About the SVCC
-Lynette Long, parent
The Shenandoah Valley Children's Choir (SVCC) began in 1992 under the direction of artistic director and founder Julia J. White. In 15 years the program has grown to include 230 children in three auditioned choirs and five young children's classes:
- Beginners, Kindergarten age (non-audition)
- Explorers, ages 6 to 8 (levels I and II, non-audition)
- Preparatory Choir, ages 8 to 11
- Treble Choir, ages 10 to 15
- Concert Choir, ages 11 to 18
Instruction and Repertoire
The choirs rehearse on Monday evenings. Choristers receive instruction in vocal production, diction, breathing, score study, musicianship, theory, performing skills with a strong emphasis on the Kodaly approach, and singing a capella in two to four parts.
SVCC choristers 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 the message of love, peace, friendship and nature. All members are expected to complete weekly theory and memorization assignments.
Choir Progression
Progression from choir to choir is based on vocal and skill level, commitment and preparation. 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.
Recent Performances
In the past several years the choir has performed at:
- Carnegie Hall, New York City (2007)
- Heritage Festival for Advanced Treble Choirs, New York City (2006)
- Pacific Rim Children's Chorus Festival, Honolulu, Hawaii (2005)
- Children in Harmony Choral Festival, Honor Choir, Orlando, Florida (2004)
- Virginia Music Educators Association Conference, Norfolk, Virginia (2003)
- American Choral Directors Association Southern Division Convention, Charlotte, North Carolina (2002)
- Tuscany International Children's Chorus Festival, Florence and Rome, Italy (2001)
- American Choral Directors Association Southern Division Convention, Orlando, Florida (2000)
- White House Christmas Tours, Washington, D.C. (1999)
- Carnegie Hall, New York City (1998)
- Pageant of Peace, National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Washington, D.C. (1997)
Listen to a sample

