Business Details
44 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Choral Education in Seattle
Founded in 1982 by Dr. Jerome L. Wright and currently led by Artistic Director Sarra S. Doyle, Seattle Girls' Choir has dedicated over four decades to providing young singers with comprehensive choral education and a sense of community. Our eight choir levels, ranging from kindergarten through high school, emphasize vocal technique, musical literacy, and ensemble performance. With 250 choristers from Seattle and King County attending over 90 schools, we offer progressive instruction through music theory, sight-singing, ear-training, and performance skills.Our summer programs include day camps and overnight camps, serving as entry points for new choristers. Recognized for domestic and international tours, including performances at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod and Salzburg Festival, we collaborate with organizations like Pacific Northwest Ballet and Seattle Pro Musica. Our mission remains rooted in enriching the Pacific Northwest cultural landscape through quality musical education and fostering belonging.
Services
Choral Education
Summer Music Camps
Performance Tours
Music Theory Instruction
Youth Choir Programs
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of experience in youth choral education.
- Our eight progressive choir levels cater to all skill stages.
- We provide domestic and international performance opportunities.
- Our faculty includes professional conductors and music educators.
- We foster community through collaborative arts partnerships.
Services
Choral Education
Our progressive choral education includes eight choir levels for K-12 students, focusing on vocal technique, music theory, and ensemble performance. Each level builds sequentially, preparing choristers for advanced musical challenges. With auditioned and non-auditioned options, we accommodate all skill levels while maintaining rigorous artistic standards.
Summer Music Camps
Weeklong summer day camps provide immersive music experiences for beginners and experienced singers. Activities include choir rehearsals, instrumental exploration, and dance. Financial aid ensures accessibility, while specialized tracks cater to different age groups. Camps culminate in family concerts showcasing participants' musical growth.
Performance Tours
Advanced choirs participate in domestic and international tours every 2-3 years. Recent destinations include Wales, Austria, and Finland. These tours combine competition participation with cultural exchange experiences. Travel opportunities enhance choristers' performance skills through exposure to global musical traditions.
Music Theory Instruction
Core curriculum includes sight-singing, ear-training, and music theory instruction. These skills are integrated across all choir levels to develop comprehensive musical understanding. Instruction emphasizes practical application through ensemble performance and solo repertoire preparation.
Youth Choir Programs
Eight distinct choir levels serve diverse age groups and skill levels. From introductory Piccolini for K-1 students to advanced Prime Voci for high schoolers, each program maintains specific rehearsal schedules and performance requirements. Contemporary ensemble Sorella offers modern repertoire for teen choristers.
People
Sarra S. Doyle
Artistic Director
Sarra S. Doyle leads Seattle Girls' Choir's artistic vision, conducting Prime Voci and Allegra ensembles. With decades of choral conducting experience, she maintains the organization's commitment to musical excellence while expanding its community impact through innovative programming.
Lauren Kastanas
Executive Director
Lauren Kastanas oversees Seattle Girls' Choir's administrative operations and conducts the Sorella ensemble. Her leadership focuses on organizational sustainability and expanding access to choral education through financial aid programs and community partnerships.
Dr. Jerome L. Wright
Founder & Artistic Director Emeritus
Dr. Jerome L. Wright founded Seattle Girls' Choir in 1982, establishing its foundation for musical excellence. As Artistic Director Emeritus, his legacy continues through the organization's commitment to quality choral education and community building.
Questions
What age groups does Seattle Girls Choir serve?
We serve choristers from kindergarten through high school across eight choir levels. Programs are specifically designed for different developmental stages and skill levels.
Are auditions required for all choir levels?
Auditions are required for five progressive ensembles. Piccolini (K-1) is non-auditioned, while Entrata (grades 4-6) offers an introductory auditioned pathway.
What performance opportunities exist?
Choristers participate in 3-7 annual performances depending on level. Advanced choirs tour domestically/internationally every 2-3 years and collaborate with organizations like Pacific Northwest Ballet.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, we provide financial aid for summer camps and annual tuition. Aid applications are available through our website with no separate audition required.
How can families get involved?
Families participate through volunteer opportunities, attending concerts, and supporting fundraising initiatives. Parent volunteers assist with events, costume management, and tour logistics.
