The Methodist University Choir Program is offering performances to churches within the NCCUMC for services or special events from October 2010 through May 2011. “In the past three years, we have performed at over 15 United Methodist Churches, from South Carolina to New Jersey,” said Michael Martin, M.M.Ed., M.M., director of choral activities and music education at Methodist University. “Some performances were limited to Sunday services while others were for special afternoon or evening concert events.”
There are four performing groups within the MU Choir Program. The Methodist University Chorale, directed by Michael Martin, is the premier, choral ensemble of the University. The ensemble consists of approximately 24-32 vocalists selected through a voice placement process and performs traditional/advanced choral literature from all periods. In addition to its regular concert schedule, the Chorale tours each spring, and has made appearances in Orlando and New York City.
The MU Chamber Singers is an octet directed by Michael Martin that is selected through an audition process and made up of members of the MU Chorale. The ensemble performs vocal jazz, madrigals, and pop a cappella, etc., and is available for smaller venues around campus and the immediate Fayetteville area.
The Noblemen, directed by Michael Martin, is a men’s chorus ensemble open to all men in the MU community who love to sing and enjoy camaraderie through music. Selections from every music epoch will be performed, from serious forms to pop/contemporary a cappella forms.
The Treble Tones, directed by Elizabeth Winstead, is a one-credit ensemble that is open to all women in the MU community. Membership includes students from all disciplines who love to sing and enjoy camaraderie through music. Membership is intended to provide a foundation in the area of vocal technique, while achieving a high standard of excellence in repertoire selected from all periods and musical styles. The Noblemen and Treble Tones generally perform together.
The groups require a 30-day notice to perform at a service or special event. “If possible, we ask that a donation be made to help offset travel expenses,” said Martin. “The MU Chorale is also trying to raise funds for its upcoming European tour in March of 2011, which will include performances in Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris.”
To request a performance by one of the groups within the Methodist University Choir Program, please call Michael Martin at (910) 630-7153 or send an e-mail to mmartin@methodist.edu.