Barry Hemphill, the critically-acclaimed conductor and vocalist who has led The Metropolitan Chorus for 38 years, is retiring from his position as Artistic Director of the chorus following the final concert of the ensemble’s 2014-2015 season.

“Leading The Metropolitan Chorus these past 38 years has been a profoundly enriching and deeply satisfying experience,” Hemphill said in a press release about his retirement. “I am tremendously proud of the impact we have made in the community by performing a diverse repertoire that ranged from Renaissance-era classical pieces to opera choruses to American composers and modern works.”

Under Hemphill, The Metropolitan Chorus has performed in a wide range of venues across the metropolitan Washington, DC. region, as well as overseas. Hemphill has conducted the massively popular annual Messiah Sing at the Kennedy Center since 1994. This yearly event attracts nearly 2500 amateur and professional singers from around the world.

Hemphill will continue his involvement with the chorus as Artistic Director Emeritus and assist with the transition. “While I will no longer be involved with the day-to-day direction of The Metropolitan Chorus, I look forward to watching the talented individuals who make up the chorus continue to perform and grow in the coming years,” he said.