About
Rich Traditions
The Fort Smith Chorale began with 35 dedicated singers and presented its first concert on November 22, 1981, at First Baptist Church. Since then, the Chorale has grown into a vibrant musical community, presenting over 80 concerts and sharing the joy of choral music throughout Fort Smith and beyond.
Our singers, guided by skilled leadership, have performed major works by Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Handel, Britten, Mendelssohn, and Brahms, and the Chorale has produced ten concert recordings.
Beyond traditional Christmas and spring concerts, we’ve collaborated with the Fort Smith Symphony and performed at prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and the American Choral Directors Association Convention, as well as in communities throughout Arkansas.
On average, 70 singers bring each concert to life, combining passion and precision to create performances that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Music & Community
The Fort Smith Chorale is more than just performances — it’s a community of singers from all walks of life. Our members share a love of music, learning, and fellowship, building friendships and connections while contributing to Fort Smith’s cultural life.
Through our concerts, we aim to bring music to the community, inspire audiences, and make choral music accessible to all. Students, families, and longtime music lovers alike are invited to experience the joy and power of live choral performance.
William M. Cromer is the founding director of the Fort Smith Chorale. Named Distinguished Director of the Year by the Arkansas Choral Directors Association in 1988 and 2006, he served as its president from 1988–1990.
Mr. Cromer also received the Civic Center Honors Award from the City of Fort Smith in 1994 for his leadership in music and is an active member of the American Choral Directors Association.
Inspired by his early choral experiences at Pine Bluff High School and First Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, Mr. Cromer earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Music Education from Arkansas State University.
He began teaching at Kimmons Junior High School before becoming Director of Choral Activities at Northside High School, where he taught for 39 years prior to retiring. He is also a past director of the Chancel Choir at First United Methodist Church.
Leadership
Board of Directors
Brandon Bolin, President
Dave Cogswell, Vice-President
Gayle Clutts, Secretary
Jim Fourmy, Treasurer
Chorale Leadership
Bill Cromer, Choral Director
Glenda Weigand, Executive Director
