Our History

All American Country June 2007

In January of 1976, fourteen area residents met for the first time to begin rehearsals for a musical variety show to raise money for a local charity. In June of that year they presented their first program, “A Musical Picnic”...and a tradition was born! That small group of people, the original cast of Choral Dynamics of Galesburg, has expanded to include hundreds of individuals who have dedicated themselves to Choral Dynamics’ simple philosophy: using music to help people.

With a passion for music and a willingness to give of their time, the members of Choral Dynamics have carried on the tradition started over 33 years ago. Through the years, dozens of community organizations have benefited from a partnership with Choral Dynamcis. Using a unique approach based on program advertising sales for our biannual shows, we have been honored to present checks totaling over $400,000.00 to area charities.

In the process of helping the community, Choral Dynamics has presented 69 memorable programs to the delight of our audiences. The show titles reflect a broad range of themes used in producing a show, covering everything from Christmas to Broadway to patriotic music. A production includes incredible choral music along with solo performances, dancing and even a little comedy. We are proud to have featured some of our area’s best talent. The audience is never disappointed!

In December of 1988, Choral Dynamics moved our venue from Knox College’s Harbach Theater to the beautifully renovated Orpheum Theatre. We have continued to present two shows each year in this historic theater. In June of 2009, we were pleased to celebrate our director, Terry Ruehmer, as he directed his 50th show for Choral Dynamics.

As we recognize our long and productive past, we anticipate the future with hope that our mission to help our community through song will continue for many years.