2020 WINTER NEWSLETTER - Naomi Braun on the Merits of the Training Department

As I look back on the 25 years that I have been with PEBCC as conductor of Girls Training 2, I am very proud of the growth that has occurred. PEBCC is one of the most comprehensive choral programs around. In our Training Department (boys and girls ages 6-13) we employ a Music Theory Specialist who works one on one with students, a Vocal Pedagogy Coach who gives short private lessons to all students in levels 2 and above, and a Choreographer who teaches movement to one song per group each semester. From the beginning, students are taught to use good vocal technique through the Kodaly method of teaching how to sing in tune. We focus on teaching interesting and varied music repertoire in a fun setting while learning important music concepts.

Another strength of our program is Camp Joyful Voices. It is a six-night sleep-away camp where PEBCC students (or students interested in joining PEBCC) get to learn songs they will be singing in the choir during the school year as well as lots of music theory all in the beautiful environment of Walker Creek Ranch.

At the end of each semester, our students get to perform in a small recital as well as a large concert. The confidence they gain from standing up and performing in front of an audience is unparalleled. All year, the students work on their performance etiquette (standing up straight with arms at their sides), watching the conductor at all times, breathing correctly, making beautiful music together as they work as a team, and most importantly having FUN. The culmination of this hard work can be seen at the Training Department Recitals on Saturday, May 16 (2pm and 5pm) and the Spring Sing on Saturday, May 30 (3 pm).

We have begun our spring enrollments for the 2019-2020 season. We believe arts education is an integral part of a child's development and the well being of human society. Please share it with friends and relatives. Thank you for being a part of our community.

Sincerely,

Naomi Braun

Training Department Director