Masterworks Choral Ensemble is offering two free vocal workshops in downtown Olympia next month, opening its rehearsal space to anyone curious about singing.

The sessions, called "Open Sing," take place on Tuesday, August 4, and Tuesday, August 11, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Great Hall at First United Methodist Church of Olympia, 1224 Legion Way SE. No experience is required, and no one will be asked to sing alone.

What to expect

Each 90-minute evening includes vocal warm-ups, breathing exercises, techniques for improving tone and pitch, and group singing focused on healthy vocal habits. Afterward, attendees can stick around for a 30-minute meet-and-greet with light refreshments.

Ben Luedcke, Masterworks' artistic director and conductor, leads both sessions. Luedcke conducted his first season with the ensemble in 2023-24 and is finishing a Doctorate of Musical Arts in choral conducting at the University of Washington. Before joining MCE, he founded and led Madison Summer Choir in Wisconsin for a decade.

How to attend

Admission is free. Registration through Eventbrite is required so organizers can prepare enough materials and refreshments. Attendees should bring a water bottle and come ready to sing.

The Great Hall is in the church basement. Enter through the west entrance facing the side parking lot, between 5th Avenue SE and Legion Way SE.

The event is not religious in nature. Organizers note on the Eventbrite listing that the church hosts MCE because large, affordable rehearsal spaces are hard to find.

Open Sing is intended for adults, though participants as young as 16 are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

About Masterworks

Masterworks Choral Ensemble has been part of Olympia's arts community since 1981. Its members come from Thurston, Mason, Pierce, and Grays Harbor counties, and the group rehearses on Tuesday evenings from mid-August through mid-June.

MCE performs its concerts at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts and has participated in local events including Lakefair, Arts Walk, and Harbor Days.

The Open Sing workshops fall just before MCE's regular rehearsal season begins in mid-August, offering a low-pressure way for curious singers to meet the group.

Registration is available at eventbrite.com/e/open-sing-free-voice-workshop-tickets-1995038647299.