Music of the Baroque conducts "Strong Voices," an arts education initiative designed to support and enhance choral programs at Chicago public high schools.
Focused on students interested in musical study who lack the resources to pursue their aspirations, "Strong Voices" combines individual and group vocal instruction by Music of the Baroque chorus members with exposure to high-quality musical performances.
Teaching artists work with chorus directors in partner schools to create individualized programs that fit each school’s needs, selecting from a range of activities including private voice lessons, small group vocal instruction and choral coaching, master classes, and several other types of in-school events. All activities, as well as teaching materials developed and produced by Music of the Baroque, are offered at no cost to students.
The program impacts young musicians’ lives in many different ways. Students learn proper vocal technique, improve their performance skills, and increase their familiarity with classical repertoire. The program’s influence reaches outside the chorus room as well. Students report that the sense of accomplishment gained through participating in music helps them in other classes, while interpersonal skills such as working as a team and understanding individual responsibility extend to team sports, after-school activities, and relationships with friends and family.
Music of the Baroque currently works with five partner schools—Hubbard High School, Kelly High School, Lake View High School, Lane Technical High School, and Lindblom Math and Science Academy. For more information, contact Music of the Baroque staff member John Ryan.
Music of the Baroque's 2010–11 "Strong Voices" program was generously supported by the Chicago Community Trust, Polk Bros. Foundation, Lloyd A. Fry Foundation, and Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation.
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