The Lucy Kinchen Chorale was organized in 2001by Musical and Artistic Director, Ms. Lucy Kinchen. The Chorale's mission is to preserve and perform the Negro Spiritual in the Bay Area and beyond. In addition to the Negro Spiritual, the Chorale’s repertoire includes madrigals, classical, sacred, jazz, and pop.  Most selections are sung a cappella with as many as eight parts. Other selections are accompanied on piano by Ms Kinchen.  The pieces are often arranged by Ms. Lucy Kinchen to include flute, violin or other instrumental solos.

The Lucy Kinchen Chorale's membership draws from the very diverse Bay Area community. Ranging in age and generation, our members represent many cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Chorale members are equally diverse in musical experience; from professional musicians to amateur performers. Our members have sung in choirs through their faith communities, schools, theater, or communities-at-large. All share the wonder of choral singing and enjoy learning and performing the Chorale’s eclectic repertoire.

The Lucy Kinchen Chorale made its first formal and professional appearance on February 22, 2002 as part of the East Bay-Oakland Symphony’s “Break Bread Together” concert.  Starting with this signal event, the Lucy Kinchen Chorale has shared its dedication to renewing awareness and appreciation of an original American art form, the Negro Spiritual.

Ms. Lucy Kinchen, Musical and Artistic Director, is an accomplished musician, vocalist and educator. Currently, she is professor of music and immediate past Co-chair of the Music Department at Laney Community College in Oakland, California.