ABOUT

Described by San Francisco Classical Voice as “breathtaking,” Aeternum is a new professional vocal ensemble in California, co-founded in 2024 by Artistic Director Bailey Cooke and Executive Director Brady Egbert.

Aeternum grew out of Bailey and Brady’s longtime friendship and shared love of choral music, which began when they met in high school choir. Years later, that same love for singing together became the foundation for an ensemble built around care, trust, and a belief in the power of voices coming together.

Today, Aeternum brings together outstanding singers to perform music that is honest, moving, and carefully crafted. The ensemble’s programs reach across centuries of vocal music, from early works to pieces by living composers, with each concert shaped around storytelling, connection, and emotional depth.

The name Aeternum comes from the Latin word for “eternal,” reflecting the group’s belief that choral music has a lasting place in our lives. Aeternum is interested not only in preserving the beauty of this art form, but also in helping it grow—making space for new voices, new audiences, and new ways of experiencing vocal music.

Education is central to that vision. Aeternum cares deeply about making high-level choral music more accessible, especially for students who may not otherwise have those opportunities. A core part of the ensemble’s work is partnering with public schools, particularly underfunded schools, to support young singers, encourage music educators, and help students experience the joy and discipline of ensemble singing.

Through concerts, school partnerships, and community work, Aeternum hopes to create meaningful musical experiences that stay with people long after the final note. At its heart, Aeternum is about bringing people together—singers, students, teachers, and audiences—and helping build a stronger future for choral music in California.