Welcome to Classical Uprising!

Enlivening, strengthening, and connecting communities by creating immersive classical music experiences for everyone

We believe that classical music enriches lives, inspires souls, and strengthens communities. At the same time, we recognize that traditional concerts may have limited appeal to 21st-century audiences. For some, a traditional concert may feel like an ordeal: put life on hold (kids not welcome), sit quietly in a cathedral-like symphony hall (no chatting, refreshment, or dancing), and observe mysterious rules of etiquette (don’t you dare clap between movements!).

Classical Uprising offers a bold rethinking of the classical music experience through immersive events, performances, and educational programs. Formed in 2020 as a merger between Oratorio Chorale and Portland Bach Experience, Classical Uprising is a 501(c)3 nonprofit committed to community development, creative expression, inclusivity, lifelong learning, and artistic excellence.

We chose the name “Classical Uprising” because we believe that classical music must rise up, challenge current norms, and re-envision where, how, and for whom we are making music. Now, with the fight against systemic racism at the forefront, classical music must fully embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our goal is a holistic approach to classical music that enlivens, strengthens, and connects communities. Join us!

Now in its fifth decade, Oratorio Chorale is a symphonic chorus committed to advancing choral music through performances, collaborations, educational programs, and community outreach. In 2015, the Chorale inaugurated Sweetest in the Gale, a women’s choir, and a Young Artist Program for talented high school singers. Oratorio Chorale presents five programs, 16 concerts a year, between September and May.

Portland Bach Experience tears down barriers and challenges preconceived notions about classical music by offering immersive events, interactive educational programs, and intimate concerts at our annual June festival. Committed to creating programs that are distinct, deep, and connective experiences, PBE brings award-winning artists to Maine to share musical productions that cultivate resilience, nurture individual growth, and feed our collective hunger for connection.

Horizon Voices is a performance-based music education program that strives to develop the next generation of healthy, thoughtful, and creative citizens through choral singing. Designed for young people in grades K-12, Horizon Voices teaches vocal technique and musicianship, nurturing communication and public speaking skills while joyfully making music together.

EMILY ISAACSON
Artistic Director

Named the 2018 Maine Artist of the Year and one of the 50 Mainers Leading the State, Dr. Emily Isaacson is an emerging leader in classical music and arts entrepreneurship. Isaacson’s performances have been heralded as “inventive, enlightening, and moving” (Portland Press Herald) and “virtually flawless...little short of phenomenal” (Maine Classical Beat). eisaacson.com

MARIA BELVA
Director - Sweetest in the Gale & Horizon Voices

Maria Belva is a professional choral conductor and private voice teacher. She has a B.A. in Psychology and Education from the State University of New York at Potsdam and an M.M. in Choral Conducting from the University of Maine. She is a Certified McClosky Voice Technician, and in her voice studio focuses on technique and musicianship.

SCOTT WHEATLEY
Assistant Music Director

Baritone Scott Wheatley is on faculty at the University of Southern Maine and enjoys an active career as a coach and accompanist collaborating with both singers and instrumentalists. Scott holds a B.M. from the University of Missouri/Kansas City and a M.M from the University of South Florida.

If you would like to designate your donation to support a specific program, please do so by including a note at the time you make your gift.

Classical Uprising is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2024-2025 SEASON SPONSORS: