BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bill Baroni, Esq. | Chairman
Judith Rinearson, Esq.
Pamela Anderson
Peter Perlman, Esq.
Sherry Wright
Jasmine Ahmed
William B. Drake, Jr.

DIRECTORS EMERITI

Martin D. Josman | Founder
Barry H. Garfinkel, Esq. | Past Chairman
Edward J. Goldberg | Past Chairman
Dr. Ely Gonick | Past Chairman
Myra Leigh Tobin | Past Chairman

NATIONAL CHORALE STAFF

Amy Siegler | Executive Director
Robert J. Seebacher | Assistant Conductor

EDUCATION PROGRAM

Vagarshak Ohanyan | Principal Conductor
Lynne Abeles | Artist-in-Residence
Samara Bowden | Artist-in-Residence
Elisabeth Stevens | Artist-in-Residence

myra tobin legacy

National Chorale Dedicates 58th Annual Handel’s Messiah Sing-In to Myra Leigh Tobin

The National Chorale’s 58th Annual Handel’s Messiah Sing-In at Lincoln Center is being dedicated in honor of Myra Leigh Tobin, beloved Board Member Emerita (deceased) and longtime supporter of the Chorale. This special dedication is made possible through the generosity of Jonell Tobin and the Tobin family, continuing Myra’s enduring legacy of philanthropy and commitment to the arts.

Who Was Myra Leigh Tobin?

A native of Harned, Kentucky, Myra earned her bachelor’s degree in Home Economics from the University of Kentucky in 1962, a master’s in Counseling Psychology from Ohio State University, and an MBA from New York University.

She built an extraordinary career as a leader in professional and community organizations in New York while remaining deeply connected to her Kentucky roots through her family farm in Breckinridge County.

Leadership and Philanthropy

Myra’s influence extended across multiple institutions:

• UK HealthCare — funded the Myra Leigh Tobin Chapel at the University of Kentucky Hospital.

• University of Kentucky — former Alumni Association President and Board of Trustees member.

• Kentuckians of New York — served as President.

• New York Women’s Foundation — founding board member.

• First Presbyterian Church of NYC — led fundraising efforts exceeding $2 million for restoration.
  

A Legacy at the National Chorale

For more than 30 years, Myra served on the National Chorale Board of Directors, including as Chair. She was instrumental in advancing the Chorale’s performance and music education programs, connecting the organization with patrons who shared her love for the arts.

She mentored students, attended performances, and believed deeply in quality education and lifelong learning. Myra’s enthusiasm for mentoring and music inspired countless young artists in New York City.

Honoring Her Memory

The National Chorale expresses profound gratitude for Myra’s dedication, leadership, and generosity. Her legacy contribution continues to sustain the Chorale’s mission of excellence in music education and performance.

This year’s Messiah Sing-In celebrates not only Handel’s timeless masterpiece but also Myra Leigh Tobin’s remarkable life and legacy.

NATIONAL CHORALE MAJOR SUPPORT

NATIONAL CHORALE BENEFACTORS

THE JANEY FUND | JUDITH RINEARSON | NICK LEWIS