The St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church Choir was organized in late 1930 when two socio-musical groups – “Svemir” and “Fruska Gora” – united and renamed themselves the St. Elijah Church Choir of Aliquippa, PA. The merger attracted about sixty enthusiastic and spirited Serbian singers, dedicated to their ethnic tradition, culture and Orthodox Church music.

Early directors included Nikola Bizich, Professor Kordin, and Professor E. Bloz. Father Antonoff, a local Russian priest, assumed the duties in the mid-thirties and then Michael Holovac directed the choir during which time the Choir was inducted into the Serbian Singing Federation (SSF) on September 12, 1937. John Holovac succeeded his brother Mike and served until the unforgettable Professor Boris Dobrovoljsky arrived in 1938. He brought with him a rich and extensive musical background of Serbian choral music along with introducing the choir to composers, principally Stevan Mokranjac. Under “Dobby” the choir enjoyed prominence and success at the SSF Festivals along with the concerts that were competitive in that era. In 1948 the Choir performed in joint concert with Metropolitan soprano, Danica Ilich. After 25 memorable years, Dobby retired in 1963. The choir’s next director was Milan Vuchich, who served a short time after which Slobodan Zelich came on board in the early seventies and brought with him many unique arrangements and interpretations. Veda Y. Milanovich followed him and led the choir for 6 years. Under her direction the choir hosted the SSF Festival in 1978. Stella Wallace Dobrovoljsky, Dobby’s wife next came to the aid of the choir. During her direction we observed our 50th (Golden) Anniversary in 1980. Dr. Albert Hazeem followed and helped the choir host yet another SSF Festival in 1987. Father Vladimir Soroka of Ambridge succeeded Dr. Hazeem and introduced the choir to many new liturgical compositions. Presently Marian Izak with her highly professional technical skills instructs the choir each and every Wednesday rehearsal and to her we are so grateful.

Many skilled choir members have given willingly of their free time to direct the choir for church services, weddings, parastos and pomens and special recognition goes to +Natalie M Rebich, who taught us to always be proud of who we are, love our Serbian music and always represent ourselves to the very best of our ability in concert and during liturgy. Loving recognition also goes to past directors +Lela Mamula, Joyce Yovetich, Donna August and Kathy Chesla. Currently we are fortunate to have Kathy Loverich, and Andy Muha rotating directing duties in the choir loft, each and every Sunday with Kathy directing all stage performances as well. Over the decades the St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church Choir has always had a devoted group of singers that is 30+ strong for both Sunday liturgy and holidays to provide responses and inspiration to the congregation.

We have been blessed for the last thirty-five years to have the constant and selfless leadership of Very Reverend Fr. Stevan Stepanov as St. Elijah’s spiritual advisor and mentor. Father Stepanov’s devotion to the choir is unlimited and he has given selflessly to the church and choir during his tenure. His rich bass voice has inspired us during services and assisted us greatly during performances. Along with his wife our beloved Protonica Ana and his family he has provided support and knowledge to the choir and to him we owe our gratitude and love.

Over the years we have lost many dear choir members and in honor of them we say “Vjecnaja Pamjat” (Memory Eternal). To the young and talented high school and college students in our choir, we give this challenge: "Keep St. Elijah strong and committed for the next 71 years and beyond." Ziveli!