The Choir originally was organized as a non-credit class offered by the University of Michigan's Extension Service. In addition to the U of M Extension Service, Rackham has enjoyed the sponsorship of Eastern Michigan University and Wayne State University. In 1981, when financial problems forced universities to withdraw their support, the choir became an independent nonprofit organization.

In 1952, Rackham became the official choir of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, an association that lasted twenty-six years. Rackham performed at the opening of Ford Auditorium in 1956, singing Paul Paray's Mass under the composer's direction, and later recorded the work for Mercury Records. Rackham has also performed with many distinguished conductors, including Thomas Schippers, Gunther Schuller, Antal Dorati, and Neemi Järvi. The chorus has also contributed support to many major Michigan Opera Theatre productions, having performed in the historic opening Gala concert at the Detroit Opera House and, most recently, Verdi's Aida, Puccini's Turandot, and Wagner's Die Fliegender Holländer.

Under our critically acclaimed conductor Suzanne Mallare Acton, the chorus has expanded its rich tradition of musical performance. Recent innovative concerts that have enlightened audiences of all ages included Einhorn's Voices of Light with choir, soloists, orchestra, and featuring the 1927 film classic Jeanne d'Arc at the State Theatre and Fanshawe's African Sanctus with children's choir and African drums. RSC has also collaborated with the Detroit Chamber Winds and Strings and the Eisenhower Ballet in producing Orff's Carmina Burana at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts. Our signature work is our new production of Too Hot To Handel, a jazz-gospel rendition of the Messiah, with soloists, jazz and symphonic orchestra, performed annually at the Detroit Opera House.

The Rackham Symphony Choir is supported by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and the City of Detroit Cultural Affairs Department. Rackham is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and supports itself with the dues of its members, grants, performance fees, donations from individuals, corporations, and private foundations, program advertisements, and concert ticket sales. Rackham maintains an ongoing commitment to outreach programs and charity benefits.

Rackham Symphony Choir's mission is to bring to the community the power and energy of exciting orchestra-accompanied choral works through quality concert performance. We strive to show artistic leadership by presenting innovative music of diverse cultures, styles and periods. Musical talent and contribution to the community is promoted through our music presentations, educational outreach programs, and community benefit concerts.