The Emmaus Chorale celebrates its 30th year with a concert titled "A Celebration of Song" 3 p.m. June 2 at Faith Presbyterian Church, North Second and Cherokee streets, Emmaus. The Chorale, joined by organ, piano and brass, will sing a variety of selections including "Cantus" by John Rutter; "In Ecclesiis" by Giovanni Gabrieli; a medley from "West Side Story" and a choral showcase of "Fiddler on The Roof."

Admission is free.

The Emmaus Chorale was founded in September of 1983 by F. Allen Artz to provide musically inclined residents of the Emmaus-East Penn area with an opportunity to sing both classical and light choral music.

Many of the original members were recruited from local church choirs by Artz, who inspired them with his enthusiasm and energy about choral music. Ann Pickin, an original member, remembered Artz as "an excellent director and a perfectionist."

The chorale gave its first performance in December 1983. At that time, both rehearsals and concerts were held at St. John's Lutheran Church, Emmaus.

Originally the chorale had 29 members, but grew to as many as 54 over the years. Currently there are 25 to 30 members who perform two concerts a year– at Christmas and in the spring. In addition, the chorale participates in the Emmaus Flag Day event and gives special concerts at other locations in the area. The Emmaus Chorale participated in the Emmaus Anniversary Celebration finale in 2009.

After nine years at St. John's Church, the chorale moved to the Lutheran Church of The Holy Spirit on South Cedar Crest Boulevard for its spring concert in 1991. That location remained the primary facility used for both rehearsals and concerts until 2011 when the chorale moved to Faith Presbyterian Church in Emmaus. In the beginning, the chorale was part of what was the Emmaus Arts Commission, which provided annual support. That commission no longer exists, and today the chorale remains financially viable through member dues and the support of patrons and local businesses. Some of the original members continue to sing with the group.

Over the course of 30 years, many talented and qualified directors have led the Emmaus Chorale.

They are: F. Allen Artz (1983 to 1985), Douglas Keilitz (1986 to 1987), Philip Compton (1987 to 1990), Jane Battaglieri (1990 to 1992), Susan Frickert (1993 to 1996) and Mark Suter 1996 to present.

Suter began his career as a church musician at age 16. Following graduation from Allen High School, he attended Temple University, completing music degrees in organ performance and choral conducting. Suter has directed the music programs of churches in the Lehigh Valley and Lancaster and is currently serving at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and Salem Lutheran Church in Bethlehem. He also maintains a teaching schedule of piano and organ students.

It was the vision of the founder, F. Allen Artz and remains the goal of the Emmaus Chorale today to culturally enrich the people of Emmaus and neighboring communities with their "song."