Question 1

How do I join?

Accepted Answer

Scroll to the bottom of this page and click on one of the choirs to submit your enrollment request. Potential singers meet with director James W. Knox for vocal verification. Once approved, choir members enroll during the first and second rehearsals of each session.

Question 2

When and where are rehearsals?

Accepted Answer

Cascade Chorale - Holiday Magic 2026 First rehearsal: Tuesday, September 8, in Pence Hall. Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m.; rehearsal at 6 p.m.Tuesday, September 15, rehearsal at 6 p.m. in Pence Hall (no registration this day).  Tuesdays, September 22 and 29, registration at 5:30 p.m., rehearsals at 6 p.m.Tuesdays, October 6 - December 1, rehearsals at 6 p.m. in Pence Hall.Thursday, December 3 and Friday, December 4, dress rehearsals at the Tower Theatre.There will be additional Saturday rehearsals for blocking/staging.Concert: December 5 and 6 at the Tower Theatre.Click here for detailed rehearsal scheduleJazz CentralRegistration: Mondays, September 21 and 28, 2026, 5:30 pmRehearsals: Mondays, September 21 - November 30, 6:00-8:30 pmLocation: Pence Hall, COCC Bend campus, 2600 NW College Way
Next Concert: TBD

Question 3

What does it cost?

Accepted Answer

At each Cascade Chorale and Jazz Central session's first two rehearsals, choir members will complete registration for a one-credit COCC course. Payment can be made by credit card, Venmo, check or cash (bring exact change).

Seniors age 65 and older are eligible for a tuition waiver. To use the waiver, feel free print the form at the link above and bring it to the first rehearsal; blank tuition waiver forms will also be available at registration. Do not submit the form to Admissions and Records.

Returning Singer under 65 = $151.25 
(1 credit tuition $130, fees $21.25)
 
Returning Singer 65+ = $21.25 
(1 credit tuition $0, fees $21.25)
 
New Singer under 65 = $176.25 
(1 credit tuition $130, fees $21.25, new student registration fee $25)
 
New Singer 65+ = $46.25 
(1 credit tuition $0, fees $21.25, new student registration fee $25)

First-time members of Cascade Chorale must also purchase concert attire for around $100 that is worn for the December and March concerts. Alterations to newly-purchased concert attire may be necessary. Concert attire for Jazz Central costs $10 to $35.

Question 4

What is the commitment?

Accepted Answer

Members commit to singing in the concert for the session in which they are enrolled. They must attend the rehearsals leading up to the concert, usually between 8 and 12 rehearsals. Up to two absences are allowed per session, but the dress rehearsal is mandatory. Although not required to have the ability to read music, singers are expected to practice at home using the rehearsal tracks provided. Patience, practice, and a commitment to the learning process will help build the skills necessary to be a confident chorale member.

Question 5

What music is sung?

Accepted Answer

Music is selected by director James W. Knox. Each session of Cascade Chorale focuses on a different genre: holiday music is presented in December, the March concert focuses on embodied choral works and other classic music, and popular music is performed in May. The holiday concert usually includes at least one original composition by James W. Knox. Many Jazz Central songs are arranged by piano accompanist Jack Krouscup.

Question 6

What should I bring to rehearsals?

Accepted Answer

- Payment for registration is collected in person at one of the first few rehearsals. Payment can be made by check or cash, or use your phone to pay via QR code or Venmo.
- Black 1.5 inch 3-ring binder.
- Pencil for marking music (do not use a pen to mark music).
- Refillable water bottle (can be filled at the  water dispenser); travel mug for a hot beverage at the break, if desired.