FAQ's: Frequently Asked Questions

What type of repertoire does Consonare Chorale sing? Concerts are thematically programmed and our artistic director makes a concerted effort to present concerts that are diverse and pleasing to the ear.

How large is the group? The ensemble ranges from 35-40 singers and we sing from 4-16 parts. A majority of our literature is between 6-8 parts.

Where/when does the choir rehearse? Consonare Chorale rehearses at Parkrose United Church of Christ 11111 NE Knott Street, Portland, Oregon 97220. Our rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings from 7:00-9:30pm. Rehearsals usually begin the first week of September. We observe a winter break from our first concert through the New Year.

(mid-November – January 1st)

How many concerts does Consonare Chorale perform in a season? The ensemble generally performs three concerts a season. We also look for opportunities to perform outreach concerts and take part in unique collaborations.

Where does Consonare Chorale perform? Most of our concerts take place in or around metro Portland.

Are there fees/dues? Members of Consonare Chorale pay a $45/mo. on a sliding scale to $30/mo. membership fee. Our artistic director and board of directors are committed to making participation a possibility through scholarship. Finances should not hinder participation.

When does Consonare Chorale hold auditions? Auditions occur throughout the year at the artistic director’s discretion, but they are primarily held between July - August. We auditioned between concert preparations should a need arise.

What is the audition process? The audition will consist of vocalizing, sight reading, singing an excerpt of concert literature provided by the artistic director, Tonal Memory, and brief interview.  Each audition takes about 30 minutes.  Please see the “audition” link on left column of the page for details.

Consonare Chorale Guiding Principles

The chorale is an ensemble of passionate and accomplished musicians. Our name comes from a desire to come together "to harmonize, sound, and resonate" with the ideas and aesthetics encompassed in excellent choral literature. Via interpretation we are able to express the profound effect that music has in our lives.

Mission Statement

Consonare Chorale is a vibrant community of accomplished musicians dedicated to diverse engaging performances. We entertain, educate and connect with audiences in a refreshingly approachable and intimate experience.

Member Mission

Members cultivate a community where musicians value taking positive risks within the creative process. By honoring our music, each other, and communicating a spirit of joy in song we highlight the grace of the human condition embodied in our lives and literature.

Core Values

• Valuing our instruments and the vocal technique that is required to perform varied & challenging literature.

• Providing a network of support and encouragement from within our ensemble that is palpable to our audience.

• Unabashedly unleashing the energy and joy found in performing music.

• Realizing the synergy of a diverse choir focused on a common musical goal.

• Modeling a SATB choral ensemble to our community that reinforces a place for the arts after school, college, or just a long day at work!

• Redefining our choral future through a creative collaboration/networking of patrons, venues, & choral music lovers.