Opportunities

Our current situation presents us with opportunities to do things we wouldn't normally do, or haven't done yet. We can take this time to think outside the box, expand our horizons, and strive to become more relevant in our communities and beyond.

Strive for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

  • With the murder of George Floyd in May, the country has begun to look inward and self-examine in a more significant way, and then to act and demand change. Choral arts organizations are asking the same questions and working to enact real change in our community: How have we helped to create and perpetuate societal ills and systemic racism and oppression, and how can we meet the current challenge to do better?

  • The Western Division ACDA published this guide to Social Justice Resources. It includes some of the following resources.

  • Black Voices Matter Pledge to program both idiomatic and non-idiomatic music composed and arranged by composers of color.

  • Marques Garrett's growing list of Non-Idiomatic music by African American composers can be found here.

  • The Choral Commons is a new organization that is actively looking into issues of equity and social justice in the choral world.

  • Consider partnering with a local organization that serves a social justice mission. Don't just refer to them or raise money in an online broadcast, but really work with them. Volunteer for them, have a speaker from their organization speak to your group, develop a lasting relationship. And yes, do raise money for them too. Of course, always ask them how you can serve them before assuming they want to partner with you, and find out how you can serve them instead of the other way around! Include video of their work or the work you do together in a virtual choir project.

Strengthen Your Skills

  • Develop musicianship skills

  • Expand knowledge of music theory

  • Learn IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet)

  • Develop vocal technique in masterclasses or online lessons

Invite Guest Speakers and Conductors

  • Always wanted to work with someone who was too far away or you didn't have the funds for travel and housing? Invite them to work with your ensemble online!

  • Invite experts in areas of the choral art that will expand your singers' knowledge and skills.

  • Invite someone who specializes in the region or culture of a piece you're preparing. They can help you create a more authentic connection to the music.

  • Invite the composer and/or librettist of a piece you're preparing to speak.

Showcase Your Musicians' Talents

Create a performance series in which singers can perform. When Sacred & Profane did this, we heard musical performances that included family members, music of several genres, pre-recorded and live, and so on. It was a delightful way to get to know, celebrate, and strengthen our diverse community of musicians.