Celebrating 60 Years of The Chantelles

In 2026, we celebrate 60 years of The Chantelles spreading music in joy in the Green Bay area. We have come a long way since our humble beginnings, and we are thrilled to share that history with you. 

The Chantelles were formed in June of 1966. Camille Strong (second from right) served as our first director. By December of that very year, the group already grew to 25 members. This lead to rehearsals being moved to the Green Bay YWCA and thus starting a long standing relationship with that organization. 

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​ From 1966-1970, The Chantelles performed mostly for friends and family.         Sensing an opportunity to share their talents with the community, they   promoted their first community concert in April of 1970, They hosted the   concert at the Green Bay YWCA, and it was well attended and received by the   community. 

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In 1976, Allan Russell (far right picture) took over as the group director. As The Chantelles' popularity grew, so did the demand for additional performances. In addition to a yearly spring concert, holiday themed performances became a group and community favorite. The holiday concerts continue to be a staple of The Chantelles concert lineup to this day. ​