Virtual Overview

This season, Brooklyn Youth Chorus continues to offer exceptional programming that allows choristers to maintain a connection with each other and the Chorus. At this time Brooklyn Youth Chorus has announced it will continue to be completely virtual through Sunday, April 4. With the valuable experience gained and feedback gathered since we went virtual in March 2020, we have found that this format has given us the opportunity to expand choral music beyond the traditional confines of the rehearsal room and concert hall.

Based on the recommendations and guidance from the New York City Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control, we recognize that virtual learning, or some hybrid model of online and in-person classes, may need to be extended further into the spring semester. As conditions permit, we will look into holding small group rehearsals or meet-ups in spaces appropriately sized for social distancing.

Program Structure and Instruction

Levels 1-6 will require approximately the same time commitment as in previous years. However, during our virtual instruction period, class time will be divided in different ways to best take advantage of different learning styles and our virtual format.

Each Zoom rehearsal class will include vocal development work, using our trademarked Cross-Choral Training approach.
Group Zoom rehearsal time will also be spent preparing choral repertoire for virtual recording projects and longer-term performance goals. Some portion of this time may include splitting out into voice part groups for sectional work.
In addition to Zoom rehearsals, time will be designated each week for home practice and independent or partner work on special projects including recordings.

Divisions

Levels 1 and 2

One group rehearsal per week via Zoom (60 min/week). Class time will include
teacher-led and off-camera activities
Access to online resources for self-directed learning
Participation in virtual chorus presentations

Level 3

One group rehearsal per week via Zoom (90 min/week). Class time will include
teacher-led and off-camera activities
Access to online resources for self-directed learning
Participation in virtual chorus presentations

Level 4, 5, and 6 (Weekly Time Commitment – 2 Hours)

One group rehearsal per week via Zoom (90 min/week). Class time will include
teacher-led and off-camera activities
Self-directed learning activities and special projects (30 min/week)
Participation in virtual chorus presentations

Class Structure

During our virtual instruction period, class time will be split between three (3) different segments, which includes full group and small group instruction as well as a mix of online instruction and independent work.

The first segment of each rehearsal class will be vocal development work.
The remainder of the rehearsal will be spent preparing choral repertoire for virtual recording projects and longer-term performance goals. Some portion of this time may include splitting out into voice part groups for sectional work.
During the third component of each day, students will work in smaller groups, rotating through short classes in solo repertoire, music theory, and applied musicianship (sight singing and ear training). Additionally, a portion of time will be left open each week for independent or partner work on special projects, recording, and home study.

Integrating Technology (Levels 5 and 6 only)

We are excited to be able to offer our students instruction in working in digital music platforms for music notation, theory and ear training, and audio recording. The Soundtrap online recording studio makes it possible for students to experience part-work and harmonizing with classmates. Recording provides a wonderful tool for self- evaluation and teacher feedback in addition to creating virtual performances students can share. Students will also gain experience working in music notation programs such as Noteflight.

Performances

While it may be some time before we are able to perform standing side by side, there are still opportunities to participate in virtual chorus projects.

We have re-envisioned our annual winter concert as a Home for the Holidays virtual event, and are hopeful that we will be able to return to live performing for our year-end Spring Sings finale. More details to come!

Tuition and Financial Aid

Brooklyn Youth Chorus is committed to offering high-level chorus education to all who have a desire to sing, and we will continue to serve families regardless of their financial situation.

If your financial circumstances have changed, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We value having your child in our community and will be happy to discuss the variety of financial aid options available.

FAQs

How can a virtual chorus experience compare to singing in-person? Isn’t the point to sing together?

Those of us who sing truly understand part of what has been lost during the Covid-19 pandemic. Of course, our preference is to have adorable children singing together in-person each week. But singers are also a resilient group and we have completely re-envisioned our program to provide the same quality of vocal instruction and music education in a virtual environment. And we will be providing numerous opportunities for choristers to express themselves and sing together while we remain virtual.

What is the minimum technology I will need to participate in Virtual Programming?

At the minimum, you will need a phone, tablet, or computer with the Zoom app installed and a good internet connection (wireless or wifi) that can handle live video.

I’m worried that my child will be sitting in front of a screen for too long. What is it like to participate in a virtual rehearsal with BYC?

When we train singers, we train their full bodies, not just their voices. All rehearsals begin with active stretching and warm-ups. Students will be asked to hold correct posture, stand when needed, and be generally active during each rehearsal.

Will my child be able to socialize with other students?

While rehearsals are primarily times for learning, there will be opportunities at the beginning and end of each rehearsal for socializing. Students will also participate in activities that encourage group participation. And we hope to create opportunities throughout the year for purely social activity.