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I think we all would agree that the sound of a child’s singing voice is one of the most beautiful and precious sounds on earth. To hear this natural instrument in its purest state is a very touching and inspiring experience. Reciprocally, the children who are creating these wonderful sounds are enriching their lives and receiving positive benefits to last a lifetime.
Studies show children who sing in choral ensembles are exposed to experiences which positively influence their social, emotional and academic life. As a music educator and choral director, I have witnessed this growth and joy year after year while working with my students. It is truly remarkable to see (and hear) a child producing such expressive and sophisticated music with their singing voices. As children learn and make music alongside their peers, they can enjoy the following benefits:
• Success for all types of learners: during a typical choral rehearsal, music is explored by utilizing multiple intelligences (i.e. visual/spatial, bodily/kinesthetic, logical/mathematical, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, verbal/linguistic, etc.)
• Improvement of literacy skills: there are many strong connections between reading the words of our favorite storybooks and reading a melodic phrase on a music staff. In addition, the natural flow of choral lyrics can greatly impact a student’s ability to become more fluid and fluent readers. Fluency is an integral part of successful reading
• Increased success and understanding of mathematics: music is filled with patterns, fractions, addition, subtraction, grouping, sequencing, etc.
• Children delve into their expressive side while exploring different emotions found in their song repertoire
• Choral music helps us learn to work cooperatively while strengthening our social skills to achieve a common goal
• Children build confidence as they learn to take risks, improve their talents, and perform for others
• Music has a naturally soothing and relaxing quality. It does wonders for our mind, body and spirit!
• Choral singing has been shown to improve memory, practice/homework habits, responsibility and creativity
Rehearsing and performing with a choir can generate an immense sense of accomplishment. These fun and rewarding memories will last a lifetime! I invite you to attend a demo session of our Advanced Choir at no cost to you. The demo takes place on December 2, 2010 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Hunterdon Academy of the Arts (4 Minneakoning Rd., Flemington, NJ 08822).
Erin Repsher, Conductor, Hunterdon Youth Choir
Hunterdon Academy of the Arts provides Music and Acting Lessons and Classes to students of all Ages and Levels of Ability. To offer you easy access to our services, we have two convenient locations--in Flemington and Lebanon--with large parking lots. We specialize in tailoring our instruction to your individual strengths to help you progress quickly and reach your goals.
4 Minneakoning Road
Flemington, NJ 08822
AND
148 Main Street
Lebanon, NJ 08833
P: (908) 782-4943