Business Details
37 Years
experience
Portland Symphonic Girlchoir | Empowering Young Voices in Portland
Founded in 1989, Portland Symphonic Girlchoir has established itself as a premier youth choral organization dedicated to nurturing artistic excellence and fostering inclusive community through music. Under the leadership of co-conductors Roberta Q. Jackson and Debra D. Burgess, we provide transformative choral education and performance opportunities for girls and young women aged 8-18. Our four progressive ensembles unite singers from over 90 schools across Portland and Southwest Washington, emphasizing collaboration over competition. With 36 seasons of innovation, we have premiered 47 original compositions and received national recognition, including the Chorus America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. Our alumnae network of 2,000+ members continues to make an impact globally, carrying forward the values of artistic integrity and community.We maintain rigorous artistic standards while ensuring accessibility through tuition assistance programs, and our annual commissions expand the treble chorus repertoire. The organization's unique co-conductor model and partnerships with professional musicians create unparalleled learning experiences. Through local performances, national tours, and international engagements, we empower young artists to develop their distinct voices. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures every singer finds belonging in our supportive environment. The 2024 Carnegie Hall performance featuring current members and alumnae exemplifies our ongoing legacy of excellence.
Services
Choral Education Programs
Performance Opportunities
Tuition Assistance
Commissioning New Music
Alumnae Network
International Tours
Community Concerts
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We offer 36 years of excellence in youth choral education with nationally recognized conductors
- Our unique co-conductor model fosters collaborative learning environments
- We commission two new musical works annually to expand treble chorus repertoire
- We maintain a 2,000+ alumnae network supporting ongoing artistic development
- Our inclusive community welcomes singers from over 90 regional schools
Services
Choral Education Programs
Our progressive choral education programs develop vocal technique, music literacy, and performance skills through four ensemble levels. Singers receive expert instruction from nationally recognized conductors and professional accompanists. The curriculum emphasizes artistic growth, collaborative learning, and musical diversity while fostering confidence and lifelong friendships.
Performance Opportunities
We provide diverse performance experiences including annual community concerts, regional festivals, and international tours. Our singers have graced stages at Carnegie Hall and participated in national choral conferences. Each season features premieres of commissioned works and collaborations with professional musicians, offering unparalleled exposure to varied musical traditions.
Tuition Assistance
Our tuition assistance program ensures accessibility for all qualified singers regardless of financial circumstances. Need-based support maintains our inclusive community philosophy. The program is funded through donations and allows us to maintain socioeconomic diversity while upholding artistic standards across all ensemble levels.
Commissioning New Music
Annual commissioning of original works expands the treble chorus repertoire and supports contemporary composers. This program has produced 47 world premieres since our founding. Collaborations with composers include workshops and residencies, giving singers direct engagement with the creative process and exposure to modern musical techniques.
Alumnae Network
Our 2,000+ member alumnae network provides ongoing support for former singers through performance opportunities and mentorship. The community fosters lifelong connections while promoting leadership development. Alumnae participation in concerts and events maintains continuity with current ensembles and demonstrates long-term benefits of the program.
People
Roberta Q. Jackson
Co-Conductor
Roberta Q. Jackson is an award-winning choral conductor with over three decades of experience developing youth vocal talent. She has led Portland Symphonic Girlchoir since its founding, emphasizing artistic excellence and collaborative learning. Her leadership has earned national recognition for the organization.
Debra D. Burgess
Co-Conductor
Debra D. Burgess brings extensive choral education expertise to her role as co-conductor. She has shaped the organization's progressive ensemble structure and developed its commissioning program. Her collaborative approach has been instrumental in maintaining the group's artistic innovation since its founding.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We accept girls and young women aged 8-18 through four progressive ensemble levels.
How can I audition for Girlchoir?
Auditions are held annually in August. Visit our website for specific dates and registration details.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, we provide need-based tuition assistance to ensure accessibility for all qualified singers.
What performance opportunities exist?
Our singers perform in annual community concerts, regional festivals, and international tours, including past appearances at Carnegie Hall.
How is Girlchoir funded?
We operate as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded through tuition (50%), donations, and grants from community supporters.
Can alumnae stay involved?
Yes, our 2,000+ alumnae maintain connections through performance opportunities and mentorship programs.
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