History of the Seaway Chorale and Orchestra

This non-profit organization was founded in 1976 by David M. Ward, music director, with the assistance of the Kiwanis Club of Trenton. Mr. Ward served as music director and perpetuating influence until his death in 1994.

Primary objectives have always been to present quality entertainment for the Downriver community while providing performance opportunity for talented musicians. Vocalists are selected through auditions. Hired instrumentalists are assembled by an orchestra manager. The group has also included a children’s and teens choir in the past. Several members of those groups now sing in the adult chorale.

In addition to the December and May concerts of each season, outreach activity has included sacred choral masterpiece concerts in metropolitan Detroit churches; performing for the Republican National Convention in Detroit; appearances at the Festival of Trees at Cobo Hall and Downriver Sings in Allen Park; singing the Canadian and American national anthems at Tiger Stadium and Comerica Park; taking part in the dedication of the 33rd District Court; offering condolence through music during the Hospice Remembrance Services at Southland Mall; traveling to Trenton, Ontario to performing international patriotic ceremonies, appearing on CBS, Channel 62’s holiday special and at Fox Theatre’s Christmas show. The Chorale has appeared with Southern Great Lakes Symphony Orchestra, and participated in Downriver Remembers, a tribute to the 9/11 victims, at Memorial Park in September 2002. Seaway ensembles have sung for Red Cross and Kiwanis gatherings.

On September 22, 2000, Seaway Chorale and Orchestra, and, posthumously, its founder, David Ward, were honored to receive the Downriver Council for the Arts’ Salute to Excellence award.

In 1995, Charles Heard assumed the position of director and carried the organization through six years of successful performances. He retired following the gala 25th anniversary concert in spring of 2001. Local musician Aaron Kaleniecki guided the group until Spring 2007.

In 2004, the Chorale moved its concerts to Flat Rock High School, where we have enjoyed sharing the stage with our orchestra.

Now in the autumn of 2007, the baton is passed to Mr. Mike Begian. We are excited to have Mike at the helm and we invite you to join us as we open this new chapter in the Chorale’s storied history.