How can I keep from singing?  Unbelievably, it's been almost a year of living through the pandemic and all its challenges. Spectrum Youth Singers are still singing online. We are getting the hang of online learning and have accomplished  MUCH. Zoom CAN work for us and rather than limit us, our online format has brought exciting new learning opportunities! We have written a brand new song with composer Jim Papoulis from New York called "It's Time We Learn." The world premier will be coming...soon! We have connected with musicians and artists from places near and far: Singapore, Britain, Scotland, New York, Naperville, Plainfield.  And we have exciting connections in the works! During the holidays, we did our first online community service project. We have continued to work on the skills we would do at "normal" rehearsals: sight-reading, vocal technique, musicianship, listening, mindfulness. In addition to our group rehearsals, singers have received individual coaching with both our conductor and fabulous accompanist, and have become experts at recording themselves.  Most importantly, we have time to chat and have fun; our boys stick around after every rehearsal and play games together.  While the pandemic may have forced distance between us, it has not silenced us.  We have continued to sing, make music, and build community in new and creative ways.  "Through all the tumult and the strife," the song says, "how can I keep from singing?" Somehow, in a world none of us could have imagined a year ago, we've kept the song alive!  

During these unprecedented times, Spectrum Youth Singers will be keep our singers and staff healthy by providing online programming.  We realize the need for social interaction, self-expression, and providing a safe and positive environment. We have created an engaging and innovative program that will include group rehearsals, one-on-one coachings, and creative opportunities for learning, development, personal growth, and teamwork. We will also have dedicated time for socializing and fun. This is the time for creativity, flexibility, and embracing technology! We will  continue our online format until we can safely meet in person.  Can you imagine what the first in person rehearsal will be like? 

​We hope that you and your loved ones are safe during this health crisis.
Since March, the changes and disruptions to our normal lives have been difficult.  There is much uncertainty with the new way of living. We are grateful to be part of a world where everyone is doing what they can to keep people healthy.
We miss choir! We miss singing together! Spectrum Youth Singers (SYS) have been committed to helping youth stay connected, and more importantly, helping them feel positive and engaged in our new virtual world.  When the quarantine began,  SYS dived into online rehearsals and started navigating unchartered territory: choirs were not meant to practice remotely; we thrive on the energy between all of us and it is the group effort that makes our music.  Now, even though we are not standing side-by-side, we are together in a virtual room, doing what we enjoy: singing together and staying connected. We have learned much from this experience on many levels!
The last few months have shown that creativity cannot be stopped.  A few months ago, “virtual choirs” were rare.  Now, artists are finding innovative ways to perform and show their craft.  SYS is adapting to technology and establishing a new online program that will provide meaning and value to each child.  We know it will not be the same as gathering in person and it will have challenges.
With the creation of an online program, we can continue to provide all the elements we have provided before: training in vocal technique, music literacy and theory.  We can develop individual talent through one-on-one vocal coaching.  We can also embrace technology to connect directly with composers, artists, collaborate with other choirs, and have a virtual “bring-a-friend day” where you can bring a friend, even from Mexico or Canada!  We can socialize and have fun with our choir family.   
Should it be safe for us to rehearse in person in the Fall or later in the year, the online programming that is planned will be used to supplement our program. 
Spectrum Youth Singers will use the power of music to keep children and youth and our community connected.  This is a time for incredible creativity!  Together we will grow and be even more grateful for the life-changing experience of music.