Girls and boys from 4th grade through high school are invited to take part in one of the five choruses that make up the Madison Children's Choir. Between 200 and 250 children participate annually. Auditions are required for placement. The main goal of the organization is for children to have fun singing and learn to enjoy various styles of music, although children who excel at singing also have an opportunity to maximize their talent. Each of the five choruses performs a formal concert at least twice a year.
Rehearsals are once a week.
Operating since 1938, the association sponsors a drum and bugle competition for each group every summer. Each year, the company mounts a touring production of abridged operas sung in English and performed by regional artists for young people who, in turn, perform some of the cameo roles. Schools who sponsor a performance are given detailed preparatory materials in advance. Recent productions include Hansel and Gretel , The Pirates Of Penzance and Sousa's El Capitain . Today, the company tours not only throughout the state but also in northern Illinois.