The Knoxville Choral Society (KCS) is prepared for its 2025–2026 concert season. This will be an exciting series of performances that also marks a major milestone in the organization's history: its 75th anniversary.

Since its founding in 1951, the Knoxville Choral Society has been a cornerstone of the East Tennessee arts community. Now entering its 75th season, KCS will honor its rich legacy and bright future with a powerful lineup of performances, ranging from masterworks of the classical repertoire to festive holiday traditions and a celebratory finale worthy of this historic year.

“This season is a tribute to the singers, conductors, audiences, and supporters who have helped shape the Knoxville Choral Society over the past seven and a half decades,” said Dr. John R. Orr. “We’re honored to celebrate our 75th anniversary by sharing music that connects, uplifts, and inspires.”

2025–2026 Season Highlights

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra

Thursday, September 18, 2025 – 7:30 PM
Friday, September 19, 2025 – 7:30 PM
Tennessee Theatre

KCS opens the season by joining the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra on Beethoven’s monumental Ninth Symphony, featuring the iconic “Ode to Joy.”

KCS Cathedral Concert

Thursday, October 30, 2025 – 7:30 PM
Sacred Heart Cathedral

An evening of classic sacred choral music in a sacred setting presented by the Knoxville Choral Society.

Handel’s Messiah with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra

Sunday, November 30, 2025 – 2:30 PM
Tennessee Theatre

A beloved East Tennessee holiday tradition returns in this powerful performance of Handel’s sacred oratorio.

Clayton Holiday Concerts with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra

Friday, December 19, 2025 – 7:30 PM
Saturday, December 20, 2025 – 3:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Sunday, December 21, 2025 – 3:00 PM
Knoxville Civic Auditorium

Ring in the holidays with this joyful, family-friendly celebration.

Young Artists Winter Concert

Friday, February 20, 2026 – 7:30 PM
Central Bearden Church

This special program features KCS’s annual scholarship recipients alongside choirs from South Doyle High School.

75th Anniversary Celebration Concerts

Friday, April 24, 2026 – 7:30 PM
Central Bearden Church

Saturday, April 25, 2026 – 3:00 PM
Community Church at Tellico Village

These culminating concerts will honor the history and future of KCS with a new commissioned work by Assistant Director and Accompanist Andrew Duncan, along with favorite works from past seasons.

For 75 years, the Knoxville Choral Society has brought exceptional choral music to East Tennessee audiences. Composed of over 100 auditioned adult singers, the ensemble performs a wide variety of repertoire and collaborates regularly with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. KCS is committed to artistic excellence, education, and fostering a vibrant community of music lovers.

For more information about the season or to purchase tickets, please visit www.knoxvillechoralsociety.org.