In the 1980s, the concept of a choir dedicated to performing oratorio pieces was virtually unheard of. However, Stephen Tong, a passionate lover of classical music—particularly oratorio—founded a choir with the vision of educating Christian churches in Indonesia about the masterpieces of great composers.
Established in 1986, Stephen gathered amateur singers and personally trained them through weekly rehearsals. Under his direction, the uplifting melodies of Handel's Messiah, the remarkable works of Mendelssohn, and the intricate compositions of Bach's St. Matthew Passion came to life. Singers learned both technique and phrasing through meticulous study, while also being taught the spirit of the age—Zeitgeist.
Over its 38 years of performances, the Jakarta Oratorio Society (JOS) has toured Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, New Zealand, Australia, and numerous cities across Indonesia. Since 2009, JOS has served as the choir-in-residence at Aula Simfonia Jakarta, where they have regularly showcase Handel’s Messiah, Stravinsky’s Symphony of Psalms, Bernstein’s The Chichester Psalms, Verdi’s Requiem, Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem, Bach’s Mass in B Minor, and Mozart’s Requiem alongside Jakarta Simfonia Orchestra, the orchestra-in-residence of Aula Simfonia Jakarta.
Despite being composed of amateur musicians, the singers of the Jakarta Oratorio Society (JOS) are exceptionally well-trained, undergoing a rigorous training regimen designed to equip them with the skills necessary to meet the demands of their diverse repertoire. Their training includes weekly rehearsals, vocal technique knowledge, and performance practice, allowing them to master complex pieces from various musical eras. This dedication to excellence ensures that they can deliver high-quality performances that resonate with audiences, showcasing their commitment to the art of choral music.
In celebration of ASJ’s 15th anniversary, the Jakarta Oratorio Society (JOS) showcased an impressive series of performances featuring seven major oratorios across five concerts. This remarkable event highlighted a diverse repertoire, including Bach’s Magnificat, Vivaldi’s Gloria, Haydn’s The Creation, Mendelssohn’s Elijah, Handel’s Messiah, Haydn’s The Seasons, and Mendelssohn’s Lobgesang (Symphony No. 2). These performances not only commemorated a significant milestone for ASJ but also showcased the exceptional talent and dedication of JOS, bringing together audiences to experience the beauty and richness of choral music.
