The artistic director, Jonathan Miller, founded the ensemble in 1993 by performing as a low bass and directing rehearsals for the group's first 14 seasons. One of the founding ensemble members, Matthew Greenberg, joined the administrative staff in 1995 and presently serves as the organization's Executive Director. In 2007, Patrick Sinozich became the ensembles first music director after being appointed by Miller.[5][third-party source needed] In 2008, Miller was awarded the Louis Botto Award for Innovative Action and Entrepreneurial Zeal from Chorus America and was recognized for turning Chicago a cappella into a professional vocal ensemble.[5]
The organization's audiences have actively grown since the ensembles formation and an ensemble of about ten singers typically perform in a wide array of concert programs each year in Chicago, Evanston, Naperville, and Oak Park, IL. The ensemble has performed musical works from their world, national, and local premiere. Chicago a cappella has presented new music from composers such as Joseph Jennings, Chen Yi, Stacy Garrop, Rollo Dilworth, Tania León, and Ezequiel Viñao. Chicago a cappella has performed more than 350 concerts and assembled over 200 performances through its Chicago-based sequence. When touring, the ensemble has performed in 13 different states throughout the United States and Mexico. The group has been played regularly on WFMT radio and through broadcasts spread by American Public Media, including the award-winning radio show Performance Today. The ensemble has made nine CD recordings of music extending from Renaissance masses to modern-day music. Currently,[when?] the organization's administrative offices are located inside of the Athenaeum Theatre in Chicago.[5][third-party source needed]
