Contributed by Jessie Eddings, Director of Alaska Children's Choir
After a successful first year under new leadership, the Alaska Children's Choir is still making beautiful music with local singers. An organization with over thirty years of rich musical history, longtime owner and director Janet Stotts passed away last April, leading to a search for a new talented director. Shortly before the next season was about to begin, Jessie Eddings was announced as the new owner and director. A previous ACC alumna herself, Eddings dreams of growing the choir to its peak once more, aspiring to attain the same caliber and renown it has enjoyed over previous years.
As an auditioned ensemble, students are held to a high musical standard while exploring a common joy of singing. It is the goal of the organization that children be taught to love themselves and their music through quality choral education. Students can expect to learn upwards of fifteen songs each semester, including a variety of languages and styles, and from multiple eras. Children ages 5-18 are encouraged to audition and no previous musical training is required. Auditions for the 2016 fall semester are underway and will continue through mid-September. If students are interested, audition times can be reserved by contacting Eddings via email (alaskachildrenschoir@yahoo.com) or phone (907-982-5467).
Those involved in the choir can look forward to an exciting semester this fall season. Concert performances include the traditional full-length holiday concerts in both Anchorage and the valley, as well as the loved Anchorage Museum's Wells Fargo Day holiday event. In addition, the season will kick off with a short showcase at the Alaska State Fair on September 2nd. If you haven't had an opportunity to hear the choir yet, this would be a great time to come out and listen!
Perhaps the most exciting event this fall is the opportunity to collaborate with the famous pianist, David Benoit, in his holiday special, "A Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown." Students will have the treat of performing at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts with Benoit and his band on December 2nd and 3rd. This exclusive opportunity gives students the chance to work with other artists in a professional atmosphere and perform on what is perhaps one of the greatest stages in Alaska.
The Alaska Children's Choir invites the community to attend concerts and support their local youth. Any families who are interested in having their children join for this exciting season are encouraged to contact Eddings for an audition time (mailto:alaskachildrenschoir@yahoo.com or 907-982-5467).
There is also a website that includes information on tuition, rehearsal schedules, and general information (http://alaskachildrenscho.wix.com/alaskachildrenschoir). Check it out and consider supporting local youth by joining or attending a concert this season!