The Heritage Ensemble held its inaugural concert on August 19, 1999, at Dingledine Music Center on the campus of Bradley University.  A core group of performers who had performed together for more than ten years was called upon to become the pivotal community in the Opera Illinois production of Porgy & Bess.  In preparation for this production, we performed "A Concert of Spirituals".  This production required that we research our rich heritage and develop a deeper appreciation for the rich body of literature that we celebrate as Americans.  This venture marked the beginning of a choral ensemble that is sure to withstand the test of time.  Our mission statement serves as a constant reminder of the important work that lies ahead of this ensemble.  To that end, The Heritage Ensemble continues to tear down walls and build bridges as we collaborate with other art organizations and perform throughout the community.  Most recently, our collaborations have included, but are not limited to A Special Performance at Carnegie Hall, a weekend of "bridge building" activities with the four United Methodist Churches of Paris, Texas, a benefit concert for First United Methodist Church of Peoria for the rebuilding of a hospital in Ganta, Liberia, a collaborative concert for the Hurricane Relieve Fund at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Peoria, and a special performance for the Caterpillar African American Network Holiday Celebration.  We have also performed special tributes to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and Duke Ellington.  We are committed to making a difference in this community and beyond.  To this end, we have added to our family The Youth Heritage Ensemble of Peoria that serves youth in grades 7 thru 12.  They perform on each of the subscrption series concerts, as well as performances on their own.  Thank you for your continued prayers and support of our mission.

tearing down walls and building bridges