Anima Singers has been serving youth for more than 60 years and is under the direction of Artistic Director, Evan Bruno. Anima was founded in 1964 as The Glen Ellyn Theater Chorus by Barbara Born to celebrate and showcase the voices of young local singers. Under the direction of Artistic Director Emerita, Dr. Doreen Rao, the chorus changed its name to Glen Ellyn Children’s Chorus and grew to over 400 singers. During Dr. Rao’s tenure, the chorus was the first children’s chorus to receive funding from the National Endowment for the Arts. The chorus has won four Grammy Awards; has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and the Ravinia Festival; regularly commissions new works of choral music; and has toured to six continents.

As a world renowned children’s choir, Anima’s rich heritage of artistic and educational excellence has been recognized by Chorus America, American Composers Forum, and the National Endowment for the Arts, among other awards. The organization is proud to have bestowed the title of Artistic Director Emerita to Emily Ellsworth who served as Music Director from 1994-2018.

As the options for extra-curricular activities continue to increase, Anima’s programming is evolving to meet a range of personal aspirations and give all young people the opportunity to grow their vocal ability. Anima empowers youth through song and endeavors to get more kids singing, in more ways, and in more places.