Local choir performs in Sweden with renowned composer

Seasons Chorale, part of SoJo Choral Arts, recently returned from a prestigious 10-day music residency in Sweden, where they had the honor of performing under the baton of world-renowned British composer Sir John Rutter.

“It was a life-changing experience to sing under the direction of such a musical icon in some of the most beautiful and historic venues in Scandinavia,” Executive Director of SoJo Choral Arts McKell Scanlan said.

The tour, organized by Mid-America Productions International, included two major performances: the first at the historic Kungsholm Church in Stockholm on July 8, and the second at the stunning Uppsala Cathedral (Domkyrka) on July 11. Chorale members, joined by other vocalists from the U.S. and Sweden, performed sacred works including Requiems by Rutter and Fauré, accompanied by the Stockholm Concert Orchestra.

“I was swept away by the beauty of Stockholm, and being able to deepen friendships within our choral organization while working with and befriending other like-minded people from across the U.S. and Sweden was a truly incomparable experience,”  Choir Manager Michelle Hill said.

Now back home, Seasons Chorale is preparing for its beloved “Sounds of the Season” concert this December, a benefit event supporting local causes. Rehearsals begin Thursday nights in September, and the choir currently has openings for new singers.

Practices:

Rehearsals begin Thursday, Sept. 11, at 6:30 p.m. at a church located at 1540 W. 10400 South in South Jordan. The group will practice on Thursdays until the performances and on most Saturdays in November.

Website:

For more information and to register for the upcoming season, please visit the link below:

SoJo Choral Arts Website

Our Story

SoJo Choral Arts is a nonprofit organization, founded in 2016 to support volunteer music groups in the South Valley area of Salt Lake County. Two of these groups—Deci’Belles (est. 2002) and Seasons Chorale (est. 2005)—were begun by local, legendary music director Marlene Stanley. These groups have become cherished traditions in the area over the past two decades. Marlene retired in 2023, and with the addition of Artistic Director Ben Chapman and Assistant Artistic Director Patty Anderson, we look forward to a bright future.

Building Community

SoJo Choral Arts brings together musicians who share a passion for building community and uplifting those in need through the joy of music. With over 250 dedicated volunteers, we offer enriching experiences through rehearsals, workshops, performances and service projects, making SoJo Choral Arts a cultural cornerstone in the area.

We come together not just to make music but to connect and grow with our “music family.” Along the way, we ask ourselves, "How can we bless those around us?" By partnering with local family shelters, Make-A-Wish, and other worthy causes, we strive to make a meaningful difference. We do this not because we have to, but because we get to—and that makes all the difference.

The Healing Power of Music

SoJo Choral Arts was founded on the belief that music is more than just an art form—it is a source of healing and resilience. This understanding is deeply personal to Scanlan, who turned to music as a therapeutic outlet after losing the use of a vocal cord due to cancer surgery. Her experience shapes our commitment to providing a space where others can find healing, growth and connection through music.

Together, we create an environment where every rehearsal, workshop and performance offers not only artistic fulfillment but also the chance to restore and uplift. Our partnerships with local shelters, Make-A-Wish, and other causes extend this healing power beyond our choir, reaching those in need. That spirit of giving is at the heart of everything we do.