Pictured above, the Masterworks Chorale had the unique opportunity to sing in Oberdorf during a Wedding Ceremony

(The concerts were) wonderful. The massed choir performances in Salzburg and Wien were spectacular. I was particularly moved at the very first rehearsal in the Salzburger Dom with the massed choir, orchestra and soloists; it felt as though Mozart’s spirit had touched everyone in that cathedral. Our own performances were amazing as well. (Singing in) the wedding in Oberndorf was a special event for everyone present: the bride and groom insisted on taking pictures with the choir, and were extremely appreciative. The church choir festival performance in Prague was a wonderful experience, one in which we received a prolonged ovation. It is hard to decide which performance was the highlight of the trip.

All things considered, I think MCI is top notch. Everyone was straightforward, and honest: no one ever told me what they thought I wanted to hear. I can’t tell you how refreshing THAT is! I am so impressed with every person I had the pleasure of meeting. Laura Faubus was a true pleasure to work with and she saw to every request to the best of her ability. Dan Schwartz and Helmut did a good job of arranging for us to sing at the wedding. I loved the “outside the box” thinking that resulted in such a once-in-a-lifetime cultural opportunity for us!

Overall, my choir and I were very happy. Numerous members told me that this was a ‘life changing experience,’ and I must agree. Thanks to all of the MCI staff who worked so diligently setting up the venues for our musical performances, getting the musicians hired, and contracting two fine conductors such as Janos Czifra and Eph Ehly. Though I chose this festival in great part because of Eph’s reputation, I was absolutely captivated by the musicality and rehearsal technique of Janos Czifra, as were my choir members. I enjoyed being able to converse with so many wonderful people as the choir prepared in Salzburg, and I look forward to my next tour with you folks.

This was truly a life-changing experience for many of my singers, and you and all the folks at MCI made it happen!

Thanks again for a wonderful trip.

-Lou De La Rosa, West Valley College