Education and Community Partnerships

VocalEssence lifts up the choral arts, not only through innovative programming in our concerts, but also through our deep engagement with community.  Through educational programs and partnerships, VocalEssence “strives to inspire learners of all ages,” promoting cultural diversity and tolerance, showcasing new music by today’s composers and providing positive role models for young people.

2011-2012 Community Engagement Highlights

October 7, 2011:  Community Sing: Sigrid Johnson – Music for Women’s Voices                                   

October 10-14, 2011: ¡Cantaré! Composer Residency #1       

November 13, 2011: Community Sing: Philip Brunelle – Minnesota Music     

December 3-11, 2011:Welcome Christmas! Carol Contest world premieres 

January-March 2012: Talented Tenth Apprentice Program @ South High School

January 17, 2012: WITNESS Open Rehearsal with Hannibal Lokumbe                     

February 27-March 10, 2012: ¡Cantaré! Composer Residency #2

April 26-28, 2012: Essentially Choral

May 14-22, 2012: ¡Cantaré! Composer Residency #3   

May 22, 2012: ¡Cantaré! Community Concert

 

Exploring Culture through Music

The Guest Artist Series – Collaborating with universities, corporations, high schools and community groups to present a range of public events featuring VocalEssence guest performers and composers.

Elder Learning – Interactively exploring the featured music on selected VocalEssence concerts in partnership with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Minnesota.

Concert Conversations – Presenting interviews with performers, composers or experts designed to offer personal or historical insights into the music on each season concert.

 

Enriching the Choral Art

Talented Tenth Apprentice Program – Fostering lifelong singers through side-by-side vocal apprenticeships within the VocalEssence Chorus for high school students from culturally diverse backgrounds.

 

Encouraging Creativity

Award for Creative Programming – Rewarding adventurous programming and affirming the importance of quality secondary and college choral training throughout Minnesota with an annual cash prize. Co-presented by the American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota.


For more information, contact VocalEssence Director of Community Engagement, Kimberly Meisten, at 612-547-1456 (kmeisten@vocalessence.org).