Saturday, September 20, 2025

Join 8th grade and high school singers from across Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington for an inspiring (and FREE) day of music-making with internationally renowned conductor and composer Dr. Marques L.A. Garrett.

We're honored to welcome Dr. Garrett—renowned conductor, composer, and leading voice in choral music—as the 2025 Choral Ascend Honor Choir clinician. His presence marks a rare opportunity for singers to work with one of the most respected educators in the field.

Known for his dynamic artistry and brilliant compositional voice, Marques will lead singers through engaging and powerful repertoire, culminating in an unforgettable final performance at the stunning Trinity Episcopal Cathedral.

This year's festival features guest artists from Choral Arts Ensemble providing mentorship and professional artistry to elevate the experience even further.

Registration is now full, but will reopen at end of summer should spots open up. For immediate questions, please reach out via email at info@pacificyouthchoir.org.

Dr. Marques L. A. Garrett conducting

Educator Workshops

FREE Educator Workshops: Choral Ascend includes three no-cost music educator clinics alongside student rehearsals. Led by Dr. Garrett, 2025 National ACDA Honor Choir Conductor Chris Maunu, and more, these sessions provide fresh classroom ideas, innovative choral pedagogy, and repertoire sharing. Earn re-licensure hours while connecting with colleagues!

Event Schedule

Honor Choir Schedule

9:30 - 10:00 am
Student Arrival and Registration
10:00 - 12:00 pm
Rehearsal 1
12:00 - 12:45 pm
Lunch
12:45 - 1:50 pm
Rehearsal 2
1:50 - 2:00 pm
Break
2:00 - 2:15 pm
Choral Arts Ensemble: Introduction & Demonstration
2:15 - 3:50 pm
Rehearsal 3 with CAE Integration
3:50 - 4:00 pm
Break
4:00 - 4:40 pm
Dress Rehearsal
4:40 - 5:00 pm
House opens and students final break before performance
5:00 - 5:45 pm
Final Performance featuring honor choir and CAE

Educator Sessions

11:00 - 11:50 am
The Intentional Choral Rehearsal: Process in Action
1:00 - 1:50 pm
Clinic 2 TBA
2:00 - 2:50 pm
The Choral Unfold: An Immersive Reading Session
Music education session

Festival Repertoire

Each participating singer will be provided repertoire for the event.

THE GIFT TO SING
Marques L. A. Garrett
View Sheet Music
I AM HOME
Hugo Madera
View Sheet Music
I BELIEVE
Mark A. Miller
View Sheet Music
WHO I WANT TO BE
Coty Raven Morris & Saleel Menon
View Sheet Music