The Southwest Choral Symposium brings together singers from Arizona and the West Coast to learn from Russian Orthodox music experts, enriching and strengthening Russian Orthodox liturgical music traditions. With a special focus on small choirs singing in English, the symposium offers three days of singing, workshops, lectures, and services. Organized by the Tucson parish of the Kursk Root Icon and graciously hosted by Christ the Savior Orthodox Church in Youngtown, Arizona, the event will also celebrate the memory of the Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia.
What to expect
- Two full workshop days (February 6 & 7) following a travel and fellowship day on February 5.
- Keynote address
- Hands-on rehearsals leading to Saturday night Vigil for the Russian New Martyrs.
- Sunday morning Divine Liturgy sung by our symposium participants.
- Breakout sessions and roundtable discussions on topics including:
- Liturgical music selection
- Arrangement and harmonization
- Typicon
- Conducting
- Style and performance
- Vocal technique and breathing
- Features and idiosyncrasies of the English language
- Choir member etiquette and responsibilities
- Honoring local and wider traditions
This is not a retreat or conference—it is a working symposium, designed to help participants grow in musical competency, leadership, and liturgical understanding, grounded in the tradition of the Russian Orthodox Church. All active church singers are welcome, irrespective of experience and skill level.
Event details
- Dates:
February 5 – Travel and fellowship (introductions and dinner)
February 6 & 7 – Workshop days (Vigil on Saturday night)
February 8 – Divine Liturgy, meal, and farewell - Location:
Christ the Savior Orthodox Church
Youngtown, Arizona - Registration:
$175 per person ($200 after January 11)
Meals are included with registration - Accommodations will need to be made by participants at a nearby hotel. We recommended one of the following:
- Best Western Plus Surprise-Phoenix NW
13337 West Grand Avenue, Surprise, AZ 85374 - Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix-Surprise
14783 W Grand Ave, Surprise, AZ 85374
- Best Western Plus Surprise-Phoenix NW
- Event schedule: (coming soon)
- Click the Register button on this page for sign-up and payment
FAQ
Is the symposium geared more toward choir directors or singers?
The event is primarily for singers. However, one of the optional workshops will focus on conducting.
How many people are you expecting to participate?
We hope for between 50 and 70 participants. We’re looking forward to having antiphonal choirs.
Is there a limit on how many people can come from one church/mission?
No limit. But since this is for small choirs, we expect most parishes to send a few people each. If you plan on sending five or more, please reach out to discuss a bulk discount.
I have dietary restrictions. How do I ensure that there’ll be something that I can eat?
As part of the registration process, there is a question about dietary restrictions. Please add details there and we’ll reach out to you if we have questions.
I have further questions, who do I contact?
Please contact Fr. Daniil Millwood.
frdaniil@kurskrootroc.com | 425 697 0243
