After nearly four decades shaping and inspiring the Fairfax Choral Society (FCS) to be at the forefront of Washington area choruses, artistic director Doug Mears will be retiring this fall. One of the largest choral groups in the region, the FCS provides classes and opportunities to perform for more than 300 choral singers from preschool through adult.

“His talent, passion and creative programming have inspired and educated our singers,” said long-time FCS member and Board Chair Barbara Tuset. “During his tenure he also provided the chorus with extraordinary experiences with guest composers and conductors. Each performance left us hungry for the next challenge. Doug will be missed by all of us at FCS.”

When asked what kept him so committed to the FCS, Mears said, “The opportunity to collaborate with talented, hard-working, dedicated, and inspiring singers; and with great composers from throughout music history, to present masterworks of choral music for our community and the world.”

Mears noted that “Choral singing continues to be the most popular form of participation in the performing arts.” He cited national data that nearly 25 percent of American households have at least one choral singer; around 42.6 million choral singers, both adult and children.

“The FCS artistic staff can certainly attest to the value of choral singing for young people, as we have seen its impact on our own singers, ever since the FCS Youth Choruses began,” added Mears.

While Mears noted many memorable musical achievements, “perhaps most memorable have been the opportunities we have shared, offering our music for special and significant occasions in our members lives; weddings, funerals, retirements. And, of course, to see children who began their musical training in the FCS Youth Choruses develop into outstanding musicians and continue their musical aspirations professionally and as members of our volunteer adult Symphonic Chorus.”

Mears went on to say, “Tragically, funding for the arts in our region has been on a downward spiral in recent years. We believe that music is not a luxury but a necessity.”

Concert pianist, composer and conductor Paul Leavitt has been named Interim Director, Fairfax Choral Society. Leavitt begins his tenure after a celebratory concert for Doug Mears at National Presbyterian Church, Washington, D.C. on Nov. 12, 2017.

Under Leavitt’s leadership, the Fairfax Choral Society’s mission will continue as it has for the past 56 years; to enrich lives through the performance, education, and appreciation of choral art.