• What is PDX Vox?
• What makes PDX Vox unique among singing groups and music classes?
• Who directs PDX Vox?

What is the History of PDX Vox?

PDX Vox was started in September 2004 by Marie Schumacher. In her many experiences as a performer and a teacher, Marie met countless people who wanted to be singing, but hadn't found the right setting for their creative energy. In particular, it seemed that many people remembered musical experiences from the past with great fondness, but had stopped singing and struggled to fit music back into their busy lives of responsibility.

Marie had taught in several settings, but it wasn't until she worked as an instructor at the Cazadero Performing Arts Camp for Families that she saw the power of bringing "wayward singers" back to their musical passion. "In our culture, many people feel that if they can't do something at an intense, professional level, that they shouldn't do it at all," says Marie. "This leads a lot of people to abandon activities that give them tremendous joy and energy. I'm committed to the idea that music, and any other passion, can be integrated into a busy life, and become a meaningful, fulfilling, and powerful endeavor."

In creating a singing group, Marie decided to play to her strengths and build on her own background in contemporary a cappella. She managed and directed the Opportunes, a co-ed a cappella group the Opportunes, at Harvard University, in the mid-80's, Within that context, she learned music theory, conducting and vocal arrangement, and the a cappella scene became her central focus and her passion while in college. This experience, coupled with her private study in voice, piano, and guitar, helped build a strong musical foundation for her work in music education.

After moving to the West Coast, Marie learned that a cappella groups were not as easy to come by, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. "Contemporary a cappella singing is a natural fit for Portland, a city filled with music lovers and musicians of all kinds - and people who seek to try something new. And a cappella has a slightly quirky and unusual way about it - it requires hearing music a little differently, and it helps to approach the music with a light heart and a sense of humor." Thus, PDX Vox was born in Portland in September 2004, and it has been growing steadily ever since.

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