The Virginia Baptist Male Chorale is delighted to announce that Dr. Christopher O. Ryder has been named Director, beginning January 2026.

Dr. Ryder serves as Director of Choral Activities and Professor of Music at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, where he directs the university’s three choral ensembles and teaches conducting. Since 2012, he has also served as Associate Pastor for Music at Fredericksburg Baptist Church, leading a vibrant and comprehensive music ministry.

This transition follows the retirement of Dr. C. Michael Hawn, who has provided five years of dedicated leadership and service, guiding the Chorale’s musical growth and expanding its ministry reach.

Join the Virginia Baptist Male Chorale!

The Chorale now looks forward to an exciting new season under Dr. Ryder’s direction — and we invite you to be a part of it! Membership is open to all experienced choral singers, including professional church musicians (active or retired), members of ministry staffs, and skilled volunteers in local church music ministries.

For enrollment information, please contact Grant Frederick, Chorale President, at gfrederick@bonsackbaptist.org.

Important Dates for 2026

• ‍January 5–6: Season Kickoff Retreat at Eagle Eyrie Conference Center, Lynchburg, VA‍
• May 4–5: Spring Concerts (locations TBA)‍
• October 12–13: Fall Concerts (locations TBA)

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