5th Street Children and Youth Chorus
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Director Melissa McInnes
Melissa will be training the youth in the art of singing and expression.
The first 8 week session starts on Oct. 16, 6:15 to 7:30
and every Monday ending on Dec. 4. They will be held at the
Collingwood Public Library Free Schools room on the ground floor
beside the back entrance.
Fee for the 8 weeks - $105
to be etransfered to ali@5thstreet.ca
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The first youth in a family pays full fee but any further member of the family only half ($52.-)
In cases where it is not affordable we will subsidize. The second 8 week session will start Jan. 24. and at the
conclusion will include a concert open to the public. Each participant must fill out the registration.
Joining a youth chorus and learning singing can offer numerous benefits for children and youth, both in terms of personal development and musical growth.
Here are some of the key advantages:
• Vocal Skills Development: Learning to sing in a structured environment allows children and youth to develop
their vocal skills, including pitch accuracy, tone quality, breath control, and vocal range. These skills can enhance
their overall musical abilities and serve as a foundation for any future musical pursuits.
• Musical Education: Youth choruses often provide a comprehensive musical education. Members learn about
music theory, notation, rhythm, harmony, and other fundamental concepts. This knowledge can be applied not
only to singing but also to playing instruments and understanding music in general.
• Ear Training: Singing in a chorus helps develop a keen sense of pitch and harmony. Children and youth learn to
listen to others around them, adjusting their own pitch and tone to blend with the group. This ear training can be
valuable for musicianship and teamwork.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Being part of a youth chorus teaches the importance of teamwork and
collaboration. Members must learn to blend their voices with others, follow a conductor's cues, and work together to create a unified and harmonious sound. These skills extend beyond music and are applicable to various areas of life.
• Self-Confidence: Performing in front of an audience can boost a child's self-confidence and self-esteem.
Overcoming stage fright and receiving positive feedback from performances can help build a strong sense of selfassurance.
• Discipline and Responsibility: Regular choir rehearsals and commitments to performances cultivate discipline and responsibility. Members learn to manage their time effectively, meet deadlines, and fulfill their responsibilities to the group.
• Cultural Exposure: Choral music often includes a diverse repertoire spanning various styles, languages, and
cultures. Children and youth are exposed to different musical traditions, fostering an appreciation for diversity and
broadening their cultural horizons.
• Expressiveness and Emotional Intelligence: Singing is an expressive art form that allows individuals to convey
emotions through music. By interpreting and conveying the emotions behind a piece of music, children and youth
develop emotional intelligence and empathy.
• Lifelong Skill: Singing is a skill that can be enjoyed throughout one's life. Whether as a hobby, a form of stress
relief, or a means of socializing, the ability to sing is a valuable and enjoyable asset.
• Social Interaction and Friendships: Joining a youth chorus provides an opportunity to make friends with similar
interests. Shared musical experiences and the camaraderie built during rehearsals and performances can lead to lasting friendships.
• Creative Outlet: Singing allows children and youth to express themselves creatively. They can explore different
genres, experiment with their voices, and even compose their own music, fostering a sense of individuality.
• Neurological and Cognitive Benefits: Singing and music training have been linked to various cognitive benefits,
including improved memory, language development, and spatial reasoning. These benefits can positively impact
academic performance and cognitive skills. In summary, joining a youth chorus and learning to sing offers a
holistic array of benefits, from musical skills and personal growth to social development and cognitive advantages. It's an enriching experience that can have a lasting positive impact on a child's life.
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