Shir Joy Chorus of Massachusetts is dedicated to learning, sharing and performing Jewish music. Founded in 2011, we are an Independent nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization. We are over 20 members strong, representing a dozen Massachusetts towns and cities. The chorus is non-auditioned and is open to all people regardless of ethnicity or religious background. If you are interested in learning and performing music from the rich and varied Judaic cultures of Israel and the Jewish Diaspora, we’re interested in you. Shir Joy envisions a musical organization dedicated to raising awareness and appreciation of the breadth and beauty of Jewish culture through performances and related activities.
Who are we? Our chorus members are a diverse group. We’re young and not so young. We’re working and retired, professionals and non-professionals. Some of have both religious and secular backgrounds, while others have had little or no Jewish education. Our musical backgrounds are varied too. Some of our members have extensive musical knowledge, others have no previous choral experience. What we have in common is our love of Jewish music and interest in building strong bonds of friendship as we hone our musical skills.
Shir Joy Events
Upcoming Concerts:
Winter Concert: Sunday, February 2, 2025, 7:00 pm @ Congregation B’nai Shalom, 117 East Main Street, Westborough, MA
Spring Concert: Sunday, June 15, 2025, 7:00 pm @ Congregation B’nai Shalom, 117 East Main Street, Westborough, MA
No Audition Required
You must be able to sing on pitch, but all are welcome to join regardless of musical background.
All members must have a vocal placement test, which takes less than 2 minutes, in order for the music director to ascertain which section of the chorus is most appropriate based on vocal range and sound.
Meet Our Director
Shir Joy’s director, Nan AK Gibbons is also the collaborative artistic director of the Band of Voices Community Chorus in Barre, Worcester Bedside Singers, and Wiogora School of Wonder and Wisdom, a Harry Potter Themed educational community in Worcester, MA. Additionally, Ms Gibbons teaches at the Joy of Music Program in Worcester and Nashoba Montessori School in Lancaster. An accomplished composer, arranger and choral artist, she taught in the New York Metropolitan Opera Guild’s Urban Voices Choral Initiative for twelve years.