Joining the Choir
The Medieval Women's Choir is open to women in the Seattle area interested in studying and performing medieval music. Although no formal audition is required, women joining the choir must be able to read music, and are expected to enhance the musical skills they bring to the choir by participating in workshops and classes offered by the director and other coaches. Skills such as sight reading, breath control, sound production, voice blending, and period movement are addressed in twice-yearly workshops and regular coaching sessions.
Rehearsals
The choir rehearses, in two sections, at Bethany Lutheran Church in the Green Lake area. One group rehearses Tuesday evenings, the other Wednesday evenings, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. Weekly rehearsals begin in October and conclude in mid-May; members new to the choir also attend two rehearsals in September. The two rehearsal groups come together for workshops, blocking and dress rehearsals, performances, and various social events.
Performance Commitment
All choir members sing in the December and May concerts. The middle concert may be performed by the entire choir or by a small group of singers. There are also additional and varied performance opportunities for members who wish to participate: at City Hall; at schools, libraries, shelters, nursing homes; at private venues.
Dues
Annual dues are $275, with no participation in ticket sales or fundraising required. Dues cover all costs of music, workshops, and classes, plus a complimentary ticket for each concert. Choir members may also purchase concert admission for family and friends at a reduced price. The choir offers a limited number of scholarships; please contact the Managing Director for information.
Waiting List
The choir maintains a waiting list, from which choir vacancies are filled, first-come, first-served, once a year, during the summer before a new season begins. To add your name to the waiting list, please send the following information to info@medievalwomenschoir.org: your name; mailing address with zip code; home telephone number; e-mail address; a brief description of your musical experiences. If you prefer, you may mail this information to the choir at PO Box 30855 Seattle, WA 98113-0855.