CONGRESSIONAL CHORUS

Congressional Chorus is the only chorus in the metropolitan DC area that focuses on singing an eclectic variety of American music, including world premiere commissioned works, 21st century "New Music,” blues, jazz, contemporary classical, folksongs, rock, spirituals, Broadway hits, and popular standards. Singers come from all professions and live in DC, Maryland and Virginia.

The Chamber Ensemble is a select group of highly trained and experienced singers, focusing on advanced and adventurous a cappella repertoire.

Rehearsals 
For the health and safety of our members, we:

• require proof of COVID-19 vaccination

• provide resources for practicing at home

• provide Zoom broadcasts of rehearsals for members who are sick

Location: Live at 10th and G (First Congregational UCC) in DC on Mondays from 7:00–9:30 pm.

Dues 
Dues for Congressional Chorus membership are $300 for the year, or $100 per concert. If a singer cannot afford to pay in full, scholarships are available based on need. Members requiring financial assistance may be given volunteer duties to complete in lieu of paying dues. Additional music dues are collected for each concert cycle. 

NORTHEAST SENIOR SINGERS

Are you a senior living in the DC area looking to sing with an informal group of other seniors? Then join the NorthEast Senior Singers! No audition necessary. The program is open and free to all seniors.

The NorthEast Senior Singers (NESS) is a musical outlet for Washington's senior citizens, and part of our Congressional Chorus family of choruses. NESS is one of the only programs in the District that provides musical opportunities specifically for the elderly with a focus on providing older residents with performance-centered experiences alongside a community of younger singers. NESS singers are provided with free transportation to and from all Congressional Chorus concerts.

NESS was featured in a PBS documentary about "Arts and Aging," and stands as an example of how music can foster creative vitality in senior citizens. Studies have shown that singing can have many health benefits for seniors, including strengthened memory, enhanced, healing, improved immune system, expanded lung capacity, increased cognition, and more.

CALLING ALL DC SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES - Interested in starting a chorus in your neighborhood? We’d love to hear from you.

Rehearsals are Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 pm at Fortitude Penthouse, Delta Towers, 1400 Florida Ave NE # 1, Washington, DC 20002

AMERICAN YOUTH CHORUS

Enrolling throughout September and mid-December through mid-January. Students in grades 3-8 are invited to come for a fun, free, open rehearsal as we learn and explore the voice together. Sing along or just watch until you're comfortable joining in. Guardians attend just the first rehearsal. Get to know the staff and chorus culture, meet other students, ask questions, and learn some basics about singing through simple songs and musical games. No preparation or experience needed.

Rehearsals
Wednesdays 4:15-6pm at Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 7th St SE, Washington, DC

American Youth Chorus (AYC) provides music education, performance experience, and community for Washington, DC-area children in grades three to eight. Artistic Director Jonathon Hampton teaches music theory and history, reading and writing of diverse music of all genres, centered on U.S. composers spanning centuries. AYC was founded in 2008 as part of a multigenerational family of choruses who they sing with and learn from—NorthEast Senior Singers and parent organization Congressional Chorus. Performance highlights include The White House, The Kennedy Center, The National Archives Museum, Library of Congress, and the U.S. Department of State. Annual concert trips and retreats give students broad opportunities to showcase their artistic skills and develop teamwork, independence, confidence, and artistry, in addition to meeting and experiencing performances of professional caliber musicians. Several year-round AYC performances give back to DMV-area audiences at community venues and civic and community events, including art galleries, sports stadiums, libraries, elderly care facilities, cathedrals, concert halls, and beyond! AmericanYouthChorus.org

Are you passionate about singing but never had the chance to learn how to read music? Look no further! The Congressional Chorus has the perfect opportunity for you.

Introducing STEPWISE, our adult tutoring program specially designed for individuals with little to no experience with musical notation and ensemble singing. This program is tailored to cater to each individual's learning pace, providing a step-by-step approach to enhance your musical skills.

With STEPWISE, you'll get the chance to explore your love for singing while learning how to read music and sing in an ensemble. Our expert tutors will guide you through fundamental concepts of music notation such as:

• pitch

• the musical staff

• clefs

• musical symbols

• note values and rhythm

• key signatures

• time signatures

• measures

So, what are you waiting for? Join the Congressional Chorus and STEPWISE program today and take the first step towards fulfilling your passion for music!