Fort Dodge, Iowa

HISTORY

Organized in the spring of 1968 by individuals who were interested in providing an opportunity for the study and performance of challenging sacred and secular choral music compositions; and to participate in the rich cultural environment of the community; the Fort Dodge Choral Society is one of the oldest community groups dedicated to the performance of fine choral literature in the state of Iowa.

The Choral Society’s premiere performance was held in the Fort Dodge Senior High Little Theater on December 19, 1968, with guest soloist, Marian Krajewska, from the Drake University faculty, performing Poulenc’s “Gloria” with the Society. The program also included Pinkham’s “Christmas Cantata.”

Below is a photograph taken at the premiere performance

GENERAL INFORMATION

Singing membership is open to all who love the choral art and fine singing. (There may be an informal audition required.) The group rehearses for two hours each Monday evening in preparation for the upcoming concert. Rehearsals will be at Grace Lutheran Church from 7:30 – 9:30 P.M. on Mondays. Although singers are encouraged to participate in all concerts throughout the season, the makeup of the group does change slightly from concert to concert. There usually are one or two extra rehearsals in the week prior to a concert. Although attendance at each rehearsal is ideal, one or two missed rehearsals do not preclude participation in a concert. Please notify section leaders of any planned absences.

OUR 40^th SEASON!

There is still time to purchase season memberships. Please help us in our 2007-2008 season with a big show of support. Memberships include free admission to all four concerts. We're so grateful to each of you who sent in your support last year. We couldn't have done it without you. Thank you!

Singing is a source of great joy! A recent Chorus America survey found that more people sing in choirs than participate in any other group activity. The survey did not address the reasons why people sing in choirs, but the smiles on singers' faces as they leave rehearsals answers that question. Plan to make singing part of your life. Come, bring a friend, and experience the joy!

If you are interested in singing with the Choral Society, then stop by for our first rehearsal Monday, August 20^th, at the historic Ringland-Smeltzer House, 1019 Second Avenue South. If you are a new singer to the group, on this “guest night” you will have the opportunity to see and hear what we are all about. The rehearsal is 7:30 to 9:30 pm, with a break in the middle for talk and refreshments.

This first concert will include a piece originally commissioned by FDCS in its early years – John Carter’s The Crown of Peace. We’re hoping that many former members will be able to join us for this performance.

Other rehearsals for the first concert will begin Monday, August 27^th, at our regular time and place – Mondays, 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm at Grace Lutheran Church, 211 South 9^th Street, Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Conductor, Bruce Perry leading rehearsal.

(Photos by A. Yungclas)

The group performs with music. Concert attire is black, floor-length long-sleeved dresses for women (your choice of style) and black tuxedos for men. Singers are responsible for their own concert attire.

(Photo by J. Larson)

MEMBERSHIP

New members are always welcome to join the Fort Dodge Choral Society. Singing members of FDCS include many of the finest musicians from Fort Dodge and surrounding communities. The group is a cross section of vocations and age groups. Ranging in age from high school students to retirees, FDCS is one of the finest intergenerational choirs in the Midwest. Working side-by-side, the members are bound together by the common goal of creating beautiful music. Those who desire may receive college credit for participation in the group. (These credits apply toward teacher certificate renewal.)

COMMITTEES

Singing members are asked to help with the group’s annual season membership drive which helps provide the financial resources to pay for the expenses incurred throughout the season. Singing members are encouraged to purchase a season membership. Additionally, singers are encouraged to serve on various committees, ranging from publicity to refreshments to concert arrangements to member recruitment. Feel free to talk to the conductor, directors, or any member if there are questions you may have.

SEASON MEMBERSHIP LEVELS

Student $12

Senior Citizen $25

Single Adult $30

Family $50

Sustaining $75

Sponsor $100

Patron $200

Benefactor $500

Philanthropist $1,000

Membership forms may be downloaded here:

Membership form rtf.