Holland Chorale Honors Dr. Patrick Coyle’s Nine Years of Artistic Leadership – Announces Appointment of Dr. Philip Moody as New Artistic Director for 66th Season
HOLLAND, MI — May 21, 2025 — As the Holland Chorale prepares to close its memorable 65th season, the organization honors the extraordinary contributions of Dr. Patrick Coyle, who has served as Artistic Director since 2016. Over the past nine years, Dr. Coyle has elevated the Chorale’s artistic profile, deepened its community engagement, and inspired both singers and audiences with his musical leadership.
“Patrick’s tenure has been transformative for the Chorale,” said Board President, Jenny DeGraves. “His passion for choral music, commitment to excellence and vocal education, and collaborative spirit have left an indelible legacy that will continue to resonate for years to come.”
The Chorale is also thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Philip Moody as its new Artistic Director beginning with the 2025-2026 season—its historic 66th season. Dr. Moody has been a professional conductor and vocalist for over 25 years. In addition to the Holland Chorale, he serves as Artistic Director & Founder of CORO and Assistant Director of two-time GRAMMY®- nominated True Concord Voices & Orchestra. Previously, he was the Co-Director of the MM in Choral Conducting program at Simpson College and Artistic Director of the Des Moines Choral Festival; he has over 20 commercial recordings to his credit.
A passionate educator and celebrated conductor, Dr. Moody brings a wealth of experience from his leadership roles at the University of Houston: Moores School of Music, University of Georgia, University of Arizona, and University of New Mexico. He was the 2011 winner of the prestigious ACDA National Graduate Conducting Competition; his mentors include Helmuth Rilling, Bruce Chamberlain, Anton Armstrong, Richard Bado, Brad Ellingboe, and Franz Krager.
Dr. Moody will join the Holland Chorale this summer for the community’s first-ever SUMMER SING! event, a celebratory weekend of music and collaboration. Dr. Coyle and Dr. Moody will co-conduct a program of choral favorites—literally passing the baton in a joyful showcase of community singing.
All area singers are invited to rehearse on Saturday, June 7, from 10:00 AM–12:30 PM at First Reformed Church (630 State Street, Holland). The concert will take place on Sunday, June 8, at 2:00 PM at the Holland Armory (16 W. 9th Street, Holland), where audiences are welcome to a free, open concert featuring the Holland Chorale and Summer Singers under the leadership of both Drs. Coyle and Moody.
“This event is both a celebration and a homecoming,” DeGraves explains. “We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Coyle for his years of visionary leadership and thrilled to welcome Dr. Moody as he leads us into an exciting new chapter. We hope the community will come and share in the excitement.”
Coming up next….
SUMMER SING!
Holland Chorale is excited to launch our very first SUMMER SING! Outgoing Artistic Director Dr. Patrick Coyle and our brand new Artistic Director Dr. Phil Moody will co-conduct a program of choral favorites. It’s literally a passing of the baton!
All area singers are welcome to join Holland Chorale for a rehearsal session on Saturday, June 7 from 10-12:30 AM at First Reformed Church (630 State Street, Holland). (Current Chorale will begin rehearsal at 9am) then perform together on Sunday, June 8 at 2:00 PM (1-1:30 pm warm-up) at Holland Armory. Please fill out THIS FORM to indicate your participation. If you have any questions please email info@hollandchorale.org
Audiences are welcome to the open and free concert at the Armory. Hear some of the Holland Chorale’s favorite tunes under the direction of Dr. Coyle, followed by a sampling of next season’ repertoire under the direction of our incoming Artistic Director. It’s about an hour of pure musical fun! Hope to see you there!
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