Hometown Choir
Music Changes Lives
Working with the YMCA, we visit the after school programs at the six Charlottesville City Elementary Schools to teach music and movement activities. All students learn the same set of songs and join together as a large children’s choir – the “Hometown Choir” – to perform at community events and concerts.
Partner schools include Burnley-Moran, Clark, Greenbrier, Jackson-Via, Johnson, and Venable.
The Chorus America Study recently shared findings from a national survey of children in choruses. We’re so glad to share these benefits with the young music-makers in our Hometown Choir:
Children who sing in choruses get significantly better grades
- In Math, parents reported that 45% of singers got A’s and only 38% of non-singers got A’s.
- In English, 54% of singers got A’s and only 43% of non-singers received A’s.
Parents of choir member reported a significant increase in qualities conducive to learning and development.
- Good memory
- Good practice and homework habits
- High levels of creativity
- Better team players
- Advanced social skills
80% or more of educators say that choir participation makes students:
- Better participants in groups
- Helps develop stronger social skills
- Better emotional expression and management
- Improves overall academic performance
- Instills self-discipline and punctuality