PBS was originally called The Robert Coller Singers

Founded in Belfast in 1973 by Robert Coller, and originally known as the Robert Coller Chorale, the Penobscot Bay Singers have been performing throughout the midcoast area for half a century, bringing fine choral music to many communities.

Members gather weekly from the Waldo and Knox counties area throughout the season to rehearse in preparation for winter, and spring concerts. The singers also appear at social and civic functions, providing an opportunity for listeners to enjoy a variety of choral musical styles.

Past performances have included Brams’ Ein deutche Requiem, Duruflé’s  Requiem, Handel’s Messiah, Vivaldi’s Gloria, Mozart’s  Solemn Vespers, John  Rutter’s Requiem and other classical masterpieces. Suring the winter season the singers perform traditional Christmas and midwinter holiday music. For several seasons they have hosted a  Messiah singalong with other area chorales, and performed the the New England premiere of little tree in 1998 by Minnesota composer Steve Heitzeg. In 1999 they also produced a premiere midcoast presentation of A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, and and in 2007 repeated for the fourth year Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols.

The singers are directed by Kimberly Murphy. All members audition for membership, although no formal musical training is required.