Our Mission Statement:
The Willamette Master Chorus exists to promote excellence in choral music through participation, education, and appreciation for the highest levels of performance of significant choral literature; through the training and encouragement of choral musicians; and by representing the Northwest in the national and international music communities.

The Choir:
The Willamette Master Chorus, the mid-valley’s premier auditioned choral ensemble, comprises 75 veteran professional and dedicated amateur musicians. Founded through a joint effort of Lutheran Fine Arts Center and Willamette University, the chorus brings to area audiences the finest in choral masterworks from the Renaissance through the 21st century. The Willamette Master Chorus has performed with the Salem Chamber Orchestra, Oregon Symphony, and Portland Youth Philharmonic. National and international performances include a three nation tour in Europe, San Francisco, and most recently as the choir-in-residence for the International Cathedral Music Festival in Salisbury, England.

Dr. Paul Klemme, Music Director:
Paul Klemme is presently in his ninth year as Director of the Willamette Master Chorus. His full-time position is Director of Music Ministries at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Salem, Oregon, where he conducts four choirs and serves as parish organist. He completed his Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Washington and was a member of the Washington State University faculty from 1988-1997. He also served as conductor of the Washington-Idaho Symphony Chorale in Pullman, Washington from 1990-1996 and the Spokane Symphony Chorale from 1997-1998. In addition to his busy schedule of organ performances, he is a member of Oregon Bach Festival Chorus. He is a member of the adjunct faculty at Willamette University where he directs Male Ensemble Willamette and teaches organ.