Chicago, August 25, 2026
The 33rd Annual Russian Orthodox Musicians’ Conference will be held from Sept. 30-Oct. 4 at Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral in Des Plaines, Illinois. The theme of this year’s conference is “Achieving the Ideal Orthodox Choral Sound.”
Lectures, workshops, and rehearsals at this year’s conference will explore the cultivation of the ideal choral sound, with special focus on pitch, vocal quality, and the balance of voices. In addition, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the repose of Alexander Kastalsky, whose legacy in Russian Orthodox church music will be explored.
Special attention will also be given to the development of church singing in English-language parishes and missions.
Speakers at the 2026 conference include Archpriest Andre Papkov, Aleksandr Andreev, Katya Ermolaeva, Mathieu Malinine, Timothy Morrow, Olga Saad Karam, Kurt Sander, and Marie Sokolova. More information on the speakers is available here.
Conference events will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Rosemont, culminating in hierarchical divine services at the beautiful Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral.
Lodging is included in the registration fee. All lectures, rehearsals and meals are also included and will be at the hotel starting with Thursday breakfast until Saturday afternoon. Wednesday evening will feature a welcome reception with light refreshments during registration. Dinner on Saturday after Vigil and the final banquet on Sunday after Liturgy will be in the church hall.
Registration is only open until Tuesday, September 1. Those interested can register here.
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