ENSEMBLES 2024

Philadelphia Girls Choir

A highly selective music education program for girls ages 6 and older, the Philadelphia Girls Choir is designed to instill confidence and responsibility through musical achievement. The choir takes a holistic approach to choral music that relates musicianship and performance to the broader human experience. Cultural diversity and personal development are essential elements of Philadelphia Girls Choir training. Founded in 2012 and now in its 11th Season under the direction of Artistic Director Nathan Wadley and Associate Director Laura Harmon, the Philadelphia Girls Choir began with 18 singers and has grown to include nearly 200 youth divided into four ensembles – Motif, Etude, Cantata, and Concerto. Beginning with the basics of music theory and performance, singers progress over the years to learn more about vocal technique through challenging repertoire. The 2024 Touring Choir is comprised of a highly selective group of singers ages 12-18, who also sing in our Cantata or Concerto ensembles.

Nathan Wadley

Conductor

Nathan Wadley began his choral training at the age of eleven when he became a chorister with The American Boychoir, under the direction of Dr. James Litton, and he returned 15 years later to become the Resident Training Choir Director of The American Boychoir School, where he trained the newest choirboys in performance skills and musicianship. He has taught for over 20 years in both public and private school settings, and currently is on the faculty of Friends Select School in Philadelphia. Mr. Wadley earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree and Masters Degree in Choral Conducting from Missouri State University, and was awarded a graduate assistantship under noted conductor Dr. Guy B. Webb. He is a certified Kodály music educator, studying at both New York University and Capitol University in Columbus, Ohio.

Laura Harmon

Conductor

Laura Harmon is an accomplished conductor whose passion for music and dedication to fostering children's musical growth have defined her career. With over two decades of experience as an educator and choral conductor, Laura's commitment to excellence shines through her students. Throughout her journey, Laura has led choirs and taught general music to students from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Her students have participated in esteemed honors choirs across New Jersey and prestigious ensembles such as the All-South Jersey Choir, All-State Choir, and OAKE National Choir. Ms. Harmon has also conducted the All-South Jersey Elementary Choir, the NJMEA Middle School Treble Choir, and the PMEA Elementary Songfest. In addition to her work in the classroom, she has conducted choirs internationally in Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, France, and Spain, enriching her teaching with diverse cultural perspectives and experiences. Laura holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ, and Level IV Kodály training from The Organization of American Kodály Educators (OAKE). With her professionalism, expertise, and unwavering dedication, Laura Harmon continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of countless children, nurturing their musical abilities and preparing them for success in the world of music.

Competition Program

Additional Concerts Program