The Blackhawk Chorus is a distinguished and long-established community ensemble dedicated to bringing high-quality choral music to the heart of civic life. Founded in 1991, the chorus has grown from a small group of twelve women seeking voice lessons into a dynamic, 100-voice SATB choir with a diverse membership from across the Bay Area.

Under the visionary leadership of its founding director, soprano coloratura Diane Gilfether, the Blackhawk Chorus flourished, building its reputation for excellence. After her retirement in 2021, Ken Abrams, a seasoned choral educator with over 30 years of experience, assumed the role of artistic director. Abrams has upheld the chorus’s high standards while introducing innovative repertoire and new artistic challenges.

The Blackhawk Chorus presents two main performance seasons each year. In the spring, the ensemble offers an eclectic program that draws from a wide variety of genres, including classical, folk, contemporary pop, gospel, patriotic, musical theater, and jazz standards from the “Great American Songbook.” In the fall, the chorus presents a series of holiday concerts—beloved by the community and filled with festive and expressive music ranging from timeless Christmas carols to whimsical and contemporary holiday tunes.

Beyond local performances, the Blackhawk Chorus has represented the Tri-Valley in national and international tours, performing in major U.S. cities such as Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C., as well as in Europe.

The singers, who come from a range of backgrounds, are united by their passion for music and a commitment to ensuring future generations share that opportunity. Through its Music Education Fund, the chorus raises money to support vocal music programs in local schools, donating nearly $200,000 to date.

With its dedication to musical excellence and community outreach, the Blackhawk Chorus remains a vital and vibrant part of the Bay Area’s cultural landscape.