Olympia Choral Society

If there is any single event that best captures the essential character and commitment of the Olympia Choral Society, it is a performance that took place in September of 2002. The tragic events of September 11, 2001 had left a scar on every American soul. As the anniversary of that assault on America approached, momentum grew for a world-wide "rolling requiem" to commemorate those lost. The vision was that Mozart’s Requiem would be sung in every time zone during that 24 hour period. Director Terry Shaw responded and the Olympia Choral Society became the central core of a group of 133 singers from throughout the community. It was very likely the largest choral group ever assembled in the capitol of our state.

On the evening of September 11, 2002, the Washington Center for the Performing Arts was filled to its 1010 seat capacity. The crowd overflowed into the adjacent street and nearby Sylvester Park, where loudspeakers had been placed. At exactly 7:46 pm, the time assigned by the world-wide organization, the Olympia Chamber Orchestra sounded the opening notes of Mozart’s masterpiece, and 36 sopranos, 42 altos, 25 tenors, and 30 basses, joined in remembrance of those who died on that terrible day.

Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis.

Grant them eternal peace, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon them.

It was our fervent prayer, and perhaps our finest hour.