Frequently Asked Questions

When and where does MCE rehearse?

MCE rehearses on Tuesday nights from 7:00-9:30 p.m. Our rehearsal venue is at the First United Method Church of Olympia. Occasionally we will rehearse in other locations, also in Olympia, when we are being joined by an orchestra (usually in preparation for our April performance.) 

There are also two Saturday retreats annually – one in August and one in January – and two Friday rehearsals directly prior to a performance. The retreat is typically 9:30 am – 3:30 pm with a break for lunch.

How many performances are there a year?

Typically, MCE has four one-night performances on Saturdays in October, December, April and June. MCE also hosts the Pacific Northwest Regional Harmony Sweepstakes contest in March – the choir does not perform at this event. 

Where does MCE perform?

MCE is proud to perform at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Olympia. 

What kind of music does MCE perform?

MCE performs a wide variety of music including contemporary choral music, classical masterworks with full orchestra, and arrangements of jazz, folk, and other world styles.  Our June concert is a pops concert featuring arrangements of radio hits from all decades. We frequently perform with local musicians and often collaborate with local performing arts groups, such as the St Martin’s University Choir. Our 100-person chorus includes musicians, students, retirees and working professionals. 

How many ensembles does MCE have?

MCE has two performing ensembles – Masterworks Choral Ensemble and Chamber Choir.

The Chamber Choir is a smaller auditioned ensemble, comprised of 20-24 members from the larger group. The Chamber Choir rehearses on Tuesday evenings from 6-7 pm and performs 3-4 pieces in each MCE concert. They occasionally do additional performances at local venues in December. The Chamber Choir is re-auditioned every year and is open to new members; simply express your interest to the director during the audition if you would like to be considered.

What kind of commitment do I need to make to sing in MCE?

Members of MCE are expected to attend at least 85% of rehearsals. The two rehearsals directly before a performance and the tech run the day of the performance are required and may not be missed without prior approval, at the discretion of the Artistic Director. 

Choir members pay annual dues in the amount of $325 that may be paid in on lump sum or in 2-3 monthly installments. Reductions and scholarships are available if the membership dues limit your ability participate. New members are provided a discounted dues rate for their first season. 

Choir members are expected to purchase their own concert attire and black folder.

Choirs members are expected to put in time outside of rehearsal in order to not fall behind, if they struggle to learn the music within the rehearsal schedule. Learning materials – including part files – are provided to facilitate this learning process.

Each choir member is expected to volunteer for the organization in some capacity and to be an advocate, promoting concerts and encouraging excellent singers to audition.

Choir members are provided a choral handbook with all expectations clearly explained upon admission to the choir.