About Us

HISTORY

2017

In early January 2017, Sherri Jensen sent out the word that auditions were being held for instrumentalists, vocalists, and soloists. Her goal was to form the Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society (The Society) and to prepare, in time for a concert in April, the challenging master choral work “Lamb of God” by Rob Gardner, which is a profound musical portrayal of the Biblical account of the Easter story.

Musicians from Draper and other communities in Salt Lake and Utah Counties came to join the group and became part of a rare musical phenomenon. In just twelve short weeks, Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society was formed, the music was polished, world-class soloists were retained and the venue was prepared. A truly outstanding production of “Lamb of God” was then presented, in three evening performances, to about 1900 people. The comment most often heard afterward was, “I had no idea Draper had something as professional as this!”

Immediately following “Lamb of God,” a gala was held in which a feeling of electric enthusiasm prevailed. Sherri Jensen, as founder and artistic director of the Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society, presented her broad vision of music education and participation.

Then work began to prepare The Society’s second concert, “America the Beautiful.” It was during these concert preparations that Draper City granted the Society $35,000 for the purchase of percussion instruments. Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society was able to gratefully showcase these instruments during this concert, held in the Draper Amphitheater. The stirring videos, narration, and dramatizations accompanying the live performance at this concert prompted many heartfelt thanks from veterans and other attendees.

With the momentum gained from two successful concerts, the Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society finalized plans for a fall concert entitled, “Silver Screen Music.” Held in October 2017, this concert featured movie themes and songs that have become classics in the film industry and which have touched people the world over. These selections included favorites such as Star Wars, Jungle Book, Superman, and Singin’ in the Rain. Video segments, dances, and dramatizations again supplemented the music and provided fun, wholesome, musical entertainment. One father commented afterward that this was the perfect way to introduce his young sons to music performed by a live orchestra.

Another said that he never wanted his family to miss another Society concert.

To finish out its 2017 season, Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society presented a Christmas concert, “King of Kings.” It included beloved Christmas music, narration, and dramatizations which centered on the touching story of the Henry Wadsworth Longfellow family and the true meaning of Christmas. A professional musician in attendance commented afterward, “What a lovely thread linking the songs together with a well-crafted storyline. Thank you for a lovely evening.” Another patron commented, “Very well-organized with a wonderful Christmas message and spirit.” And another said, “I love what you are doing and support it full-heartedly.”

2018

Although many had been dubious about the ability of the Society to survive financially, generous donor, corporate sponsor, and audience support made it possible for The Society to continue to offer its “Lamb of God” concert as a free Easter gift to the community. In March of 2018, “Lamb of God,” featuring most of the same professional-level soloists as in 2017, was presented on two weekends: first at the beautiful First Presbyterian Church in Salt Lake City and then at the Draper Park Middle School.

The enthusiastic responses to this production were very gratifying. They included the following:

“It was magnificent!!! What a masterful performance! Orchestra, choir, and solos were top performers. Congratulations to the conductor for the whole thing. Thank you so much.”

“So very beautiful and inspiring. It moved me to tears.”

“Absolutely stunning! Everything about it brought the Spirit and increased testimony of Christ. Such talent!”

“Impeccable artistry in each voice, solos, choral and orchestral piece! Thank you, Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society! Proud to live in Draper! You represent well!!”

“United We Stand” was the name of our concert presented in June 2018 at the Sandy Amphitheater. It included patriotic favorites and a touching video and musical tribute to the heroes of 9/11. It also featured music, video, and dancers representing different regions of our beloved America.

We next prepared “A Night on Broadway” for our October 2018 concert. We found some amazing soloists that, along with our group, were able to portray so well the excitement and fun of many Broadway songs, as well as the pathos and poignancy of many others. Not only did we enjoy playing and singing the music, but the audience's reaction to the concert confirmed to us that music touches hearts in so many ways.

Our Christmas concert in December 2018, entitled, “Wise Men Still Seek Him,” was a joyful event. We presented many happy favorites of the season along with tender and inspiring numbers. The bells choir, “Bells of Joyful Sound,” was a wonderful addition to many of the numbers, and narration throughout the concert highlighted the spiritual journey of English author C. S. Lewis.

2019

For the third time, in March 2019, we were grateful to be able to present “Lamb of God” as a free gift to the community, and we experienced miracles in doing so. Ushers at Abravanel Hall told us that before our concert night, they had never before seen a totally packed house, with audience members standing in the balcony, about 300 watching on monitors in the lobby, and about 500 turned away. Our previous three performances at Waterford Concert Hall were similarly packed. With an exceptionally talented cast of soloists, choir members, and instrumentalists combining to present this inspired work, it was truly an event never to be forgotten.

Sherri Jensen, our director, had felt an urging for some time to tell the story, through music, of people who played key roles in the establishment and upholding of America. Therefore, the Society commissioned three young and talented composers, led by Jacob Lives, to create the first such work focused on George Washington. The resulting concert, in June and July 2019, combining the talents of soloists, choir, and the orchestra was entitled, “George Washington: Ordained of God” and told the story of Washington’s devoted leadership and the hand of God in obtaining American independence. Final touches were being made and the music was being printed right up to the dress rehearsal night, but even so, it was very well received. A different talented composer is now preparing a work on Abraham Lincoln for us about which we are very excited.

The young composers were then asked to create a new Christmas work, telling the Nativity story with fresh new music and insights. Again, it was an act of faith to have this music, entitled “King of Kings,” ready to be performed in December 2019. Many audience members told of how touched they were by the music and performances.

2020

Early in 2020, our group prepared for our fourth presentation of “Lamb of God.” Our first combined rehearsal in early March with all soloists, choir, and the orchestra was electric. The feeling in our rehearsal space that night was unbelievable. But that was to be our last time all together for the entire year. We hopefully rescheduled the concert for several later dates throughout the year, but things did not open up and it was not to be. The COVID-19 scare shut down all concert venues and large group gatherings.

2021

We performed “Lamb of God” at Abravanel Hall May 10-12 and a revised and improved “George Washington: Ordained of God” June 24-25 also at Abravanel Hall. We produced “King of Kings” at the new Alta Performing Arts Center on December 11th and then offered a free performance of “King of Kings” at Abravanel Hall on Sunday, December 12th.

2022

After being denied the privilege of performing “Lamb of God” on the Wasatch Front, we took a combined production: “King of Kings” together with “Lamb of God” to Logan, Utah’s Ellen Eccles Theatre on March 25-26. The Vivace Youth Orchestra joined us on stage for a side-by-side opportunity. The people of Logan loved what we presented and look forward to our return.

Our production of “George Washington: Ordained of God” was held at Abravanel Hall on June 24-25. This production is gaining notoriety in the among the patriotic in our community.

Another edition of “A Night on Broadway” was produced on October 7-8 at Corner Canyon High School. It boasted 70% new songs from previous years among the favorites people can’t get enough of.