The Alabama Symphony Orchestra Chorus formerly known as the Birmingham Concert Chorale was founded in 1966 as the Birmingham Civic Chorus under the direction of Bruce Tolbert of the University of Montevallo. Since then, the ASO Chorus has been an integral part of the organization, providing powerful performances of the greatest symphonic works. In recent seasons, the ASO Chorus has performed Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, Brahms’ Song of Destiny, Orff’s Carmina Burana, Caleb Burhans’ Psalm 23 (world premiere), Fauré’s Requiem, Bach’s Magnificat and Handel’s Messiah. Currently, the ASO Chorus is led by Dr. Philip Copeland. Past directors include Hugh Thomas, Tom Gibbs, Timothy Banks, David Smith and Mark Ridings.