By Eric Dundon
The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is proud to include two resident choruses in its family of ensembles, a unique feature among American orchestra. One of those choruses—the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus—celebrates and preserves music from the African diaspora, uplifting Black musical voices of the past and present. Collaborating with the SLSO several times per season, the IN UNISON Chorus has developed its own musical profile, leaving a distinctive stamp of the cultural landscape of the St. Louis region and touching many lives with its remarkable artistry.
Kwamina Walker-Williams has been an alto in the chorus since its formation in 1994. She’s performed in front of thousands of people in Powell Hall, at the Stifel Theatre, and throughout the community. She looks forward to the completion of the Powell Hall expansion and renovation project, which will provide dedicated rehearsal space to the SLSO’s choruses in a new Education and Learning Center, creating a more intimate rehearsal atmosphere and reducing the stress on the Emerson Concert Stage.
“A dedicated rehearsal space inside Powell Hall will give singers the space they need to hone their craft, create wonderful musical memories, and strengthen the social fabric of St. Louis,” she said.
The choruses provide an artistic outlet for community members to realize their love of music at all stages of life. The expansion and renovation of Powell Hall supports the SLSO’s mission to bring music lovers of all backgrounds together.
“The IN UNISON Chorus is like a second family to me. The music we create bonds us and uplifts our spirits,” she said. “Being part of this family is a treasured part of my life.”
Eric Dundon is the SLSO's Public Relations Director.