Dr. Karen R. Hitchcock Award for Championing the Choral Arts

Albany Pro Musica’s annual Dr. Karen R. Hitchcock Award for Championing the Choral Arts recognizes individuals and organizations whose extraordinary leadership, generosity, and dedication have strengthened Albany Pro Musica and enriched the cultural life of the Capital Region.

While recipients have supported Albany Pro Musica in many different ways, they share a common belief in the transformative power of choral music and a commitment to strengthening the arts in our community.

The award honors the legacy of Dr. Karen R. Hitchcock—educator, former President of the University at Albany, devoted arts advocate, longtime Albany Pro Musica singer and Board President, generous philanthropist, and visionary leader. During her years of service to APM, Dr. Hitchcock helped guide the organization through an important period of growth, championing artistic excellence, music education, and community engagement. She also played a pivotal role in recruiting Artistic Director Dr. José Daniel Flores-Caraballo and helping shape the organization’s vision for the future.

Established in 2019, the Hitchcock Award celebrates those who embody Dr. Hitchcock’s spirit of service, philanthropy, and belief in the transformative power of choral music. Recipients have included visionary volunteers, generous patrons, dedicated arts advocates, community leaders, and institutional partners whose leadership and commitment have strengthened Albany Pro Musica and enriched the cultural life of the Capital Region.

The Hitchcock Award is presented annually during Albany Pro Musica’s Gala, an evening celebrating the people whose leadership, generosity, and passion make our artistic and educational mission possible.