The Central Oregon Mastersingers are celebrating 20 years. The choir, made up of 40 to 60 members, depending on the performance, is preparing for it’s next event, “Rooted in Song,” featuring vocalist and composer Moira Smiley. Her music is described as a blend of traditional folk, classical and jazz.
“For this concert, we’ll have about 50 singers, many of whom also form our smaller ensemble, the Chamber Voices,” Administrative Manager Stephanie Hutto told the Source.
To celebrate their anniversary, the Mastersingers commissioned a piece from Smiley called “Northern Flicker.”
“The text was written by Moira herself — partly in a van touring through the Montana mountains, and later at a window in view of fluttering aspen trees and clouds,” Hutto explains. “The piece reflects on time, memory and the powerful role of song in connecting people to the land and each other. The first verse has a haunting, folk-inspired feel, influenced by Ukrainian melodies… The chorus lifts us into joyful harmony, celebrating the human gifts of rhythm, melody and community.”
The second verse introduces the bird calls of the Northern Flicker and the Western Meadowlark.
During the week of the performance, which is Wednesday, Oct. 29, Smiley will visit local high schools to work with hundreds of students. About 50 of them will join her on stage at the Tower Theatre. The Dove String Quartet will also accompany Smiley and the Mastersingers, which is led by Artistic Director Christian Clark.
Hutto says that working with students and outreach within the community is key to the Mastersingers lasting two decades. “Throughout the year, we offer free performances, like caroling in the Old Mill and at the library, and we participate in events like the Bend Christmas Parade.”
She explains ultimately, the music is about providing a moving experience and a feeling of joy.
“We believe in the power of music to bring people together, and we strive to create musical experiences that feel meaningful and accessible.”
Central Oregon Mastersingers
“Rooted in Song”
Wed., Oct 29, 7pm
Tower Theatre
835 NW Wall St., Bend
centraloregonmastersingers.org/2025-2026-season.html
$24-$44 +$8 Historic Preservation Fee
This article appears in the Source October 23, 2025.
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