FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are the pandemic protocols for the Elmhurst Choral Union concert?

Pandemic Safety Protocols:

In light of recent adjustments to Covid-19 recommendations from the CDC and the state of Illinois, Elmhurst Choral Union will not be requiring mask-wearing at Elmhurst Choral Union concerts or events.  Following the new guidance, we will also not be checking the vaccination status of attendees.  These are still uncertain times, so Elmhurst Choral Union reserves the right to make any adjustments should they need to be.  We thank you for your support of Elmhurst Choral Union.  Please be sure to visit our website regularly and prior to your arrival the day of the performance in the event there has been a change. 

Where is Hammerschmidt Chapel?

Hammerschmidt Chapel, our venue for December and April concerts, is on the west side of the Elmhurst University campus. Elmhurst University’s address is 190 Prospect, but the chapel is closer to the intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Myrtle. View our Hammerschmidt Chapel page for directions and a campus map.

Where should I park on campus?

The best parking is in the large lot of Alexander Boulevard, just west of Prospect Avenue. There is a sidewalk across the street that stretches along the west side of the football field to the chapel.

When should I arrive?

Our box office table and will-call table are in the entryway of Hammerschmidt Chapel and open at 2:15. Ushers start seating patrons at 2:30. You’ll be happy if you allow a few extra minutes to get from the parking lot on Alexander Boulevard to the chapel.

How can I buy tickets?

  • From our website
  • by phone at 800-838-3006
  • at the door
  • from an ECU singer (if you’re lucky enough to know one)

Will my tickets be mailed to me?

We hold online and phone orders at the will-call table.  Pick them up, starting at 2:15, using the ordering person’s last name. If you like, you can bring along the email receipt.

If you provided your email address when you ordered online or by phone, we’ll send you a reminder several days before the concert.

Where are my seats?

Hammerschmidt Chapel has padded pew seats.  All seating is general admission. Ushers open the doors to seating at 2:30.

How accessible is Hammerschmidt Chapel?

Accessible parking: Accessible parking near the chapel is limited. However, it’s possible to pull up and drop off passengers near the chapel’s accessible entrance ramp along the north side of the building.

Accessible entrance: The accessible entrance ramp, on the north side of the building, descends to a lower level entry. Once indoors, an elevator takes you to the front of the audience, main floor. Patrons using the accessible entrance and elevator may proceed directly to their chosen seats (even if it’s before 2:30). A companion or someone sitting nearby may present your ticket to an usher.

Accessible seating: Chapel seating is traditional padded pews. There is room for wheelchairs in the main level seating, on the extreme right or left at the very front. There is additional room at the back of the main floor, behind the last row of pews; padded chairs in that space can be moved or used by those enjoying the concert with you.  Visibility from those locations is a bit limited, but the music sounds great.

Accessible restrooms: Restrooms are on the lower level. From the audience’s view, go the the front right corner, through a doorway to the elevator. On arriving at the lower level, go right and through double doors to a hallway. Turn left into a long, wide hallway. When the hallway comes to a T, go left for the men’s restroom, go right for the women’s restroom.

Assisted hearing devices: Audience members with hearing impairments tell us that they hear the music well, but prefer an assisted hearing device to hear spoken announcements from the stage. Hammerschmidt Chapel has a supply of these devices; ask an usher if you’d like to use one.

If you have questions or need an accommodation, please let us know by submitting our contact form.

To buy a youth ticket, is a student ID necessary?

No ID is needed.

The ticket page says youth tickets are for those age 7-22. What about younger kids?

Kids 6 and under are free. However, some kids under 7 find it tiring to sit quietly for a 2 hour concert.

We want kids to enjoy going to concerts. If your child has the patience for us, then we are glad to have them join us.

What should I wear to the concert?

Whatever you like. ECU dresses up so you don’t have to. With its high ceilings, the chapel can be cool during the cold weather months.

Where can I go out for dinner after the concert?

The Elmhurst area has many great restaurants. Some of them sponsor our season, so check your concert program.

What’s Medley of Melodies?

It’s not your typical concert!  Our singers perform a variety of lighter fare in solos, duets, and small ensembles.

This casual evening takes place in a cozy venue: First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst, on the corner of York and Church Street.

Hear and see our singers in fun music, and meet them afterwards.

To make the music available to everyone, no ticket is needed.  We pass the hat.

First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst has an accessible entrance on the north side of the building, and a small elevator is available to anyone wishing the avoid the few inside steps.  An accessible restroom is on the main floor.

What’s Microwave Masterpieces?

Microwave Masterpieces might be the wildest thing we’ve ever done!

If you sing, join us in a 2.5 hour rehearsal of a choral masterwork.  Then perform it.

If you don’t sing, come for the performance, and then meet the singers to learn how they did it.

Our location is Immanuel Lutheran Church of Elmhurst, on Third and Michigan (1 block east of York).

Immanuel Lutheran Church has an accessible entrance facing the west end of its parking lot. Inside, just beyond the staircase is an elevator to the main level.