The Heritage Signature Chorale

06/25/2026

African American music is more than a genre—it's a living record of resilience, creativity, faith, joy, and perseverance.

From spirituals and gospel to jazz, blues, classical works, and contemporary choral music, these traditions have shaped not only American music, but our nation's history and culture.

At Heritage Signature Chorale, we're proud to honor and preserve the rich legacy of African American composers and storytellers by bringing their music to audiences throughout the Washington, DC region and beyond.

🎶 What piece of African American music has stayed with you throughout your life?

06/24/2026

Celebrate over 25 years of powerful music with Heritage Signature Chorale! Join our mailing list for exclusive updates, upcoming performances, and inspiring music resources: eepurl.com/dzeOV1

06/24/2026

: On Saturday, June 18, 2022, we were joined by so many of our friends - both old and new - at our 22nd Anniversary Concert: My Spirit Sings! The program included amazing concert arrangements of Negro Spirituals, by prominent African American and Non-Traditional composers, in the magnificent Sanctuary of the National City Christian Church.

06/23/2026

On June 21st we celebrated World Music Day.

We’re grateful to be part of an art form that crosses generations, cultures, and communities.

Every rehearsal. Every performance. Every voice. The music lives on because we keep singing.

🎵✨

06/22/2026

Proof that musical treasures are still waiting to be found.

A newly found notebook documenting the composer’s lessons with a student includes seven previously unknown compositions.

06/17/2026

Every organization has an origin story.

For the Heritage Signature Chorale, it began with a vision.

When Stanley J. Thurston looked across the choral landscape in the Washington, DC region, he noticed that the works of Black composers were too often missing from concert stages. He believed these voices, stories, and musical traditions deserved to be heard, celebrated, and preserved. That belief became Heritage Signature Chorale.

More than 25 years later, we continue to honor that vision by uplifting the rich legacy of African American choral music and ensuring these powerful works remain a vibrant part of our cultural landscape.

06/15/2026

The beauty of music!

06/12/2026

: June is African American Music Appreciation Month! Created by President Jimmy Carter in 1979, this month celebrates the African American musical influences that comprise an essential part of our nation’s treasured cultural heritage.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture celebrates Black Music Month.

06/11/2026

Join the CAAPA - Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts for Jazz at Epiphany: A Juneteenth Celebration, an inspiring afternoon of music honoring the rich legacy of Black artistry and cultural expression.

Tuesday, June 16, 2026
12:10 PM 1:10 PM

Join the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts (CAAPA) for Jazz at Epiphany: A Juneteenth Celebration , an inspiring afternoon of music honoring the rich legacy of Black artistry and cultural expression.