50 Years of Song and Service
By - The Forgottonia Times™ Report
1978 Galesburg Choral Dynamics Group. Photo courtesy of Jean Shumard.
For 50 years, Choral Dynamics has been a steady presence of joy in Galesburg, bringing people together through music while raising funds for local causes. That tradition continues this spring as the group returns to the stage at the Orpheum Theatre for its upcoming production, “Raising Spirits with Song,” scheduled for May 29th–31st.
The Galesburg chapter was founded in 1976, part of a larger idea that began in 1969 when founder Gerry Traxler set out to build choral groups focused on raising money for local charities. That idea made its way to Galesburg when two members relocated to the area and were encouraged to start a group of their own. In January of that year, 14 local residents came together to organize what would become a lasting part of the community.
Fifty years later, the group is preparing for a milestone production, “Raising Spirits with Song,” set for May 29th and 30th at 7 p.m., and May 31st at 2 p.m. at the Orpheum Theatre. The show takes audiences on a trip back in time, drawing on historical moments and figures connected to Galesburg.
This year’s theme leans into a vaudeville-style format, taking audiences back through time. The production highlights different pieces of Galesburg’s past—from the days of trolleys and trains to the people and moments that helped shape the city. Along the way, the show touches on everything from inventors and entertainers to war heroes and public figures, ending with a patriotic element in recognition of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
While the performances have always been a draw, the group’s purpose has remained consistent. Since its founding, Choral Dynamics has provided the opportunity for local charities to raise a total of more than $675,000 for various causes and organizations. The group has staged nearly 95 shows over the years, only stepping back during rare interruptions like severe weather or the COVID-19 pandemic.
2024 production of "Rolling in the Deep". Photo courtesy of Rick Cross
Even during those slower periods, the work didn’t stop. Members stayed active with online fundraisers and local drives, collecting items like diapers, clothing, blankets, and toys for families and organizations in need.
This spring, the show's ad sales will benefit the Children’s Grief Camp of Galesburg, a nonprofit that supports children who have experienced the loss of a loved one. Through its programs, the organization provides a space for kids to process grief and connect with others going through similar experiences.
Choral Dynamics has built its fundraising model in a way that helps maximize that impact. Performing two shows a year, a beneficiary is selected for each and is involved in selling program ads, allowing them to raise funds directly and receive the greatest amount of proceeds, as opposed to just ticket sales.
As the group heads into its 50th anniversary show, the milestone feels less like a finish line and more like a continuation of what’s been built over time. What started with a small group of residents has turned into a steady presence in the community—one that has found a way to combine performance with purpose year after year.
Following the performance on Sunday, May 31st, members will gather at Lake Storey for an anniversary celebration, bringing together past and present participants to mark the occasion.
After five decades, Choral Dynamics is still doing what it set out to do—bringing people together and giving back to the community in the process… true to their motto “Helping Our Community Through Song.