On October 17, 2025, representatives of Malik D. Evans, Mayor of the City of Rochester, New York and Adam J. Bello, Monroe County Executive, issued a joint proclamation in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Rochester Oratorio Society. The proclamation recognizes the organization’s eight decades of dedication to artistic excellence, community engagement, and cultural enrichment throughout the region.
Founded in 1945, ROS has inspired generations through exceptional choral performances that celebrate the power of music and community. For eight decades, the organization has been a cornerstone of the region’s arts scene, enriching Rochester and the surrounding counties through its symphonic choir, multicultural programming, educational outreach, and international support for emerging vocal artists.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Eric Townell, ROS continues to innovate while honoring its rich traditions, commissioning new works, premiering music by local composers, and presenting beloved masterworks that reflect Rochester’s diverse musical heritage. The organization remains committed to its mission of “giving voice to the best qualities of our city,” bringing together people of all backgrounds through the shared experience of great music.
Through its five major initiatives: the Symphonic Choir, Resonanz outreach ensemble, K–12 education programs, Arts Connexions concert series, and international vocal competition, ROS has strengthened the cultural and educational fabric of the community.
The proclamation was presented by Monroe County Chief Community Engagement Officer Josie McClary and Deputy Mayor Mike Burns at the season opener concert, “Mass in Blue” at Hochstein Performance Hall. The concert featured the Rochester Oratorio Society symphonic choir and orchestra as well as soprano Sarah Joyce Cooper and pianist Kevin Nitsch. Eric Townell, artistic director, conducted, and Jeff Tyzik, whose composition “Psalm 150” was performed was in attendance.
The Rochester Oratorio Society’s 80th season continues with “Arts Connexions presents Alicia Esmeralda Barry” on November 14, 2025 and “A Joyful Christmas” on December 19, 2025. More information and tickets can be found at www.rossings.org/events.
Scroll to read the proclamation in its entirety:
