Building Support, One Concert at a Time

Last year about this time in a column called “Choral Quid Pro Quo,” we discussed some ways in which choral directors can get a little something tangible in return for the many “freebie” holiday performances they give throughout their local area.

 

This year, consider trading your performances for demonstrative gestures of community support for music in the schools.

 

If the Kiwanis club wants you . . . they get to place an ad in the paper extolling the value of music education.  If the successful medical practice wants a show . . . tell ‘em you’ll take a billboard on the busiest street in town, thanks!  If you’re going to sing for the staff at the local “50s diner” during the holiday . . . their paper place mats will feature the choir for the next month.  Certainly, then ALL of them will be expected to write a letter to your superiors (with a “cc” to you, of course) on the importance of your program to the life of the local community.  The possibilities are limitless!

 

Given the continued assault on the arts by school administrators, visible statements of support from your community are worth their weight in gold.