Voice your interest
Rhodd Caldwell
Prime your vocal pipes and prepare to possibly join the Coastal Voices, the largest mixed chorus on the Central Oregon Coast. Sign-ups are now open for vocal introductions in preparation for the upcoming fall season at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Newport on Saturday, Aug. 23 and Tuesday, Aug. 26.
Adults interested in contributing their voice to a vibrant choral community are warmly invited to participate and, for the first time, kids aged 14 to 17 are also welcome to audition through the group’s newly established Youth Internship Program. This initiative offers young singers an immersive experience in ensemble singing, rehearsal processes and performance preparation. Internship positions are limited; contact the choir for more information.
Each person who signs up for vocal introductions will meet for a 30-minute session with Artistic Director Rhodd Caldwell.
“This is not an audition,” Caldwell said. “I call our audition process a 'vocal introduction' because it's exactly that: a relaxed and easy opportunity for me to learn more about a prospective singer's musical background, and for them to understand how I approach singing and choral music.” Neither previous choral singing experience nor the ability to read music is required.
Every new singer is welcomed with a structured and encouraging environment, including optional Music 101 instruction and a mentor system to ensure a smooth transition into the ensemble.
“We have a strong support system in place for new singers,” said Margaret Mortimer, board member and Music 101 instructor.
Weekly rehearsals will begin Tuesday, Sept. 9, from 6 to 8:30 pm, at First Presbyterian Church in Newport.
The theme of this season’s December concert series is "Tidings of Comfort and Joy," which is a multicultural celebration of music for Kwanzaa, Chanukkah, Solstice and Christmas. In addition to English, there will be works in Latin, Swahili, Italian and Spanish.
Beyond the concert season, the chorus is planning a variety of community-focused events this year, including sing-alongs in September and December.
Vocal Introductions will be held at 9:30 am on Saturday, Aug. 23, and at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, Aug. 26, at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, located at SW 9th and Hurbert Streets in Newport. For more information and to sign up, go to coastal-voices.org or call 541-283-6295.