About the Choir
The Medieval Women's Choir recreates and presents medieval music through performance, education, and outreach. It is one of few choirs in the United States to specialize in this repertoire. The choir's programs spring from the research and musical gifts of Artistic Director Margriet Tindemans, a life-long scholar of medieval music and a performing artist of international reputation. They increase understanding and appreciation, in performers and listeners alike, of this less familiar but very beautiful body of music, spanning 400 years, in many languages and from many traditions. The choir's first CD, River of Red, featured the music of Hildegard of Bingen. Laude Novella, its second recording, is released as part of the choir's 20th Anniversary Season (2009-2010).
Membership
The Medieval Women's Choir is open to ALL women in the Seattle area interested in studying and performing medieval music. The choir is a warm and welcoming group, which treasures the opportunity to sing this remarkable music in a friendly and supportive environment. Current members range in age from 25 to 76; almost half the members have sung with the choir for at least a decade, many since the choir's inception in 1990. 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 in twice-yearly workshops and regular coaching sessions. All choir members sing in the three season's concerts. There are also additional and varied performance opportunities for members who wish to participate: at City Hall, schools, libraries, shelters, nursing homes, and private venues.
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. The two rehearsal groups come together for special rehearsals, workshops, performances, and various social events.
Dues
Annual dues are $300, 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 Manager for information.
Joining the Choir
The choir maintains a waiting list, from which choir vacancies are filled 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.