Founded in 2015 by Pr. Salim Daccache s.j., the USJ Choir quickly established itself as one of the finest choirs in the region, bringing together more than seventy singers from diverse backgrounds. Under the direction of Yasmina Sabbah, the choir is celebrated not only for its outstanding level of performance but also for its bold and distinctive artistic vision and repertoire.
The USJ Choir honors the rich legacy of choral music through performances of timeless classical masterpieces while passionately charting new musical territories. Its mission is to blend the old with the new, the East with the West, and the traditional with the contemporary. By exploring rarely performed works and reimagining music in new ways, the choir continually pushes the boundaries of what is creatively possible. Their large repertoire includes Mozart’s “Requiem,” Handel’s “Messiah,” Beethoven’s “Missa Solemnis,” Poulenc’s “Stabat Mater,” Vaughan William’s “Dona Nobis Pacem”, Palmeri’s “Misa Tango,” and Fanshawe’s “African Sanctus” among many others.
The Choir is now recognized for its much anticipated signature concept: The 𝗦𝘆𝗺𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, brilliantly created and brought to life by conductor and artistic director, Yasmina Sabbah. The aim is to redefine choral music by merging the grandeur of the symphonic world with the electrifying energy of modern genres. Through unique arrangements for choir and orchestra, composed by talented Lebanese and international arrangers, the Choir proudly bring these pieces to life with a special twist.
The USJ Choir has performed at prestigious events, including the Legendary Baalbeck International Festival and the opening of the Sursock Museum. Despite the challenging national crisis, the choir remains unwavering in its commitment to keep music alive. Its ultimate goal is to produce unforgettable concerts that showcase Lebanese talent, nurture the Lebanese Performing Arts sector, and actively contribute to the artistic output of the future.