Galesburg Choirs Combine for Rare Duruflé Requiem Performance

Nova Singers and Galesburg Community Chorus unite for a special 175th anniversary concert at First Lutheran Church.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:26pm

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring bold, jagged black silhouettes of choral singers against a high-contrast background of deep red and bright white, conceptually representing the powerful musical performance by Nova Singers and the Galesburg Community Chorus.A rare choral collaboration celebrates the vibrant musical community of Galesburg.Galesburg Today

Two of Galesburg's most renowned choral groups, Nova Singers and the Galesburg Community Chorus, are joining forces for the first time to perform Maurice Duruflé's Requiem on April 25th at First Lutheran Church. The concert brings together 82 voices and a full orchestra for a piece rarely heard in the area, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Nova Singers, the 80th anniversary of the Galesburg Community Chorus, and the 175th anniversary of First Lutheran Church.

Why it matters

This collaboration between the two adult choirs represents a unique musical event for the Galesburg community, combining the talents of the region's top vocal ensembles for a performance of a complex and powerful choral work that is seldom heard live. The concert also celebrates significant milestones for the participating organizations and the historic church venue.

The details

The Duruflé Requiem runs approximately 40 minutes and is less frequently performed than other well-known requiems. Nova Singers will open the program with an a cappella set of audience favorites, including a fast-paced Lithuanian folk song, American folk hymns, and other choral gems. The full concert program is expected to run about 65 minutes.

  • Nova Singers is closing out its 40th anniversary season.
  • The Galesburg Community Chorus is in its 80th anniversary year.
  • Galesburg Community Chorus director Dr. Tim Pahel is marking his 25th year leading the chorus.
  • First Lutheran Church, where the performance takes place, is celebrating its 175th anniversary.

The players

Nova Singers

A respected choral organization in the Galesburg area, celebrating its 40th anniversary season.

Galesburg Community Chorus

An 80-year-old choral group in Galesburg, joining forces with Nova Singers for the first time.

Dr. Laura Lane

The music director of Nova Singers, who suggested the collaboration with the Galesburg Community Chorus.

Dr. Tim Pahel

The director of the Galesburg Community Chorus, marking his 25th year leading the group.

First Lutheran Church

The 175-year-old venue hosting the joint concert by Nova Singers and the Galesburg Community Chorus.

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What they’re saying

“We've done collaborations with college choirs, with lots of different organizations, but never yet until now with the Galesburg Community Chorus. It's kind of cool because we're all adult voices — and it's just a beautiful sound.”

— Dr. Laura Lane, Music Director, Nova Singers

“For the anniversaries of both groups, it's a great reason to combine.”

— Dr. Tim Pahel, Director, Galesburg Community Chorus

What’s next

Tickets for the April 25th concert are available at the door and online at novasingers.com. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the performance begins at 7:30 p.m. A large crowd is expected, so attendees are advised to arrive early.

The takeaway

This unique collaboration between Nova Singers and the Galesburg Community Chorus celebrates the rich choral tradition in the Galesburg community, bringing together the region's top vocal ensembles for a rare performance of Duruflé's Requiem that is sure to be a memorable musical event.