Press Release May 19, 2008

Submitted by Terry Burkle
June 15, 2009

Coastal Chorale to take year-long Sabbatical

FOLEY, AL- “The Board of Directors for the Coastal Chorale have voted to take a year-long sabbatical and regroup,” stated David Horton, acting Chairman for the Chorale. “To our fans and supporters of the Chorale, this means no Summer Show or Christmas Show in 2009 and no Snowbird Serenade in February 2010. The Board is active and busy making plans for the future. We are honestly trying to come up with innovative ideas to keep the Chorale moving forward,” Horton continued.

"The Chorale is working to begin a new show in August 2010. Check the website on occasion for updates at www.coastalchorale.com." Horton said “The board would like to thank our sponsors and chorale patrons for all of their support. We look forward to seeing you soon.”

Founder and Conductor Don Dowling formed the Coastal Chorale in the spring of 2001 with thirty-two members. Accompanied by Kayla Dowling, the Chorale held its premiere performance the first weekend of August 2001, playing to three enthusiastic, sold-out crowds. The Chorale electrified the 700 audience members with familiar favorites, which has become the trademark of this talented group of musicians.

The group originally intended to perform just that one summer show, but due to the tremendous response from Baldwin County communities, the membership enthusiastically and unanimously voted to become a bona fide musical organization. Today, the numbers reflect the tremendous growth in the organization, with approximately sixty singers, the group performs to nearly 6,000 audience members annually.

The Coastal Chorale concept was formed with two main goals in mind. The first is to provide talented vocalists with a musical challenge as they join with other singers of like ability. Giving life to this goal, the Chorale consists of skilled musicians who desire the excitement of group achievement. The second goal is to excite audiences through the great sounds of familiar songs from the past and present. Three ideals correlate with these goals: to perform the finest in choral literature of all styles, to perform at the highest possible level of excellence, and to produce a thrilling show of top-notch entertainment value for residents of Baldwin County and beyond.

A tradition of excellence was established and will continue. Fans and supporters of the Coastal Chorale can stay informed by visiting their website at www.coastalchorale.com.