Seeing a need for more local opportunities for young singers, The Bel Canto Youth Chorus of the Bach Choir of Bethlehem will host an Elementary Honor Choir Festival April 22 in Bethlehem.

Teachers are invited to bring singers in grades four through six to attend a day of rehearsing and performing exceptional choral music codirected by Guest Conductor Chaequan Anderson of the Princeton Girlchoir and Bel Canto Artistic Director Dr. Joy Hirokawa.

Additionally, six hours of professional development are available for music teachers at the event.

Clinicians will provide workshops in building community and equity in the choral classroom, innovative rehearsal techniques, and rehearsal observation.

Anderson has served as a conductor and clinician throughout the mid-Atlantic region in addition to his responsibilities as associate director of the Princeton Girlchoir and director of Middle School Choirs at Montclair Kimberly Academy.

Festival repertoire will include traditional Western choral music, contemporary styles, music in other languages and music taught in the aural/oral tradition.

“We know that many young singers are not able to afford to attend major honor choir festivals due to the cost,” Hirokawa said. “We hope that this festival will enable more singers to experience the thrill of singing with a high caliber large ensemble locally, under the direction of an inspiring conductor and at a cost their families can afford.”

Rehearsal tracks will be provided for the singers ahead of time.

There is a registration fee per student.

Scholarships are available.

To inquire about scholarships, contact belcanto@bach.org.

The Bel Canto Youth Chorus is auditioning new members for the 2023 spring term.

To register for the festival or youth chorus auditions or for more information about Bel Canto’s upcoming performances, visit bach.org.