History

 

The Dr. Laza Kostich Choir Serbian Singing Society was organized in the year 1936.  The choir assumed the name of the great Serbian poet and composer – Dr. Laza Kostic.  A meeting was held on February 9, 1936 at the Serbian National Home in Midland, and plans were completed with the first officers being elected.  They included:  President – John Gypalo, Vice President – Walter Dragelevich, Secretary-Daisy Sobat, Treasurer – George Vukelich, Publicity Manager – Ann Meriage and Honorary Advisor – Dorothy Vranes.

​

Mrs. Vranes merits special comment when history is being recorded.  As the founder and organizer of the choir, her untiring efforts, love and devotion were unparalleled.  The Serbian community is eternally indebted to her foresight and continued loyalty during her lifetime.  Her interest and inspiration were exemplified with each of her five sons becoming members of the Dr. Laza Kostich Choir at various times of their lives.

​

The journeys of the Dr. Laza Kostich Choir have taken us all over the United States and Canada.  Countless concerts, broadcasts and television appearances have become part of our repertoire, as have singing in our home community. 

​

These combined experiences have resulted in a record which included both religious and secular music.  During the past years, the choir has contributed much to the religious and cultural life of our Serbian community.  This is a result of many hours of hard work.  Through the international language of music, the choir introduced the best that is in us to the American people.

​

The choir is a source of inspiration of love toward everything that is Serbian and traditional.  In its vast activities, the choir has brought to the fore, many artistic achievements in Serbian Orthodox church music and folk music.  The choir was, and is, a most valuable treasure of Serbian heritage through which more than 300 Serbian young people of the St. George Community have passed