The tradition of having a municipal chorus in San Francisco goes back almost 100 years to 1925, when the San Francisco Board of Supervisors enacted an ordinance that authorized the creation of a city chorus dedicated to performing “the great oratorios and choral masterpieces.” In keeping with that uniquely San Francisco tradition, the San Francisco City Chorus (SFCC), originally known as the San Francisco Recreation Chorus, was established in Spring 1979 by Adrian Horn as an activity of the Music Division of the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department (SFDRP). The SFDRP provided financial support with stipends for the Director and Accompanist and use of public school space for the weekly rehearsals.  The Recreation Chorus averaged 50 singers and performed three free concerts each year.  Adrian Horn provided both musical and administrative direction until he left the position in 1984. In 1989, the name was changed to San Francisco City Chorus (SFCC), and in 1996, the group became an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, no longer receiving city funding. Since then, SFCC has supported itself entirely through performances, dues, and contributions.  

Upon Adrian Horn's departure, the Chorus' first elected Executive Committee (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer) was charged with finding a new director.  Led by a search committee, the entire Chorus selected Frederick Goff in September 1984. Under Fred Goff's direction, the Chorus improved the quality of its performances, increased its visibility in San Francisco, and developed a more professional approach to concert rehearsals and performances.

When Fred Goff decided to leave the chorus in 1997, SFCC asked Larry Marietta to become its new Artistic Director.  Under Larry's leadership, its reputation for musical variety and artistry has reached exciting new heights, and concert audiences continue to grow.  Currently, two formal concerts are presented each season.

In addition to its regular concert season, SFCC has regularly brought the sounds of the holidays to audiences throughout the Bay Area between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  In typical years, chorus members can be seen caroling in large and small groups throughout San Francisco and Berkeley. 

Our Sing-Along Messiah in December features the opportunity to enjoy this most popular of pieces accompanied by a diverse, local orchestra of adults and high school students.  You can even sing the solos! In December 2020, we enjoyed an online version of our Sing-Along Messiah with over 100 participants from across the US and as far away as Canada and Mexico.