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Collaboration Spotlights

pants to ensure access to all. This includes operating Our Engagement Choirs meet weekly at partner
choirs that meet weekly in underserved communities schools throughout the school year for one-hour re-
(Las Estrellas Engagement Choirs) and hosting one- hearsals led by versatile and highly qualified conduc-
day choral festivals for singers from around the Tucson tors who have experience working with marginalized
community. As the program has grown over time, we communities. Participants are girls (grades 2–5), whose
are now able to connect with current and future music schools do not otherwise have a choir program onsite.
educators to offer a variety of support. This support is Participation ranges from twelve to twenty singers at
provided through visits by the TGC staff to schools at each location. Las Estrellas choirs sing a diverse rep-
no cost to the school (includes lessons and clinics), free ertoire that aims to reflect and validate both dominant
professional development sessions, and internships for and non-dominant singing styles and traditions in the
undergraduate University of Arizona music education Tucson community and the world.
students. Additionally, TGC recently launched a Mu-
sic Teacher Mentorship program aimed at increasing What is the most successful aspect of the project?
music teacher retention in Tucson. This new program
pairs an interested music teacher with a TGC staff When Dr. Marcela Molina became the TGC’s di-
member for bi-weekly observation with instructional rector in 2006, she developed a vision of creating op-
and/or curricular support. portunities for all girls in the Tucson area to experience

A 21st century program
for 21st century musicians.

The Choral Conducting program
at Peabody Conservatory offers
forward-thinking instruction and
hands-on training.
Beth Willer
Director of Choral Studies

• MM and GPD degrees offered
• Significant podium time with small and large
ensembles
• A balance of contemporary and historical repertoire
• Experience with vocal and instrumental ensembles
• Frequent collaborations with living composers
• Distinguished guest faculty Scott Metcalfe and
Edward Maclary
• Graduate Assistantships available

peabody.jhu.edu
667-208-6600

The Peabody Conservatory meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for domestic undergraduate
students, with no loans. Learn more: peabody.jhu.edu/NoLoans.

78 CHORAL JOURNAL October 2024 Volume 65 Number 3