The Chorus of Dorchester Raises Its Voice Once More in Uplifting Spring Concerts

“You Raise Me Up” Honors Teachers, Parents, and Community Supporters of Student Musicians

The Chorus of Dorchester, Dorchester County’s beloved all-volunteer community choir, is preparing to take the stage once again in two special spring concerts dedicated to the individuals who nurture the musical talents of local youth. Titled “You Raise Me Up,” the program is a heartfelt tribute to the teachers, parents, and community members who encourage Dorchester County’s vocal students.
The concerts will be held on:

• Saturday, May 31 at 6:00 p.m. at Immanuel United Church of Christ, 5401 Whitehall Road, Cambridge, MD
• Sunday, June 1 at 4:00 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 601 Church Street, Cambridge, MD

As always, admission is free, and a love offering will be collected to benefit the choral programs at North Dorchester High School and Cambridge-South Dorchester High School, where many of the chorus members—or their relatives—once sang, and where Chorus Director Virginia “Cookie” Brohawn once taught.



Now in its 50th year, the Chorus of Dorchester continues a rich legacy that began in 1975, when Brohawn founded it to prepare for the United States Bicentennial. What started as a one-time project blossomed into a musical mainstay of the Eastern Shore, with hundreds of concerts under its belt and a membership that spans generations, from age 16 to 92.

Under Brohawn's enduring leadership, the chorus has remained true to its mission: to make music accessible, joyful, and community-centered. The group rehearses at the Dorchester Center for the Arts and operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by the Nathan Foundation. Its members are never charged dues, and no auditions are required—just a love of singing.

Accompanist Laura Todd, organist Barbara Hubbard, narrator Steve Long, and facilitator Betty Malkus join Brohawn in creating a concert experience that blends passion and polish. Audiences can look forward to powerful performances from across the choral spectrum—sacred and secular, including stirring medleys from Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables, and of course, the inspirational anthem “You Raise Me Up.”

In a special highlight, a segment of the NDHS chorus, led by Karen Mercer, will perform “Prayer of the Children,” further tying together the concert’s theme of mentorship, resilience, and hope.
Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a first-time attendee, these concerts promise to be moving musical tributes to the people who shape young voices—and the community that continues to lift them up.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the joy and harmony of Dorchester’s own community chorus—and support the future of local music education.

For more information about the Chorus of Dorchester or how to join, visit the Dorchester Center for the Arts at 321 High Street, Cambridge, MD.