Boundary Waters Choral Festival
An enriching choral experience nestled in the heart of the wilderness. Join us for a journey of vocal excellence and community harmony.
Choral Excellence in the Heart of the Wilderness
The Boundary Waters Choral Festival is more than a gathering; it's a transformative musical experience set against the serene beauty of the Minnesota wilderness. Our mission is to foster a lifelong passion for choral arts by surrounding local and regional singers with choral excellence and collegiate-level direction. We believe that vocal music has the power to harmonize communities, bridging local talent with professional artistry in one of the world's most unique natural landscapes.
Coming together from many places
to create
One Unified Voice!
The Boundary Waters Choral Festival brings together choirs from smaller schools across northeast Minnesota for a day of collaborative rehearsal and performance. By singing in large combined ensembles, students experience the power, depth, and emotion of making music alongside more than
one hundred voices.
Featured Clinicians & Repertoire
Meet the visionary conductors and explore the masterworks defining this year's festival experience.
2026 Selection
- Gjeilo: Sunrise Mass
- Whitacre: Water Night
- Palestrina: Sicut Cervus
- Copland: Zion's Walls
- Elder: Luminous Night of the Soul
Dr. Matthew Olson
Marcus Thorne
Dr. Matthew Olson is a distinguished choral educator and conductor specializing in contemporary Nordic repertoire and vocal artistry. With a passion for mentorship, he invites singers to refine their technique and explore expressive musical depths within our unique wilderness setting.
Renowned specialist in Renaissance polyphony and historical performance practice, bringing timeless works to the edge of the Boundary Waters.
Festival Registration
Join the Song
Why Attend the Festival?
• Musical Excellence & Growth
• Networking & Community Connections
• Immersive Wilderness Experience
The Boundary Waters Choral Festival is more than a concert; it's a transformative journey where music meets the wild. Join fellow singers to refine your craft under world-class clinicians while surrounded by the serene majesty of northern Minnesota. Whether you are seeking artistic inspiration or community connection, this festival offers a uniquely restorative space to raise your voice.