Looking for a choral program that celebrates memorable music across the decades? This is the one for you. Ernest Johnson leads the ensemble in arrangements of the hits you know and love. Songs may include favorites from the stage and screen (such as "Defying Gravity" from Wicked), classic standards from the American Songbook (examples include "It Had to Be You" and "When You’re Smilin'"), and legendary hits by pop artists. Some of the selections will be from the 1960s, in celebration of the 60th anniversary of Smithsonian Associates, including selections from Aretha Franklin, Simon & Garfunkel, Curtis Mayfield, and The Beach Boys. (The final song list and musical arrangements are chosen to fit the specific vocal and musical abilities of the group.) 

No audition is required. However, it is important that participants be able to sing on pitch; have a basic understanding of musical notation; able to follow a choral score as music is rehearsed; and practice their vocal part by listening to rehearsal links that are provided. Singers receive general instruction in vocal techniques that include exercises in healthy breath management for singing and improving your singing tone and range.

Weekly voice part sectionals available from 6 to 6:30 p.m. some (but not all) weeks. Rehearsals culminate in a free performance on November 20 for invited guests. Reservations are required.

Johnson is a choral conductor and music educator who has worked with singers and musicians of all ages for more than 45 years. He was director of choirs at West Potomac High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, for 25 years, where he was twice honored as Teacher of the Year. His past positions as choral director also include the Maryland Choral Society, the Fairfax Chorale, and the Heritage Presbyterian and Aldersgate United Methodist Church Chancel Choirs in Alexandria. He was an adjunct professor at George Mason University, and is currently active as a guest conductor, teacher, and clinician throughout the area.

11 rehearsals plus performance

General Information

• Weekly rehearsals run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. ET on September 4 to November 13, 2025.
• The final performance on November 20 starts at 7:30 p.m. ET
• Registration for this program will end by 2 p.m. ET on Thursday, September 4, 2025.
• Refer to our health and safety information for in-person programs.