After a five-year hiatus due to COVID-19, Willamette University’s Chamber Choir is going back on the road.
From March 21–26, students from Willamette’s highly-selective vocal ensemble will travel to Seattle, with stops in Clackamas, Ore., and Vancouver, Tacoma, and Olympia, Wa.
Associate Professor of Music and Director of Chamber Choir Anna Song says that a tour is much more than just a fun trip. Students develop lasting connections with each other and with the music they create together, all while navigating the rigors of traveling with a large group of fellow musicians.
“It’s very much an experiential learning opportunity,” Song says. “It's that chance to continue to strive for artistic excellence, that highest possible place where you know the music so well — and you're able to connect with it on an emotional, spiritual, and intellectual level.”
Along the way, students will also forge connections with Willamette alums, high school music students, and the larger community. Chamber Choir alums will host current students for homestays during the trip. The choir will also stop by local high to perform and host workshops.
“I'm really looking forward to connecting with both past and future Willamette students, and I'm excited to make memories with the current choir as we take on a balance of fun and educational explorations in the Pacific Northwest,” says Chamber Choir president Jaylah Bennett BA’25.
Many alums who were able to go on choir tours in the past look back on them as a highlight of their Willamette experience.
“Choir tours were easily one of the best parts of college for me,” says Nick (Sauvé) King BA’12. “Not only did they build communication and organizational skills, but they led to some memories and experiences that still make me tear up out of happiness almost a decade later.”
Members of the community are welcome to join the Chamber Choir along their tour. All events listed below are free and open to the public.
Thursday, March 21
Concert with Union High School
7 p.m.
6201 NW Friberg-Strunk St
Vancouver, WA 98607
Friday, March 22
Concert at Mason United Methodist Church
7 p.m.
2710 North Madison Street
Tacoma, WA 98407
Saturday, March 23
Concert at Good Shepherd Center
8 p.m.
4649 Sunnyside Ave. N
Seattle, WA 98103
Monday, March 25
Concert at Ingraham High School
7 p.m.
1819 N 13th St.
Seattle, WA 98133
