The Des Moines Vocal Arts Ensemble

About DMVAE

The Des Moines Vocal Arts Ensemble, [501(c)(3) organization] was formed in the spring of 1992 with the vision of promoting excellent choral performance. The primary goal of the Vocal Arts Ensemble is to bring to the community a variety of serious choral musical styles within a chamber choir setting. The choir is intended to create a special opportunity for serious musicians who desire an intense and concentrated investigation of the repertoire. Emphasis of the DMVAE is placed on individual commitment and dedication to quality choral music education, group dynamic responsibilities and individual/ensemble professional development.

The Des Moines Vocal Arts Ensemble seeks to be a positive part of a vibrant cultural life in the greater Des Moines area. The DMVAE engages school and college students to share learning and performing experiences with internationally known conductors such as Robert Sund, Ken Fleet, Sandra Snow, and numerous others in Des Moines, and the Ensemble participates in community initiatives which have included the World Food Prize, Thresholds Music Festival, the 150th Anniversary of St. Ambrose Cathedral, the 20th Anniversary of the Plymouth Fine Arts Series, the inaugural season of the Grace United Methodist Choral Series, and Memorial Concerts for Veterans. The Des Moines Vocal Arts Ensemble was selected by audition to perform for the 2004 regional convention of the American Choral Director’s Association.

Notable Quotes

"For close to twenty years the Des Moines Vocal Arts Ensemble has provided some of the most consistently intelligent and exciting music-making around."

- Bruce Carr
noted Des Moines music commentator