25th Anniversary of Northwest Repertory Singers
Fun Facts
25 Fun Facts for NWRS 25th Anniversary Celebration
1. Paul Schultz, founder of the Northwest Repertory Singers, grew up on a Michigan dairy farm and was educated in a one-room schoolhouse. A lifelong choral director and teacher, Paul Schultz was a distinguished music educator for nearly five decades.
2. 261 total people have sung with the NWRS, ranging in age from college students to retirees, making NWRS a true multigenerational community. 84 sopranos, 65 altos, 65 tenors, 47 basses.
3. There are thirteen singers from the original 55 singers, charter members, who are still singing with the NWRS making them true founding members. 2 sopranos, 6 altos, 1 tenor and 4 basses.
4. The NWRS has sung 61 concerts including two virtual concerts during the pandemic.
5. Four of the charter members have sung in all 61 concerts…Ross Aker, Kathy Emerson, Karen Short and Tom Walworth.
6. 548 different choral works have been performed by NWRS over the past 25 years ranging from Renaissance motets to modern premieres.
7. The NWRS has sung 15 major works including the Liebeslieder Walzer, Op. 52, Faure Requiem, Bass Gloria, Mass in D by Haydn, Mozart Requiem, Ein deutsches Requiem, Op. 45 by Brahms and Lux Aeterna by Lauridson.
8. The NWRS has sung works from 258 composers and is proud to count three of our ensemble members whose original works we’ve had the honor of performing. Kyle Haugen, Sharon Stearnes-Szigeti, and Tom Walworth.
9. NWRS has performed works by living composers almost every season, including Eric Whitacre, Ola Gjeilo, Kyle Haugen, Sarah Quartel, Dan Forrest, Jake Ruestad, Michael McGlynn, Kim Andre Arnesen, Z. Randall Stroope, Morten Lauridsen and more.
10. NWRS has performed works in eight languages—from Latin and German to Russian, Chinese and Hebrew.
11. NWRS concerts have collaborated with over 30 groups including orchestras, jazz bands, gospel choirs, a Native American Chief, youth choirs, and even ballet dancers (thanks to collaborations with Tacoma City Ballet).
12. NWRS has performed at memorials, civic events, and arts festivals, sharing their music beyond the concert hall.
13. NWRS singers come from diverse professional backgrounds—including teachers, engineers, healthcare workers, business leaders, and retirees, all united by their love of choral music.
14. After the initial audition, NWRS members must audition every other year to remain in the ensemble to uphold the ensemble’s reputation for exceptional vocal quality and musical precision.
15. The ensemble once hosted a “Composer-in-Residence” season, featuring new commissioned works and visits from regional composers who worked directly with the singers.
16. Since 2001 NWRS has commissioned and premiered nearly a dozen new choral works, many written specifically for the ensemble by regional composers.
17. The ensemble participated in the global “Rolling Requiem” in 2002, commemorating the first anniversary of the 9/11 attacks by performing Mozart’s Requiem simultaneously with choirs worldwide.
18. In 2007, Morten Lauridsen called NWRS “a jewel among chamber choruses in America” after hearing their performance at the American Masterpieces Choral Festival.
19. The ensemble performed Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in 2008 with the Northwest Sinfonietta and Brahms Ein deutsches Requiem in 2014 with the Rainier Symphony —two of its most ambitious and stellar projects.
20. Over the past 25 years, the NWRS has earned recognition for its musical excellence, community contributions and artistic leadership including extraordinary praise from both Morten Lauridsen and Dale Warland, the Mayor of Tacoma proclaiming June 4, 2011 as Northwest Repertory Singers Day” on its 10th anniversary, and receiving the “Jim Smith Award” from the Pierce County Arts Commission which is given to individuals and organizations that have made significant and innovative contributions to the development of the arts in Pierce County.
21. Kyle Haugen, now Artistic Director, spent 10 years as Assistant Director before taking the baton in 2018.
22. Marjorie Skreen-Dickerson has been the ensemble’s exceptional accompanist for all 25 years, an incredible milestone!
23. NWRS has performed at notable venues throughout the region including Tacoma’s Rialto Theater, Mason United Methodist Church, Schneebeck Concert Hall and Kilworth Memorial Chapel at the University of Puget Sound, and Christ Episcopal Church. In Seattle, performances have taken place at Benaroya Hall, First Baptist Church, St. Mark’s Cathedral, and Town Hall. Beyond the Puget Sound area, the choir has also appeared at the Festhalle in Leavenworth, San Juan Community Theatre in the San Juan Islands, and First Congregational Church in Portland, Oregon.
24. NWRS was featured at a documentary screening in the San Juan Islands for "Shining Night: A Portrait of Composer Morten Lauridsen", with Lauridsen attending the performance.
25. Each season, NWRS singers donate hundreds of volunteer hours…from setting up risers and selling tickets to promoting concerts and helping with fundraising events.
Learn More About the NWRS 25 Fun Facts
1. What Humble Beginnings Influenced the Founder of NWRS?
Dr. Paul Schultz (1938-2021), the beloved founding conductor of Northwest Repertory Singers, was raised in a dairy farm! A lifelong choral director and teacher, he formed the NWRS in 2001 and had a distinguished musical journey that greatly shaped the ensemble’s identity. He studied conducting with the world-renowned maestro Helmuth Rilling in Germany, gaining direct insight into the European choral tradition and refining his expertise in interpreting both classical and modern works. Dr. Schultz’s influence extended far beyond NWRS. Dr. Schultz led with more than a conductor’s wand. He was a distinguished music educator for nearly five decades, connecting and influencing people, building relationships between ensemble and conductor, campus and community.
Schultz grew up on a Michigan dairy farm and was educated in a one-room schoolhouse. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Central Michigan University, served in the U.S. Army infantry, and got his Ph.D. at Michigan State. He was a high school choral director for 12 years, then came to the University of Puget Sound, serving as Director of Choral Activities and Chair of the Music Department at the University of Puget Sound 1982-1999.
Dr. Schultz was a central figure in the Puget Sound musical community where he mentored generations of singers, conductors, and educators. His dedication to high musical standards, artistic integrity, and expressive performance left a lasting mark on both academic and community music in the region. At the heart of Dr. Schultz’s philosophy was a deeply human goal: to move audiences through choral music. He believed that beyond technical excellence, the true power of music lay in its ability to connect emotionally, inspire reflection, and uplift the human spirit. His programming choices and conducting style were driven by this vision…to perform music that speaks to the heart, not just the ear. At the University of Puget Sound, he broadened the Adelphians’ musical repertoire and added more concerts throughout the year, as well as an annual fall retreat that fostered both musical skills and relationship-building. One highlight of his tenure was the Adelphians’ 60th anniversary concert at Tacoma’s historic First Methodist Church, with Schultz and his predecessor, Bruce Rodgers, both conducting and a number of alumni joining the singing.
After the University of Puget Sound, Schultz created the Tacoma School of the Arts’ vocal department, was founding director of the Tacoma Symphony Chorus, and formed the Northwest Repertory Singers (NWRS) in 2001, an all-star ensemble of vocalists, conducting them until his retirement in 2018. His legacy lives on through the NWRS, where his foundational passion for choral artistry and meaningful performance continues to guide the ensemble’s mission “To enrich and inspire our community through the transformative power of choral music, performing a diverse and engaging repertoire with excellence, passion, and integrity.”
Schultz, who once said, “I’ve been privileged throughout my career to work with the best and I believe we all became better through the power of music,” died on Jan. 14, in Lexington, Ky. He was 82. He was survived by his wife of 49 years, composer Donna Gartman Schultz, who passed away in 2025.
2. How Many People Have Sung with the NWRS In Its 25 Year History?
Since its founding, 261 singers have performed with Northwest Repertory Singers, ranging in age from college students to retirees, making it a vibrant, multigenerational community unlike any other. This remarkable roster includes 84 sopranos, 65 altos, 65 tenors, and 47 basses, each bringing their unique voice, experience, and spirit to the ensemble.
But NWRS is more than just a collection of talented singers, it is truly a musical family. Members travel from far and wide—from Olympia to Bellevue and points in between—commuting through traffic congestion, backups, and late-night drives home, often in pouring rain or even snow. Despite the long hours and logistical challenges, singers show up week after week because NWRS offers something irreplaceable: the joy of making music together at the highest level.
Rehearsals become a cherished part of life, not just preparation for concerts. There is laughter, camaraderie, and a deep sense of shared purpose. Singers support one another through the tough passages of a score, and through the ups and downs of life. There’s friendly competition and encouragement when solo parts are up for grabs, and genuine celebration when someone nails a difficult passage or gets the solo.
Over the years, we’ve shared so much more than music. We’ve celebrated weddings, anniversaries, new babies, and milestone birthdays, and we’ve grieved together, singing at the funerals of beloved members and supporting one another through personal losses and family tragedies. These moments are woven into the fabric of the ensemble.
NWRS isn’t just a choir, it’s a place where deep friendships are formed, where voices blend into something greater than the individual, and where the shared passion for beautiful music binds people together across generations and backgrounds. This community of 268 singers has left a lasting legacy—one of commitment, excellence, and joy.
3. Are Any of the Original Singers will With NWRS?
Yes—an incredible testament to the ensemble’s lasting community and musical spirit, thirteen singers from the original 55 founding members are still actively singing with NWRS today. This dedicated group includes 1 soprano, 6 altos, 1 tenor, and 2 basses.
Sopranos: Julie Martin and Katie Walker-Loffer
Altos: Kristi Bowman-Morgan, Kathy Emerson, Christine Hall, Carolyn Johnson-Hoffman, Andrea Klyn and Karen Short
Tenor: Ross Aker
Basses: Clark Deem, Robert Dennis, Tom Martin and Tom Walworth
Their continued presence highlights the strong sense of connection, purpose, and joy that NWRS fosters among its members. These singers have not only contributed their voices over the years but have also helped to build and sustain the ensemble’s culture of excellence. Their long-term commitment reflects the meaningful relationships, artistic fulfillment, and shared pride in NWRS’s mission of delivering exceptional choral music. As mentors to newer singers and examples of lifelong musicianship, these original members embody the heart and history of NWRS, bridging the group’s founding vision with its ongoing evolution and success.
4. How Many Concerts have NWRS Performed?
Since its founding, Northwest Repertory Singers have performed 59 live concerts and 2 virtual concerts during the pandemic, maintaining an extraordinary commitment to musical excellence and community engagement. Until June 2018, the NWRS presented three full concert programs each season between September and May, performing a wide range of sophisticated choral works. The ensemble sang both a cappella and with instrumental accompaniment, interpreting music in multiple languages and mastering a vast repertoire spanning from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary compositions and world premieres.
Following Dr. Paul Schultz’s retirement and then the challenges of the pandemic, NWRS entered a period of rebuilding, focusing on restoring membership, choral stamina, and vocal balance. During this time, the ensemble thoughtfully transitioned to two concerts per season, one in December and one in May each year, while steadily welcoming new members and expanding its vocal strength. By Fall 2024, the NWRS was back to full strength and more demanding music was selected.
Despite the ebbs and flows of membership, the NWRS has never compromised on artistic quality. The ensemble always delivers top-level performances, consistently achieving an extraordinary choral sound that resonates deeply with audiences. Each concert remains a moving and memorable musical experience, reflecting the ensemble’s resilience, dedication, and enduring passion for choral artistry.
5. Has Any NWRS Member Sung in Every Concert?
Yes—an extraordinary four singers have performed in every one of NWRS’s 61 concerts: Ross Aker (Tenor Section Leader), Kathy Emerson, Karen Short (Alto Section Leader), and Tom Walworth (Bass Section Leader). Their commitment goes far beyond attendance; they are foundational pillars of the ensemble. Karen Short and Kathy Emerson are not only long-standing members but also twin sisters, bringing a unique lifelong bond to their musical collaboration. Karen serves as the current Alto Section Leader, sharing her musical expertise and leadership to help her section achieve the highest standards of performance. Similarly, Ross Aker and Tom Walworth have provided exceptional leadership, serving as section leaders for the majority of NWRS’s 25-year history.
Their contributions extend well beyond their own vocal parts—both have been instrumental in guiding, teaching, and mentoring singers within their sections, fostering a supportive and disciplined learning environment. Their remarkable consistency and dedication are not simply about perfect attendance, but about their integral role in building NWRS’s musical excellence year after year. Their leadership, musicianship, and passion have helped shape the ensemble’s identity and success, inspiring both new and veteran singers to continually strive for artistic growth.
6. How Many Different Choral Works has NWRS Performed in 25 Years?
Over its 25-year history, NWRS has performed an extraordinary repertoire of 548 different choral works, reflecting a vast and varied musical journey. This repertoire spans centuries, beginning with intricate Renaissance motets that showcase the purity and complexity of early polyphony, and extending to vibrant modern premieres that push the boundaries of contemporary choral expression.
This impressive range highlights NWRS’s commitment to exploring the full spectrum of choral music, from historical masterpieces to innovative new compositions. Tackling such a diverse body of work demands versatility and depth from every singer, as each piece brings unique stylistic challenges, vocal techniques, and interpretive nuances. By embracing this broad repertoire, NWRS not only honors the rich traditions of choral music but also actively contributes to its evolution, engaging audiences with fresh and compelling performances season after season. This extensive musical legacy is a testament to the ensemble’s artistic curiosity, dedication, and passion for delivering meaningful and memorable choral experiences.
7. What Major Choral Works has NWRS Sung?
Yes—NWRS has proudly performed an impressive range of over 15 major choral masterpieces that showcase the ensemble’s versatility and artistic ambition. Their repertoire includes beloved classics such as Brahms’ Ein deutsches Requiem, deeply moving and complex work that demands both technical precision and profound emotional expression, and Mozart’s Requiem, one of the most iconic and challenging works in the choral canon. The ensemble has also tackled Haydn’s Mass in D, known for its joyful spirit and intricate vocal lines, and Fauré’s Requiem, which requires delicate balance and sensitivity. Other monumental works include Brahms’ Liebeslieder Walzer, the jubilant Bass Gloria, and Morten Lauridsen’s ethereal Lux Aeterna, which highlights NWRS’s commitment to contemporary choral music alongside classical repertoire.
Performing these major works requires not only individual vocal excellence but also exceptional ensemble cohesion, interpretive insight, and stamina. NWRS’s successful presentation of such demanding compositions attests to the singers’ skill, dedication, and the high artistic standards upheld by the ensemble. These performances have been cornerstones of NWRS’s concert seasons, allowing audiences to experience the profound power and beauty of great choral music.
Carols & Lullabies - Conrad Susa
Ceremony of Carols - Britten
Ein deutsches Requiem - Brahms
Everyday Wonders: The Girl from Aleppo - Ceclia McDowall
Gloria - Bass, Randol Alan
Gloria - Rutter
Gloria, RV 589 - Antonio Vivaldi
Liebeslieder Walzer, Op. 52 - Johannes Brahms
Lux Aeterna - Lauridsen
Mass in D (Lord Nelson) - Haydn
Mozart Requiem K. 626 - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Requiem - Faure
Song of the Salish Chief - Berring
Symphony No. 9, “Choral” - Beethoven
The Messiah - Handel
8. How Many Composer/Arrangers Works Has NWRS Performed?
NWRS has performed works by an impressive 250 composers/arrangers, spanning a remarkable range of styles, periods, and cultural traditions. This diverse repertoire reflects the ensemble’s dedication to celebrating the rich tapestry of choral music from Renaissance motets and classical masterpieces to contemporary premieres and innovative new compositions.
Interpreting such a wide variety of music demands exceptional versatility and skill, as each composer presents unique musical languages, technical challenges, and expressive nuances. Performing works by so many different composers and arrangers requires deep musical insight, adaptability, and a finely tuned ensemble technique. Singers must not only master multiple languages and historical styles but also connect emotionally with the distinct voices behind each piece. Adding to this richness, NWRS performs original works by three of its own members—Kyle Haugen, John Stearnes-Szigeti, and Tom Walworth—bringing a personal and creative dimension to the ensemble’s artistry. These internal collaborations foster innovation and a shared sense of ownership.
9. What Contemporary Composer’s Music Have NWRS Sung?
Absolutely—one of NWRS’s defining characteristics is its active engagement with the music of living composers. Nearly every concert season features works by contemporary voices, reflecting the ensemble’s passion for keeping choral music fresh, relevant, and connected to today’s artistic expression. NWRS has showcased an impressive array of living composers from around the world, celebrating a wide spectrum of musical styles and cultural influences. Performing the music of living composers provides a unique opportunity for the singers to bring new, evolving choral art to life, often introducing audiences to pieces that are still shaping the future of the genre.
Some of the distinguished living composers whose works NWRS has performed include:
· Eric Whitacre – internationally acclaimed for his shimmering, atmospheric harmonies.
· Ola Gjeilo – known for his cinematic style blending classical and contemporary elements.
· Morten Lauridsen – beloved composer of emotionally rich modern classics
· Kyle Haugen – NWRS Artistic Director, contributing beautiful original compositions filled with artistry and compassion.
· Sharon Stearns-Szigeti and Tom Walworth – NWRS member composers whose amazing original works are frequently premiered by the ensemble.
· Sarah Quartel – celebrated for lyrical, approachable modern choral writing.
· Dan Forrest – recognized for lush melodies and accessible sacred choral works.
· Jake Runestad, Christopher Tin, and Ēriks Ešenvalds – prominent names in the global choral scene
· Timothy Takach, Michael McGlynn, Kim André Arnesen, Ruth Morris Gray, Frank Ticheli, Z. Randall Stroope, Susan LaBarr, Dominick DiOrio, Rosephanye Powell, and Joan Szymko – all contributing vibrant and diverse contemporary works to the NWRS repertoire.
This living composer list represents just a portion of NWRS’s commitment to musical innovation. By performing and sometimes premiering new works, NWRS nurtures the evolution of choral music, supporting composers who are actively shaping the choral landscape today. Through these performances, NWRS not only entertains but also expands cultural conversations, giving voice to modern stories, themes, and musical perspectives—all while challenging the singers to interpret fresh musical languages and techniques.
10. In How Many Languages Has NWRS Sung?
NWRS has performed in eight languages (English, German, French, Italian, Latin, Chinese, Hebrew, Russian), going far beyond the typical choral repertoire languages. The ensemble embraces the challenge of presenting works in less commonly performed languages like Russian, Chinese, and Hebrew, among others. Mastering this wide linguistic range requires exceptional dedication from every singer. Learning to sing in multiple languages involves not only mastering correct pronunciation and diction but also understanding the cultural and emotional context behind each text. This depth of linguistic and musical interpretation allows NWRS to bring authenticity and emotional power to every performance, regardless of language barriers.
The commitment to these diverse languages showcases NWRS’s passion for exploring a global choral heritage and honoring the original spirit of each composition. This linguistic versatility also enriches the ensemble’s musicality, challenging singers to develop keen listening skills, adaptability, and a broad stylistic awareness. By pushing beyond standard repertoire languages, NWRS expands both its artistic horizons and its connection to audiences from many cultures, celebrating the universal language of music.
11. When Have NWRS’s Performances Been Amplified By Collaborations?
NWRS concerts have involved over 30 collaborations not including numerous guest artists and musicians. Here are some of the significant collaborations over the past 25 years:
Brass Unlimited, 2010
Clark College Chorale, 2011
Cora Voce, 2016
Cowlitz Tribe Drum Group and the Chief Leschi High, 2007
Curtis High School A Cappella Choir, 2007
Dale Warland – 400 Voice Massed Choir, 2007
Emerald Ridge High School Concert Choir, 2009
Evergreen Brass Quintet, 2006
Federal Way Chorale, 2011
Geiger Montessori School Choir, 2015
Kereem Kandi Quartet, 2009
Lake Union Civic Orchestra, 2009
Magical Strings and the Tera Academy Irish Dancers, 2015
Museum of Glass, 2017
Northwest Sinfonietta, 2006, 2008
Pacific Lutheran University Chorale, 2012
Puget Brass, 2014
Rainier Family Opera, 2010
Rainier Symphony Orchestra, 2016
Rainier Symphony, 2014
Rev. Roy Wilson (Narrator), 2007, 2016
Seattle Sings Combined Choirs, 2017
Sound of Brass, 2014
Stadium High School Symphonic Band, 2009
Tacoma Art Museum, 2017
Tacoma Youth Chorus, 2006, 2008, 2014, 2017
The Coats, 2013
Total Experience Gospel Choir, 2013, 2012
University of Puget Sound Chamber Orchestra, 2022
University of Puget Sound Choir, 2024
University of Puget Sound Dorian Singers, 2012
Washington State History Museum, 2017
12. Does NWRS Perform Outside of Season Concerts?
Yes! NWRS is deeply committed to sharing its music beyond the traditional concert stage.
Over the years, the ensemble has performed at a variety of community events including memorials, civic celebrations, and arts festivals. Moreover, NWRS has been featured at the American Choral Directors Association NW Division Convention (2006), featured in the American Masterpieces Choral Festival with a 400-voice chorus under the direction of Dale Warland (2007), participated in the Leavenworth Choral Festival (2007 and 2008), collaborated with Total Experience Gospel Choir for their 39th Anniversary Celebration (2013), performed as part of Seattle Sings (2013), featured in the Shining Night event at the San Juan Community Theater, San Juan Islands (2014), participated in the Seattle Sings Choral Festival (2017) and collaborated with the Washington State History Museum, Tacoma Art Museum and the Museum of Glass (2017). Moreover, close to home, NWRS has proudly participated in the Proctor Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony for the past decade, becoming a cherished part of this beloved local tradition. These performances allow NWRS to connect directly with the community, offering moments of reflection, celebration, and joy through music. By engaging in diverse public events, NWRS demonstrates its dedication not only to artistic excellence but also to fostering cultural enrichment and strengthening community bonds throughout the Puget Sound region.
13. From Engineers to Educators: What Professional Backgrounds Do NWRS Singers Bring to the Ensemble?
NWRS singers come from a remarkably diverse range of professional backgrounds, reflecting the ensemble’s inclusive and vibrant community. Beyond teachers, engineers, healthcare workers, insurance agents, marketing professionals, lawyers, doctors, business leaders, and retirees, the group also includes accomplished composers, conductors, instrumentalists, music educators, and other arts professionals. This blend of expertise enriches the ensemble’s artistic environment, fostering collaboration and a deep understanding of music from multiple perspectives. The presence of composers and directors within the group brings valuable insight into musical interpretation and creative process, while instrumentalists contribute a strong sense of musicianship and technical skill. Music teachers among the singers help maintain high vocal standards and support peer learning. Despite their varied careers, all members are united by a shared passion for choral music, creating a dynamic and professionally grounded ensemble that thrives on both artistic excellence and community spirit.
14. After The Initial Auditions, Do NWRS Members Remain in the Ensemble Indefinitely?
No, membership in NWRS is not automatic after the initial audition. To uphold the ensemble’s reputation for exceptional vocal quality and musical precision, all members are required to re-audition every other year. This rigorous audition and process is vital for maintaining consistently high artistic standards, ensuring that each singer continues to meet the vocal demands and musicianship required by the repertoire. Regular auditions allow NWRS to assess individual growth, address any technical or stylistic challenges, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. By encouraging ongoing development and accountability, NWRS preserves the ensemble’s caliber and ensures that every performance reflects the highest level of professionalism and artistry.
15. From Score to Stage: Has NWRS featured a Composer-In-Residence?
Yes! NWRS is especially proud to count three of its own members: Kyle Haugen, Sharon Stearns-Szigeti, and Tom Walworth as accomplished composers whose original works have been performed by the ensemble. Having composers within the group adds a unique and dynamic dimension to NWRS, raising the artistic standard and fostering a deeper understanding of the creative process among singers. These multi-talented members contribute not only as performers but also as creators, enriching the ensemble’s repertoire with fresh, meaningful music crafted from within their own community.
16. How Has NWRS Played a Role in Creating New Choral Music?
Since the early 2000s, NWRS has been dedicated to expanding the choral repertoire by commissioning and premiering nearly a dozen new works, many written specifically for the ensemble by talented regional composers. This commitment to supporting living composers fosters local creativity and enriches both NWRS’s programs and the wider choral community with innovative music. Additionally, NWRS hosted a Composer-in-Residence season, featuring new commissions and direct collaboration between composers and singers through workshops and rehearsals. This immersive experience deepened the ensemble’s musical interpretation and exemplifies NWRS’s ongoing dedication to nurturing contemporary choral art.
17. In What International Event Did the NWRS Participate?
NWRS proudly took part in the global Rolling Requiem project, sponsoring Tacoma’s participation in the event, performing Mozart’s Requiem on both the first anniversary of 9/11 in 2002 and again on the 10th anniversary in 2011. This international event was a profound act of remembrance and healing, uniting choirs worldwide in a simultaneous performance to honor the victims and reflect on the tragedy’s enduring impact. For NWRS, these concerts were deeply meaningful, bringing together not only its own members but also guest singers from the broader community and a local volunteer orchestra. The performances symbolized solidarity, resilience, and the power of music to foster collective mourning and hope. Participating in such a significant global event highlighted NWRS’s commitment to using music as a force for connection and remembrance during pivotal moments in history.
18. What Did a Famous Composer Once Say about NWRS?
In 2007, acclaimed composer Morten Lauridsen, one of the most respected and influential figures in contemporary choral music, called NWRS “a jewel among chamber choruses in America” after hearing their performance at the American Masterpieces Choral Festival. Lauridsen’s recognition is especially significant because of his stature in the choral world; his endorsement affirms NWRS’s artistic excellence and places the ensemble among the nation’s finest chamber choirs. His praise not only validated NWRS’s dedication to high-quality musicianship but also strengthened their reputation in the wider choral community.
19. From Choir to Symphony: When Has NWRS Performed With Orchestras?
NWRS has a proud history of collaborating with professional orchestras to present major choral works. Two of their most ambitious and memorable collaborations include a 2006 performance of Mozart’s Requiem with the Northwest Sinfonietta, and a 2014 performance of Brahms’ Ein deutsches Requiem with the Rainier Symphony. These large-scale productions brought together vocalists and instrumentalists in dynamic, powerful performances, showcasing NWRS’s ability to deliver both the intimacy of chamber music and the grandeur of full symphonic works. These collaborations remain highlights in NWRS’s 25-year history of artistic excellence.
20. Has NWRS Earned Official Recognition for its Excellence?
Yes! Over the past 25 years, the Northwest Repertory Singers (NWRS) has earned recognition for its musical excellence, community contributions, and artistic leadership. Notable highlights include:
“A jewel among chamber choruses in America,” as praised by renowned composer Morten Lauridsen following NWRS’s performance at the American Masterpieces Choral Festival in 2007.
Well known conductor Dale Warland declared, “I never expect to hear a better performance of the Argento and the Lauridsen pieces that the NWRS gave at Town Hall. Superb!”
In 2007, NWRS received the “Jim Smith Award” from the Pierce County Arts Commission, one of the prestigious Margaret K Williams Awards which is given to individuals and organizations that have made significant and innovative contributions to the development of the arts in Pierce County.
Official Proclamation from the Mayor of Tacoma, declaring June 4, 2011, “Northwest Repertory Singers Day,” in honor of the ensemble’s 10th anniversary and cultural contributions.
Sponsored Tacoma’s participation in the global “Rolling Requiem” in 2002, commemorating the first anniversary of the September 11 attacks, and again repeated this moving performance in 2011 honoring the 10th anniversary of September 11th.
Invitations to high-profile events at civic events, memorials, and regional arts festivals.
Collaboration with leading Northwest arts organizations, including performances with Northwest Sinfonietta, Rainier Symphony and Tacoma City Ballet.
NWRS continues to be recognized not only for its high musical standards but also for its dedication to enriching the cultural life of the Puget Sound region.
21. How Many Artistic Directors Has the NWRS had in its 25 Year History?
The NWRS has had two conductors in its 25-year history. Founding Director, Dr. Paul Schultz, was the Artistic Director for 17 seasons before he retired in 2018. At that time, Kyle Haugen, NWRS Assistant Conductor for ten years, was overwhelmingly chosen to step into the role of Artistic Director, and has been in this role ever since
Kyle is a Tacoma-bred musician whose multifaceted career as an organist, tenor, conductor, and composer is rooted in rigorous academic training and expansive artistic experience. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music at the University of Puget Sound and a Master of Sacred Music from Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN in conjunction with St. Olaf College. A published composer of choral and keyboard music, Kyle has earned recognition on regional and national American Choral Directors Association lists and as “Editor’s Choice” by one of the leading national music retailers in the United States. Since 2000 his music has been performed, recorded and broadcast on radio and television across the United States.
Since 2018, he has elevated NWRS’s artistic profile while nurturing community engagement, educational outreach, and premier musical performances across the Pacific Northwest. The NWRS is so grateful to have Kyle at the helm, guiding the ensemble with artistry, vision, and a deep commitment to musical excellence.
22. How Many Accompanists has the NWRS had In Its 25-Year History?
NWRS is proud to have had just one exceptional accompanist for its entire 25-year history…Marjorie Skreen-Dickerson. Margie holds a Bachelor of Music and is a highly accomplished pianist, lecturer, and collaborator, working regularly with regional vocal and instrumental artists. She is often described as a “triple-threat musician”—a brilliant pianist, refined vocalist, and skilled conductor. With decades of experience in performance, education, and ensemble collaboration, Margie is widely respected as a leader and mentor in the Pacific Northwest music community. Her artistry enriches every NWRS rehearsal and performance, bringing extraordinary musicianship to NWRS season after season.
23. In What Notable Locations has NWRS Performed?
Aside from two home base churches, Mason Methodist Church in Tacoma (2001 - 2019) and Christ Episcopal Church in Tacoma (2021 - present), notable performance locations include:
Benaroya Hall, Seattle (2007)
Featured in American Masterpieces Choral Festival with a 400-voice chorus under the direction of Dale Warland, performing works by Ives, Lauridsen, Shearing, and others.
Collaborated with Northwest Sinfonietta on Beethoven’s Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage and Symphony No. 9.
Festhalle, Leavenworth (2007)
2007 - Participated in the Leavenworth Choral Festival, performing Vivaldi’s Gloria with a mass choir.
2008 – Participated at the Leavenworth Choral Festival, NWRS performed works by Beethoven, Stroope, Hopkins, Leek, and joined mass choir pieces by Brahms, Thomas, and Wilberg.
First Baptist Church, Seattle (2013)
2013 - Collaborated with Total Experience Gospel Choir for their 39th Anniversary Celebration.
2017 - Participated in the Seattle Sings Choral Festival performing works by Whitacre, Walker, Hogan, and Szymko in a combined choir finale.
First Congregational Church, Portland (2006)
Featured at the American Choral Directors Association NW Division Convention, performing a diverse program including Mendelssohn, Kverno, Hovland, and original works by Tom Walworth and Donna Schultz.
Foster High School (2014)
Performed Brahms’ Ein deutsches Requiem with Rainier Symphony.
Pacific Lutheran University Lagerquist Concert Hall and (2014)
Performed Brahms’ Ein deutsches Requiem with Rainier Symphony.
Rialto Theater, Tacoma (2006)
Performed Mozart’s Requiem with Northwest Sinfonietta.
Rialto Theater, Tacoma (2008)
Collaborated with Northwest Sinfonietta on Beethoven’s Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage and Symphony No. 9.
San Juan Community Theater, San Juan Islands (2014)
NWRS featured in the Shining Night event following the Lauridsen documentary, performing a full program of Lauridsen’s works with Lauridsen in attendance.
St. Mark’s Cathedral, Seattle (2013)
Performed as part of Seattle Sings, showcasing diverse choral works.
Town Hall, Seattle
2006 - Performed Mozart’s Requiem with Northwest Sinfonietta.
2007 - Performed standalone festival program at the American Masterpiece Choral Festival including Argento’s Gloria, Lauridsen’s Dirait-on, and works by Thompson, Schultz, and Parker/Shaw.
2008 - Collaborated with Northwest Sinfonietta on Beethoven’s Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage and Symphony No. 9.
2008 - Women of NWRS joined Lake Union Civic Orchestra to perform Holst’s Neptune from The Planets.
University of Puget Sound, Kilworth Memorial Chapel, Tacoma (2022)
Performed This Shall Be for Music concert with chamber orchestra in tribute to Founding Artistic Director Dr. Paul Schultz, including works by Faure, Dello Joio, Lauridsen, Bernstein, and NWRS composers Schultz and Walworth.
24. In What Documentary Event was NWRS Featured?
NWRS was honored to perform at a special screening of Shining Night: A Portrait of Composer Morten Lauridsen at the San Juan Community Theater in the San Juan Islands. This acclaimed documentary offers an intimate look at Lauridsen’s life, his creative inspirations, and his enduring influence on contemporary choral music. The event was made even more significant by Lauridsen’s personal attendance, providing a rare opportunity for the ensemble to perform directly for the composer whose works have been central to their repertoire.
Following the film screening, NWRS performed a full program exclusively of Lauridsen’s music, including beloved works like O Magnum Mysterium, Sure on This Shining Night, and Dirait-on. Singing these profoundly moving pieces in the presence of the composer created a deeply meaningful experience for both singers and audience members. The event celebrated not only Lauridsen’s global impact on choral music but also NWRS’s dedication to interpreting his music with authenticity and emotional depth. It remains one of the ensemble’s most memorable honors, highlighting NWRS’s connection to living composers and their commitment to bringing exceptional music to life in their community.
25. How Do NWRS Singers Help Sustain and Strengthen the Ensemble Offstage?
Northwest Repertory Singers is built on a remarkable foundation of volunteerism. Beyond their musical contributions, NWRS singers collectively donate hundreds of volunteer hours each season, helping ensure every aspect of the organization runs smoothly.
In addition to their work on stage, many members serve on a volunteer Board of Directors that steers the organization. This dedicated group is responsible for governance, strategic vision, and day-to-day oversight. They lead fundraising efforts, manage bookkeeping and finances, and handle all aspects of marketing and public relations to keep the community engaged and informed.
Board members and volunteers take on the full coordination of concerts, including venue logistics, setup and teardown, stage management, and hospitality for guest instrumentalists and conductors. They also ensure the website remains updated, manage ticketing operations, and maintain NWRS’s reputation as a financially responsible and community-driven nonprofit.
This volunteer-driven model keeps NWRS artistically vibrant, financially healthy, and community-focused. It also fosters a deep sense of ownership and pride among the singers, who are not just performers but active participants in shaping the choir’s success.
From building programs to setting chairs, from balancing the budget to establishing a long-term vision for growth, NWRS singers and board members embody what it means to be a true musical community—serving not only through song, but through steadfast dedication and behind-the-scenes leadership.