About Salisbury Singers
Our Mission
Founded in 1973, Salisbury Singers is committed to enriching the cultural life of Central Massachusetts through exceptional performances of choral music from diverse periods and traditions. We strive to inspire, educate, and connect with our audiences through the transformative power of choral music.
Our ensemble comprises dedicated singers from all walks of life who share a passion for choral music. Through our performances, outreach programs, and educational initiatives, we aim to foster a deep appreciation for the choral arts and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of our community.
Our History
Salisbury Singers was founded in 1973 by Malama Robbins Collinsworth, an accomplished musician and music educator who dedicated her life to enriching the cultural landscape of Worcester. Named after the Salisbury Cultural District in Worcester, the chorus quickly established itself as a significant cultural institution in Central Massachusetts.
Over the decades, Salisbury Singers has performed at numerous venues throughout the region, including Mechanics Hall, Worcester's historic Tuckerman Hall, and various churches and community spaces. The chorus has collaborated with other musical organizations, commissioned new works, and brought a diverse repertoire of choral music to the community.
Throughout our history, we have been led by distinguished artistic directors who have shaped our musical identity and helped us grow as an ensemble. Today, Salisbury Singers continues to build on its rich legacy while exploring new artistic directions and reaching new audiences.
Our Leadership
Reagan Paras
Music Director
Reagan Paras is a passionate conductor, singer, and educator who conducts performance tours across the United States and abroad. He also serves as the Artistic Director for Many Voices: Mechanics Hall's Youth Singers and conducts the Kodály Music Institute Chorus.
Christine Sawicki
Board President
Christine Sawicki serves as the President of the Board of Directors for Salisbury Singers. With her dedicated leadership and passion for choral music, she guides the organization's strategic direction and community engagement initiatives.
Kristjon Imperio
Collaborative Pianist
Boston-born Kristjon Imperio is an active organ recitalist and collaborative pianist, most recently serving on the faculty of Handel and Haydn Society in Boston. An artist with extensive range, Kristjon has performed major piano/keyboard concertos with orchestras throughout the United States.
Brad Dumont
Artistic Director Emeritus
Brad Dumont is an arts advocate focused on cultural improvement and community-based arts education. He believes deeply in the power of choral singing to build empathetic communities.
Michelle Graveline
Artistic Director Emerita
Michelle Graveline retired after over two decades of leading Salisbury Singers. She is a former Professor of Music at Assumption College, where she founded the Assumption College Chorale in 1984.
Our Founder
Malama Robbins Collinsworth (1925-1997)
Malama Robbins Collinsworth was an accomplished musician and music educator who made substantial contributions to the cultural life of Worcester. In addition to founding the Salisbury Singers in 1973, she established the Salisbury Lyric Opera Company, the Worcester Children's Chorus, and co-founded the Salisbury Chamber Orchestra and Lincoln Arts Festival.
As an Associate Professor of Music at Anna Maria College, she founded the Anna Maria College Chorus. She also served as an Affiliate Associate Professor of Music at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where she established the WPI Women's Chorale. She was the first female choral director of the Worcester County Music Association.
To honor her legacy, Salisbury Singers created the "Salisbury Sustainer Award" in 2009. The Even and Malama Collinsworth Advised Fund continues to support cultural and educational programs, reflecting her lifelong commitment to music education and community arts.
Interested in Singing With Us?
Salisbury Singers welcomes new members to join our community of vocalists. Visit our Join Us page for rehearsal information and details on how to become a member.
Learn More About Joining