REMEMBERING OUR FOUNDER, MARTIN JOSMAN

Martin Josman, founder of the National Chorale, was one of America’s leading vocal conductors and a distinguished champion of choral and orchestral music. A native New Yorker, his career spanned decades of artistic excellence, visionary leadership, and dedication to the advancement of American choral performance.

Artistic Leadership and Legacy

Mr. Josman conducted at Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall—formerly known as Philharmonic Hall and later Avery Fisher Hall—as well as at Carnegie Hall and many of the nation’s most prestigious venues. His artistry reached audiences across the United States in performances at:

  • Boston’s Symphony Hall

  • Philadelphia’s Academy of Music

  • Seattle Opera House

  • Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis

  • Powell Hall, St. Louis

  • Symphony Halls in Tulsa and Phoenix

  • Eastman Theatre, Rochester

  • Saratoga Festival Amphitheatre

  • Chautauqua Amphitheatre

Since 1965, Mr. Josman conducted the National Chorale’s annual “Messiah Sing-In” at Lincoln Center, a beloved New York City holiday tradition that continues to this day.

Television and Broadcast Contributions

Mr. Josman’s work reached national audiences through television and public broadcasting.
He was selected by ABC Television as Music Director for the network’s 90-minute musical tribute to President John F. Kennedy.

He also served as Music Director and Conductor of the acclaimed PBS–Channel 13 special “Bach and His Sons: The Overwhelming Legacy,” a 90-minute documentary and concert broadcast more than 350 times by 125 public television stations across the United States.

Repertoire and Advocacy

Renowned for his mastery of the choral–orchestral repertoire, Mr. Josman conducted performances of classical and contemporary works spanning opera, operetta, oratorio, and American musical theatre. Under his direction, the National Chorale’s Festival of American Music Theatre at Avery Fisher Hall and Carnegie Hall celebrated the richness of American composition.

A passionate advocate for new American music, Mr. Josman conducted numerous world premieres and commissions for the National Chorale. He also introduced American audiences to rediscovered Baroque, Classical, and Romantic works, presenting U.S. premieres that expanded the national repertoire.

Service and Recognition

In addition to his artistic achievements, Mr. Josman contributed to arts advocacy at the national level, serving as a member of the Choral Panel for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). His influence extended beyond performance, shaping cultural policy and supporting the growth of choral institutions nationwide.

Legacy

Martin Josman’s profound impact on American choral music endures through the National Chorale, the countless singers he inspired, and the audiences who experienced his visionary performances. His artistry, mentorship, and pioneering spirit remain a guiding force for the organization he founded.

He is deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.