Face the Music, Face your Neighbor: Fostering a Culture of Compassion within the Choral Rehearsal and Beyond

Creating a safe and creative space within rehearsal for the discussion of social issues and the exploration of identity and community is no easy task, and yet it is one of the most important and rewarding aspects of choral leadership with youth. The Boston Children's Chorus (BCC) feels that it is our responsibility to empower our singers to not only notice, but also to value the differences that make our communities dynamic and vibrant. As such, the BCC developed a curriculum designed to foster the dual musical/social characteristics of flexibility, awareness, communication, and empowerment. In this workshop, participants will be invited to take part in a rich discussion with singers from the Boston Children's Chorus as we model strategies designed to transform individuals and communities by lifting up and celebrating difference.