[HANASHIR:7639] Re: Teen Choral Group

[Carol Boyd Leon <cbleon...>]

Debbie, I have a few months experience directing a new teen choir that is a 
Sunday morning 8th grade religious school elective at my temple; also, and I 
had included 9th-12th grade students in an adult volunteer choir at my old 
temple.  The teen choir has participated in a Junior Congregation Fri night 
service and at a relgious school Holocaust assembly.  The adult choir used 
to sing a few times a year at Fri night adult services.

I've found that teens are truly enthusiastic but also have a lot going on in 
their lives.  Last year, a soloist backed out at the last minute because he 
got a date to the prom!  Also, some are there for the music while others are 
there even more so for the comraderie.  A few sing well; others just like to 
sing, or like to be with their friends who sing.  I'm pleased they're 
willing to give Jewish music a chance.

On the light side, I laughed to myself when the teenage girls were preparing 
for their first performance.  Apparently, putting on makeup together in the 
rest room is an important part of that preparation!  (But that also 
indicates the seriousness with which they took their appearance on the 
bimah.)  The fact that they've got an interest in Jewish music is what 
pleases me.  For more detailed info about my experiences working with teens, 
please contact me privately.  Thanks!
-- Carol Boyd Leon
   Burke, VA

>Has anyone had experience forming and running a teen choral group at their 
>Synagogue?  I so, what has been your experience?  Any info would be 
>appreciated:  ages of teens, what types of music used, where the group 
>performs, etc.
>There is talk of trying this at my Synagogue and I'm wanting to know of 
>others' experiences.
>Thanks......Debbie Block

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