Ensembles
Students attending Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College have several options for participating in musical ensembles. Some of our students choose to sing with Chorale, a choir which is open to any student and whose composition is flexible in creating the highest quality experience for the specific student participants each semester. The historic and award-winning Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Madrigals is an auditioned treble vocal ensemble that allows students to sing in a more intimate setting, often focusing on a cappella works. Both our vocal ensembles strive to create a culture of excellence within a strong sense of community.
For students who play instruments, there are a few options as well. First, the Terre Haute Community Band and Sinfonietta Pops Orchestra reside in the Conservatory of Music at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, allowing distinct opportunities to play with an ensemble. Second, the bands and orchestra at nearby Indiana State University also welcome students to join their ensembles as possible.
How do the ensembles enhance the Woods experience?
The ensembles at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College tend to reach and enhance the lives of all constituents of the College community. Because they offer public concerts, sing for masses, sing and play for multiple college functions such as Ring Day, and for events in the Terre Haute community and beyond, they are constantly interacting musically and enriching the lives of others.
Why should you choose the Woods and its ensembles over other schools?
There are many reasons to be a member of our musical ensembles!
First, there are many studies that indicate making music with others has positive health benefits, provides a sense of belonging, and helps offset feelings of loneliness. We have had many students who never experienced an ensemble and quickly come to love the experience once they try it.
Second, the two primary performance venues at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College are the Marie Brendan Harvey Auditorium and the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Both are historical venues offering aesthetic beauty and acoustic superiority. We are truly fortunate to be home to such beautiful spaces for music-making.
Third, our choirs offer significant scholarships for incoming students, up to as much as $24,000. For more information on auditioning for one of these scholarships, please reach to our director of choirs, Professor Michael Boswell at mboswell@smwc.edu.
What do you gain from being in the ensembles?
Many current studies indicate that making music with others has positive health benefits and helps people feel connected. This is important for all, but especially young people who are developing into adults in an ever-increasing digital world. We have had many students who never experienced an ensemble and quickly come to love the experience once they try it. At SMWC, we strive to bring people together through a common experience, such as making music.
Choral Ensembles
Sing with SMWC’s most beautiful voices by joining three choral ensembles at SMWC. The Madrigals, Chorale and Woods Vocal Ensemble perform at many significant events here and abroad.