boston Conservatory, he built a national career leading ensembles and founding a community arts nonprofit in Los Angeles that grew from a few members to 80 singers.
Now in Bozeman, Whalen leads a 110-member choir full of energy and pride. He believes that volunteer choirs can reach the same artistic heights as professional groups because their motivation comes from love, not paychecks.
His debut concert reflects that passion. The centerpiece, Morten Lauridsen’s Lux Aeterna, explores light emerging from darkness. The program also includes Lauridsen’s Nocturnes, Franz Biebl’s Ave Maria, and Caroline Shaw’s and the swallow—works rich in emotion and beauty.
“Lauridsen is, without question, one of the greatest American composers of the last 50 years,” Whalen says. “His melodies are incredible—beautiful, lush, and comforting even when they seem complex.”
Looking ahead, Whalen hopes to expand the choir’s reach and repertoire. He envisions a professional chamber ensemble drawn from the Symphonic Choir—around 20 singers capable of tackling intricate a cappella works ranging from Renaissance polyphony to American spirituals and contemporary choral music. He also hopes to collaborate with local institutions to make Bozeman a true hub for the arts.
Experience this exciting new chapter in Bozeman’s musical story. Join the Bozeman Symphonic Choir for Night & Light: The Music of Lauridsen & Shaw, November 13–15 at Hope Lutheran Church.