Peninsula Womens Chorus

Since 1966, the Peninsula Women’s Chorus (PWC) has become synonymous with artistic excellence in choral music. Known for its adventuresome programming and recognized as one of the leading women’s choruses in the U.S. and beyond, the PWC is dedicated to commissioning new works, discovering rarely performed works, and keeping classical choral masterpieces for treble voices alive. Comprised of a diverse group of auditioned singers who share an enthusiasm for challenging repertoire, the PWC has commissioned 35 new works and released seven CD recordings over the last ten years.

Among PWC honors are: winner of The American Prize in Choral Performance in 2015, and second place winner in 20ll; third prize in the 2006 Béla Bartók 22nd International Choir Competition, in Debrecen, Hungary; two Chorus America/ASCAP Awards for Adventurous Programming (2003 and 1999); finalist in the 2000 Margaret Hillis Award for Choral Excellence; and second prize at the 1994 Tallinn International Choral Competition in Estonia. Other noted performances include three appearances (in 1987, 1993, and 2001) at American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) National Conventions. In addition to extensive performances throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, the chorus has been heard on National Public Radio, and has appeared on television both nationally and internationally.

With its commitment to exciting outreach programs PWC adds to its reputation as a dynamic force in music making and community building. Since 2007, the PWC has produced an annual New Music for Treble Voices (NMFTV) festival, bringing together diverse local and national choruses in the study and performance of innovative, contemporary works. The PWC also offers a Mentorship Program to provide outstanding local high school women singers an opportunity to study and rehearse challenging works, culminating in a performance in the NMFTV festival. Not satisfied with resting on its laurels, the PWC looks forward to celebrating its 50th anniversary season in 2016-17, and to another 50 years of enriching its community with vibrant music.