The South Lake Tablet
A new voice is rising in Lake County—actually, many voices. Nathaniel “Chad” McClellan, a seasoned music director and nonprofit leader, has officially launched Lake Community Arts, a new organization dedicated to enriching the local arts scene, starting with its flagship program: the Lake Community Choir.
The choir’s debut rehearsal is set for Tuesday, August 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Clermont Performing Arts Center, with weekly rehearsals leading up to a festive winter concert in December.
“I’ve truly felt like Lake County needs a community choir and arts organization for about 15 years now,” said McClellan. “I can name five large community choirs in the Orlando area alone, but nothing out here. I finally decided I was going to put it together.”
With help from local nonprofit and arts professionals, McClellan formed a dedicated board and began building what he hopes will become a cornerstone of the local cultural community.
The Lake Community Choir is open to everyone—no auditions or previous experience required. “We want this to truly be a community choir,” McClellan emphasized. “All are welcome to join us.”
Participants can expect an enthusiastic start on August 19, with music distribution, an overview of the choir’s mission, warm-ups, and the beginning of preparations for the winter concert.
McClellan brings a wealth of experience to the endeavor as Founder & Director, Lake Community Arts; Director, A Gift for Music, Choir Director, Kings Ridge Singers; Choir Director, Legacy Chorale; Choir Director, First Presbyterian Church of Leesburg; Vice President, Encore Performing Arts; Immediate Past Board President, Orlando Choral Society.
“Without my experience with the Orlando Choral Society, Lake Community Arts wouldn’t exist,” he shared. “That role gave me insight into how to grow a choir and a nonprofit arts program from the ground up.”
His role with A Gift for Music has been equally formative. “I’ve spent the last seven years involved in fundraising, grant writing, community-building, and growing a nonprofit arts program year after year. I’m looking forward to doing the same here in Lake County.”
When asked about the deeper meaning behind his work, McClellan recalled his own roots in music. “Dating back to my student choir days at West Orange High School—whether singing in the community, in D.C., or even Carnegie Hall—there’s something about music that brings people together. It’s the greatest team sport there is.” That spirit of unity is already resonating. “The local response has been overwhelming,” McClellan said. “People are SO excited—and so are we!”
Lake Community Arts is currently preparing for its first major performance: a holiday concert this December. The show will feature a mix of Christmas, Hanukkah, and seasonal favorites—along with a crowd-pleasing holiday sing-along. “We want this to become an annual tradition in Lake County,” McClellan said.
Beyond joining the choir, community members can support Lake Community Arts by volunteering for roles in social media, PR, or board service, or by making a financial contribution. “As a brand new nonprofit, we’re always in need of sponsors and donors,” McClellan said. “Facility rentals, sheet music, musicians, insurance—it all adds up. Every bit of support helps us fulfill our mission: nurturing creativity and connection through accessible and inclusive performing arts programs for all.”
Contact lakecommunityarts@gmail.com to learn more. Register online or in person at Clermont Arts and Recreation Center, 3700 S. Hwy 27, Clermont or call 352-394-3500.
