This article is from the EMU News Archive. The approximate date of publication was in May 2003. Current EMU news is available at www.emu.edu/news
Choir Director Gets Note-worthy Award
Eastern Mennonite University has given a special recognition to the founder and artistic director of the widely-acclaimed Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir (SVCC).
Julia J. White of Harrisonburg is the first recipient of EMU’s "distinguished artist in residence" award in recognition of her 11 years of contributions to the university, the community and the larger world through her work with the children’s choir groups.
Beryl H. Brubaker, interim EMU president, made the surprise presentation during the choir’s spring gala and fund-raising auction held May 3 at the Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community.
"Your reputation as a children’s choir director is known nationally," Dr. Brubaker said in presenting the award. "You are known as one of the leading artists in this field, as evidenced by frequent invitations to direct honors choirs and conduct workshops for music teachers.
"To you, each child is a special individual," Brubaker continued. "Each one knows that you care about them and their potential. You broaden their horizons, raise their aspirations and make sure they have fun while working hard.
"We love what you have done for our children," she said. "The sound you coach the students to produce feels out of this world; we would say, heavenly. Beyond the music are the expressive motions and unique sounds that enhance the music and which students perform flawlessly. Excellence is your trademark."
Started in 1992, the SVCC has grown to include 190 participants in five choirs: Angel Choir (ages 6-8, levels I and II), Preparatory Choir (8-11), Treble Choir (10-15) and Concert Choir (11-18).
Monday evening choir rehearsals for the auditioned choirs include instruction in vocal production, diction, breathing, score study, solfege, theory, and performing skills. Singing a capella as well as in two to four parts, SVCC members experience a broad range of choral literature including classical music, folk songs of many countries and cultures, and sacred and secular songs with an emphasis on themes of love, peace, friendship and nature. All members are expected to complete weekly theory and memorization work.
The Kodaly method of sight singing is used at all levels of the choir program. Progression from choir to choir is based on vocal and skill level, commitment, and preparation. All members are encouraged to study an instrument privately as well as participate in church and school ensembles.
The Preparatory and Treble Choirs perform twice a year (Christmas and spring). The Concert Choir maintains a rigorous performing schedule, which includes local and out-of-town concerts and tours. The group has recorded several albums.
In recent years the choir has performed at the Tuscany International Children's Chorus Festival, Florence and Rome, Italy; Carnegie Hall, New York City; the National Christmas tree lighting ceremony, Washington, D.C.; White House Christmas Tours; the American Choral Directors Association Southern Division Convention, Orlando, Fla.; and the American Choral Directors Association Southern Division convention, Charlotte, N.C. The SVCC is part of the Preparatory Music Department at EMU.
Posted: May 8, 2003
