Founded in 1934, the Appleton MacDowell Male Chorus, Inc. took the name of a noted American composer, Edward MacDowell. The first concert in 1935 was presented under the baton of its founder Albert A. Glockzin, music teacher at Lawrence University. 

Since 1934, MacDowell has performed more than 500 times in over 50 different cities in five of the continental states and in Canada. The chorus has appeared several times on television and radio. Memorized music is a MacDowell tradition and the men have over 500 religious and patriotic numbers, show tunes, operatic and classical selections and fun pieces in their repertoire.

In addition to the traditional tuxedoes, the men of MacDowell have appeared on stage in cowboy outfits, sailor's uniforms and choir robes.

One of the highlights of MacDowell's first half century was the 1976 bicentennial year performance of "I Love America" with Chaminade Women's Chorus. It was difficult to find a rehearsal hall large enough to accommodate the 200-voice ensemble. Three scheduled performances were sold out almost the day the tickets became available. Two additional shows at the Lawrence University Memorial Chapel were needed to satisfy the public demand.

For many years MacDowell held membership in the National Association of Male Choruses, the Associated Glee Clubs of America, and the National Association of Music Clubs. The chorus reluctantly ended its national affiliations in 1974.

Chorus membership at the initial concert in 1935 was 42. Current membership averages between 80 and 100 men. For many years a single Appleton performance was sufficient. Two home concerts first were presented in 1969 as more people sought tickets. In the early '80s, three shows sold out, and since 1984 the chorus has sung four home concerts - generally in April / May.

The MacDowell Chorus also performs in Fox Cities' area churches, a practice begun in 1966. The men "give the church choirs a break" at half a dozen or so churches each spring. In addition, several concerts are held out-of-town.

MacDowell means fun. Each Valentines Day there is a formal dinner-dance. The chorus sponsors a traditional fall picnic for it existing and prospective members and there is the annual dinner/business meeting in spring. Much-loved afterglows often follow concert performances.

The most memorable moments in MacDowell are:

~ Singing "The Lost Chord" with 1,500 men at the International Big Sing at S. Bend, IN
~ Collaborating in "I Love America" with Chaminade Women's Chorus
~ Just being part of it when chorus, drums, brass, piano, organ and audience all join for the final refrain of "Battle Hymn of the Republic."

The MacDowell Male Chorus is incorporated as a nonprofit organization. It is governed by a board of directors consisting of the officers and two directors, elected by the membership at the annual dinner/business meeting in May.

Membership in MacDowell Male Chorus is open to all post-high school males who enjoy singing. Neither formal training nor an ability to sight read music are required. However, the men must be able to carry a tune. Individual auditions are held each September at the first rehearsals.

MacDowell has an ongoing scholarship program with awards given to outstanding young musicians from the Fox Valley area high schools.