"One World, Many Voices" presented by Pensacola Children's Chorus

One World, Many Voices

MARCH 3, 2024

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF PENSACOLA

Sing Summer in the with the Pensacola Children’s Chorus

Pricing varies • Multi-camp discounts available NEW Optional YMCA aftercare available

SPOTLIGHT SERIES

June 17-21 Grades 1-6

DANCE INTENSIVE

June 18-22 Grades 7-12

JUMPSTART

Mondays June/July Grades 6-12

SUMMER FESTIVAL July29-Aug.3 Grades 1- 8

Scan the QR Code for more information

MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Welcome to ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES, a showcase of song that celebrates the beauty and wonder of the world around us. This concert gives voice to peoples from all across the globe and amplifies poignant messages that seek to inspire a stronger and just community. The 250 members of our Resident Choir Program have been working diligently for the past 8 weeks to bring this performance to life, and we could not be more excited!

This concert comes on the heels of a rather important event. Just over a week ago, members of Choraliers traveled northward to Louisville, Kentucky, to perform for the American Choral Directors Association. A performance invitation to sing for this illustrious group of choral directors is one of the highest honors a choir can receive. They moved the audience to tears of hope, sadness and joy. They are excited to present a part of that inspirational concert with you today.

That performance in Louisville and the one here today in Pensacola represent the very essence of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. They are a testament to what music can do. It can invite joy and laughter; nostalgia and grief; hope and determination. Music awakens every corner of the human spirit. And when many come together to create music, its impact can be transformational.

Still, there are many who view the arts as something of a commodity. The singers you’ll witness here today will likely disagree. And if you hear something that touches your heart and stirs your soul, then you understand that the arts are not something simply to enjoy— they are core to who we are.

Your presence here today signals that you share that vision. Thank you for supporting these young people—these incredibly brilliant musicians. Thank you for supporting arts in your community. Thank you for supporting the Pensacola Children’s Chorus.

Alex Gartner Artistic & Executive Director

OUR SPONSORS

Advanced Dental Concepts • Alpha-Lit Pensacola • Angelo’s Towing • Bear Family Foundation • Beggs & Lane, RLLP • Caldwell Associates Architects • Carver Darden Law • Center for Clergy Care & Education • Dr. Michael Riesberg, MD • Guardian Pharmacy • Jennifer Hoekstra & Srivatsa Gupta • Logo Motion Marketing • Novus Anesthesia Partners • Site & Utility, LCC • The Oar House • Truist

Special Thanks

MEET THE PENSACOLA CHILDREN’S CHORUS

1990

Susan and Allen Pote establish the Pensacola Symphony Children’s Chorus.

1992 The first Showtime performance was held at First Presbyterian Church.

1993 Choirs were restructured to form Festival (grades 4–5), Concert (6–8), and Ensemble, a select group formed from the ranks of Concert.

1994

1995

The Pensacola Children’s Chorus was officially established as an independent, not-for-profit organization.

The first Christmas on the Coast was held at the Saenger. Young Singers was established for high school-aged singers.

1997 PCC moved into its present home in the Margaret Moore Nickelsen Center on the campus of First Presbyterian Church in downtown Pensacola.

1998 PCC appeared on a national telecast of the Hour of Power at the Crystal Cathedral in California.

1999 Annual performances began for Evenings in Olde Seville in Pensacola’s Seville Square, which lasted for 10 years.

2000 Singers embarked on their first international tour to Europe. Choristers (grade 3) and Echo (grades 9–12) were added to PCC’s roster.

2001 The first concert that has been known as The Angels Sing, In Sacred Song, and One World, Many Voices were held.

2002 PCC performs in the East Room of the White House.

2004 Hurricane Ivan decimated Pensacola. PCC responded to the crisis with a performance of We Will Be a Shelter for Each Other, written by Allen Pote.

2005 Regular summer programs began.

2010 PCC celebrated its 20th Anniversary and welcomed many notable alumni, including Ashley Brown, Will Hedgecock, Katy Mixon, Brandi Russell, Abigail Spencer, and Hanan Tarabay.

2015

Susan and Allen Pote announced their retirement at the end of the 2015–2016 season, completing a tenure of 26 years.

2016 Alex Gartner, a native of Cincinnati, OH, was selected as the next Artistic Director after a national search.

Susan and Allen Pote were honored by the establishment of an endowment fund in their name.

2017 The Ambassador Choir was established to meet the growing demand for PCC’s participation in community events.

2019 Preparatory (grades 1–2) was added to the PCC roster. High school choirs were reorganized to include Choraliers (treble voices) and Chorale (changed voices).

PCC choirs were invited to perform for state and regional convocations of the American Choral Directors Association.

2020 The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of Showtime eSing, an online learning platform, was established.

2022 PCC made its debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

2023 A nearly $500K investment was secured from the Escambia Children’s Trust to provide tuition-free membership to at-risk youth in Escambia County. Hauntcert debuts at the Saenger.

2024 PCC presented a standalone concert for the American Choral Directors Association in Louisville.

OUR STORY

Since its formal beginnings in 1990, the Pensacola Children’s Chorus has sought to inspire and transform the lives of young people through music and the performing arts. Under the leadership of founding artistic directors, Susan and Allen Pote, PCC was originally formed under the auspices of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra and was called the Pensacola Symphony Children’s Chorus. With growing interest, PCC formally separated from the Symphony in 1994 and incorporated as an independent 501(c)3. Over time, PCC has grown to amass 9 resident ensembles, 3 neighborhood programs, 2 regional choirs, and a regular schedule of summer programming. Mounting over 40 performances each season, PCC reaches an annual audience of nearly 25,000 individuals.

PCC’s performance résumé is vast. Its first concert similar to the Broadway-style musical revues it mounts today began in early 1990s with the first Showtime concert. Held in the parish hall of First Presbyterian Church to a large crowd, it was clear that a move to a bigger venue was in order, and thus performances at PCC’s Saenger Theatre became a staple of the regular concert calendar. Soon after, the first Christmas on the Coast came to life in 1995 and has since been a beloved holiday tradition in Pensacola.

In 1997, operations moved into a permanent facility on the campus of First Presbyterian Church, a place it still calls home today.

In 2015, Susan and Allen Pote announced their plans to retire at the conclusion at of the 2015–2016 season after 26 years of leadership. The Board of Directors launched a national search and identified Alex Gartner, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, to serve as the new Artistic Director.

Under Gartner’s leadership since 2016, PCC has evolved into a multi-program organization. The Resident Choir Program remains the flagship with 6 core ensembles and 3 elective ensembles reaching singers in Grades 1–12. These groups combine for the Mainstage Performance Series which includes Hauntcert , Christmas on the Coast, One World, Many Voices, and Showtime

These initiatives are flanked by the Neighborhood Choir Program, a network of ensembles rooted in communites who have historically lacked access to the arts; and Regional Initiatives, which include the Tri-City Children’s Choir (serving northern Escambia County) and the Atmore Area Youth Choir located across the state line in Alabama. Summer months are filled with Sing in the Summer, a multiweek series of camps rooted in foundational music and movement education.

PCC’s three decades of accomplishments and milestones are vast, yet none compare with the greatest of all: the thousands of young lives that have been radically transformed through music. At PCC, music is not simply a means of entertainment, it is a tool that is used to build critical skills that enable a child to be successful throughout their lives. Responsibility, teamwork, accountability, confidence, and empathy—these are the values which are embedded in every facet of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. Together, they create a safe, inclusive environment where every child can thrive.

VENUE INFORMATION

Photography & Videography

The use of video cameras, cell phone cameras, or recording equipment of any kind is strictly prohibited during performances. Unauthorized recordings are in breach of federal copyright law. You are welcome to take photos with your favorite performers before or after the performances. If you post to social media, be sure to use the hashtags #PCCSings or #OneWorldManyVoices and tag @PensacolaChildrensChorus

Public Health & Safety

To ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all performers, production staff, and audience members, it is strongly suggested that patrons exercise sound judgment with regard to their personal health and the health of others. If you have a fever of 100.4˚F or higher, or if you are experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms, please return home. Hand sanitizing stations have been placed throughout the facility for your convenience. If you need to cough or sneeze, please do so into a handkerchief, tissue, or your elbow out of courtesy to fellow audience members.

Handicap Accessibility

Handicap accessible seating is located in the middle of the sanctuary. Due to limited space, parties may need to be separated to accommodate all patrons. Balcony seating is not handicap accessible. Accessible restrooms are located in the front and rear of the sanctuary. An elevator to reach other levels of the facility is located outside the doors near the piano.

Food & Beverage

Food and beverage, with the exception of bottled water, is not allowed in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church. Please be respectful of this borrowed space.

Restrooms

Restrooms are available throughout the facility. Please refer to posted signage for more information. Limited capacity restrooms can be found in both the sanctuary and balcony lobbies. Larger facilities near the front of the Sanctuary through the doors on the right hand/organ side. Please look for blue signage.

Singer Pickup

Only performers, staff, and scheduled volunteers are permitted in the backstage areas. Patrons, unscheduled volunteers, parents, and alumni are not allowed in singer holding areas at any time before, during, or after the performance. You are welcome to greet the performers in the main courtyard along E. Jackson St. at the conclusion of the performance.

Seating Policy

Doors will open 60-75 minutes prior to the performance. Patrons who arrive early may queue in front of the Sanctuary doors on Palafox Street. Please be mindful of parking and weather as you make your way to the venue. There are no assigned seats for this performance, with the exception of a reserved VIP section. To comfortably accommodate as many patrons as possible, you may be asked to shift your location in your self-selected row by a PCC staff member or usher. We thank you in advance for your flexibility and compliance. Latecomers will be seated at appropriate intervals.

Office Hours & Information

Margaret Moore Nickelsen Center | 46 E. Chase St., Pensacola FL, 32502 (850) 434-7760 | admin@pensacolasings.org

Office Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 am-5 pm | Friday, 9 am-12 pm

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus, I’d like to welcome you to our midseason concert— One World, Many Voices. This traditional concert experience highlights the beauty of hearing young singers perform choral music with all of their hearts.

Speaking of highlighting great choral singing, it is my distinct pleasure to congratulate the members of PCC’s Choraliers on their recent performance at the opening concert for the 2024 ACDA Southern Region Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. This invitation was earned through a blind, peer-reviewed, and highly competitive selection process. This achievement recognizes and celebrates PCC’s 34 year history of fostering the personal and social growth of each of our members through music and performance. Each member of Choraliers demonstrated outstanding discipline as they shared their choral program and their PCC spirit with the ACDA community. Performing at the Southern Region ACDA Conference is a distinguished honor and I am proud to be associated with this outstanding organization.

Thanks to the vision and leadership of our Artistic and Executive Director, Alex Gartner, PCC has grown beyond our flagship Regional Choirs to establish a total of 14 unique choirs operating across Northwest Florida and Southwest Alabama. We are proud to partner with the City of Pensacola and the Escambia Children’s Trust to ensure that all students, especially those with greatest need, have free and affordable access to our programs.

Being a member of PCC is a life changing opportunity for our 300+ members. From first grade through twelfth grade, each singer is empowered to realize their full potential both as a musician and as a future leader. Our singers apply lessons learned through music in leadership roles both in PCC and in their 60+ represented schools, ensuring a bright future for all of us with their passion for community building and making a difference.

Be sure to mark your calendars for Showtime, our annual Broadway-style extravaganza, coming up in May. This exciting finale to our 2023–2024 season is not to be missed! Meanwhile, enjoy being immersed in the enchanting singing and story-telling of One World, Many Voices!

Sheila Dunn, DM

President, Board of Directors, Pensacola Children’s Chorus

Director of Voice, Dr. Grier Williams School of Music, University of West Florida

FRIENDS OF NOTE

Dazzling Stars ($10,000+)

Art, Culture, and Entertainment, Inc. (ACE)

ADX Communications

Appleyard Family Foundation

Escambia Children’s Trust

First Presbyterian Church

Florida Department of Arts & Culture

Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area

Jennifer Hoekstra & Srivasta Gupta

Val & Ray Russenberger *

WEAR Channel 3

Brilliant Stars ($5,000–$9,999)

Aylstock Witkin Kreis & Overholtz

Ballinger Publishing

Caldwell Associates Architects

Ted & Karla Ent *

Travis Hornsby

Johnson Supply Company

Joe & Bev Kinego

D.W. McMillan Trust

Julian & Kim MacQueen *

William Moreland

Sandy Sansing & Family *

Shooting Stars ($2,500–$4,999)

Advanced Dental Concepts

Alpha-Lit Pensacola

Angelo’s Towing

The Bear Family Foundation *

Beggs & Lane, RLLP

Robin & John Carr

Carver Darden Law

Center for Clergy Care & Education

City of Pensacola Department of Parks & Recreation

Guardian Pharmacy

Mary & T.J. Henriques

Innisfree Hotels

Logomotion Marketing

Novus Anesthesia Partners

Dr. Michael Riesberg, MD

Site & Utility, LLC

Target Circle Foundation

Truist Bank

Jodie & Nikki Webb *

Shining Stars ($1,000–$2,499)

A on Time Airport Connection

Michael & Lindsay Blanton *

The Burch Family Trust

In Honor of Vera Kate Bell

H. Miller Caldwell Jr. & Mrs. Debbie Caldwell *

Chick-Fil-A Bayou Blvd.

Anna M. Child

Gary Child

Anne Daniel

Janice Webb & Tom Daniel *

In Honor of Gabriella Webb

Sheila & Bobby Dunn *

Aaron Erskine/Erskine Benefits

Jeffery Fulton * °

Alex & Kirstin Gartner *

Jeffrey & Catherine Hyde

James Johnson

Paul & Annette Johnston * Medical Imaging Expert, LLC

Meta, Inc./Network for Good

Rita Miller

New Leaders in Fertility & Endocrinology

Eric & Peggy Nickelsen *

Susan & Allen Pote

Gary & Renee Rivord *

In Honor of Charlotte Aukamp

Andrea & Todd Rosenbaum *

In Honor of Claire & Sarah Escobedo

Mark Ryan & Alejandra Escobar-Ryan

Saenger Theatre

Saltmarsh Cleaveland & Gund

Douglas Scharinger & Marilyn González De Scharinger *

Jerome Shannon & Charlie Smoke *

John & Mary Slocum *

Switzer Brothers Charitable Foundation

José Troché & Maria Carmona-Troché *

United Bank Charitable Foundation +

Vaughn Brinkley Wealth Strategies Group

James E. Waddle, Jr. *

In Honor of Max Gartner

Jeff Weeks & Sherri

Hemminghaus Weeks

Dr. Lusharon Wiley, EdD *

Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics

Woodlands Medical Specialists

WUWF 88.1

Twinkling Stars ($500–$999)

Order of DaedaliansShangri-La Flight

Ernie Dawson *

Jill & Mike Gartner

Matt & Donna Harwell *

Donald & Linda Lindsey

Noelle & Josh Poole *

Jimmy Stapleton

Joe & Karen Webb *

Bright Stars ($250–$499)

Betty & Terry Berling *

Bondurant Lumber & Hardware +

Terry & Susan Cook *

Jim & Shirley Cronley *

Mike Denkler *

In Memory of Kathy Denkler

Lisa & Robert Fitzgerald *

In Honor of Ava Fitzgerald

Ron & Emily Hedgecock *

In Honor of Will Hedgecock

Art & Mary Hufford

Edmund & Julia Murphy *

PCC Student Activity Squad *

Hanan Tarabay & Howard Reddy *

Jerry Unruh, VADM, USN (Ret.) & Mrs. Dee Unruh

Ellen W. Vinson

In Memory of Ellen Jane Watson

Amy & Kyle Watson *

In Memory of Esther Pote Stump

Clara S. Wimberly *

FRIENDS OF NOTE

Wishing Stars (up to $249)

John & Carissa Adams *

Ted J. Agurkis

Angelo & Christine Alexakos *

Amazon Smile Foundation

Megan & Victor Andzulis *

Carl Armour *

CAPT Linda J. Balink-White, USN (Ret.)

In Memory of CDR Philip A. Balink-White, MBE, Royal Navy

Robert Bellanova

Tosh & Laura Belsinger *

Eugene S. Benvenutti

In Honor of Reagan Docherty

Linda & Bob Bloom °

In Honor of Ella Webb

Wayne & Teresa Bradley *

Ann Brown

In Honor of Gabriella Webb

Jim & Marsha Brown

In Memory of Roger Vinson

Terri & Dan Burks

H. Miller Caldwell III & Mrs. Kat Caldwell *

Sheila Child

Patrick & Shannon Coleman *

Samantha & Larry Copenhaver

In Honor of Avica Spencer

Debbie Cross *

Julie A. Day

In Memory of Lois Kathleen Miller

George & Mary Daza *

Doralyn DeMauro

Judith Dulabhan

In Memory of Kenneth Dulabhan

Deborah Dunlap

In Honor of Devan Sean Dunlap

Shannon Fell

William Fiser

Ashley W. Fish, DDS

Daniel Fleishman & Barbara Shapiro

Donna Funck *

Maureen Gartner

In Honor of Max Gartner

Rachel Johnson Geisler

Hill & Maria Goodspeed *

Elizabeth Gray *

Samuel Guild *

James & Jessica Hampton *

Carolee Hansen

In Memory of Lois Kathleen Miller

Sharon Hess Herrick *

Deborah A. Hodge *

Barry Howard

In Honor of Alex Gartner

Art & Mary Hufford

John-Paul Hughes *

Jessica & Christopher Hyche *

Judith & Alejandro Inclan

Samantha Katen *

Karen & Jon Kellams *

Jamie Kerkhof *

Elizabeth Kilmer

Kevin & Jodi King *

Lilia Knight

Dr. Kevin & Mrs. Kim Kovacs *

Paula Ellen Launtz *

Joshua & Sara Lewis *

Mr. & Mrs. Walter R. Limbach *

Kathleen & C. Flack Logan *

Keith Mackey *

Natalie Magaw *

Shane Maskalick *

Lee Ann McCormick

Dainel McCort

Corey & Chandra McKern *

John & Barbara McLaughlin

John Mead *

Kathy Meehling *

Kyle & Stewart Melton *

Kathryn Miller

In Memory of Lois Kathleen Miller

Robert & Suzanne Mize

Deborah Moss

Catherine O’Malley

Mary Ann Penning

All or portion of gift designated toward:

* Designated toward Tuition Assistance and Scholarships

° Designated toward Susan & Allen Pote

Pensacola Children’s Chorus Endowment Fund

+ Designated toward Tri-City or Atmore Regional Choirs

We sincerely apologize for any omissions due to printing deadlines.

Susan & Allen Pote

In Memory of Mary Teschel; In Honor of Vincent Teschel

Susan & Allen Pote

In Memory of Lewis Bear, Jr.

Brittany Powell *

Jeff Pryhuber *

Terry & Beth Ptacek *

Cheri Quade *

Donna Quinn *

Adeline & Charles Raley

Julia & Alberto Reyes *

Dr. Michael & Allison Roberts *

Charlie Robinson *

Carol Rohs

Brad & Paige Rowe *

Jonathan & Kate Runge *

Chris Sacco *

Sharon Sanders

Dorothy R. Schuman

Catherine Scott-Cahill

Dan & Veronica Seymour *

Bill & Heather Shearer *

Brian & Dr. Erlyn Smith *

Kevin & Leah Smith *

Mike & Cynthia Smith

Dr. Peter Steenblik *

Jessica Struck *

Paul & Lynne Tobin *

Hildarelis Troché *

Sara Van Sickle *

Karen Vidal *

Kyle Waters *

James Watkins

Helen & Richard Weis

Virginia Lynn White

In Honor of Henry White

Robert & Sheila Wilcox

Sean Williams *

Dr. Sandra Winborne *

William Wingett *

Winn Dixie - Blue Angel Parkway

Walter & Joan Wojciehowski

Bill & Beverly Zimmern

In Honor of Emma & Charlotte Zimmern

Robin Zimmern & Mike Spencer *

MERIT AWARD & SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

2023 The Spirit of Pensacola Scholarship

The Spirit of Pensacola Collegiate Scholarship is awarded to outstanding graduating seniors who best exemplify the qualities of honor, courage, and commitment. True to the civic and military fabric of Pensacola, the awardees shall be selected and recognized for significant service and leadership in their own community and that of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus.

Davis Bare

Madison Brown

The Betty Berling Award

The Betty Berling Award was established in July 2023 to honor the generous service provided by Betty Berling as a 16-year member of the Board of Directors of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. In the spirit of Ms. Berling’s passion for the Chorus’s mission and dedication to volunteerism, this scholarship will be awarded annually to a singer who shows promising musical potential who has been a member of PCC for at least 3 years and who has a laudable attendance record. The inaugural award will be presented to a deserving member at the start of the 2024–2025 season.

Beatrice Bunnell Sandy Sansing Award

Holden Raley Donald Lindsey Award

Bruno DaSilva Ashley Brown Award

Sydney Ferris Esther Pote Stump Award

Vivian Fernandez Kendra Wilkerson Fendt Award

Peyton Dykes Barbara Adriance Award

MISSION IN MOTION

Our impact extends far beyond any concert stage.

While the mission of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus is musical in nature, our impact is more than just notes on a page or a moment in the spotlight.

At PCC, music is used to transform the lives of our singers, enrich our community, and build a prosperous future.

Music builds character

When a child dedicates themselves to growing their musical and performance abilities, they learn many valuable lessons along the way. At PCC, these include responsibility, teamwork, accountability, empathy, and confidence. Our programs are built on a framework of social and emotional learning which equips our singers with the agency to build their self-esteem, develop meaningful relationships, and act as positive contributors to our world.

Music creates connection

The best song is one that is shared with others. That’s why PCC offers anywhere from 20 to 40 performances each year, reaching an audience of over 25,000 people annually.

Music strengthens community

As a not-for-profit organization, PCC recognizes the importance of using music to support the Northwest Florida community. Much of this work is carried out by members of the Ambassador Choir, a group that is solely dedicated to partnering with local nonprofits and using music to highlight social issues.

Music teaches respect

One of PCC’s most cherished traditions is honoring the past and present members of the United States Armed Forces. When singers perform the official song of each branch and witness active and retired service members stand with pride, they can witness the selfless sacrifice that is required to protect what we cherish.

Music cultivates leadership

Children unlock their potential for leadership when they strive for excellence, refine their skills, and mature as individuals. The training they receive at PCC extends into other facets of their lives, including school. With nearly 60 schools represented by our members, PCC’s influence on the arts ecosystem of Northwest Florida is amplified through our nearly 300 singers each year.

72

Number of public, private, and homeschool cohorts represented by current PCC singers.

MISSION IN MOTION

5,232

Number of K-12 students who experienced a PCC performance or educational program last year.

59

Number of performances and educational events last year.

16,269

Number of audience members who experienced a PCC mainstage or community performance last year.

$66,284

Dollars spent to ensure that 49 children with financial need found a home in PCC.

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CHOIR ROSTERS

Preparatory Grades 1–2

Emmie Adams

Navi Alderman

Lily Anderson

Lucas Bishop

Annabelle Brewer

Maebry Caraballo

Zoe Cheatham

Emmy Cummings

Karlii Davis

Marin Dudney

Robert Dunn

Abigail Duvall

Charlotte Easterly

Emi Frenkel

Sophie Garrell

Addy Gill

Asher Hedtke

Mim Hill

Magnolia Huffmaster

Choristers Grade 3

Anna Sophia

Alexakos

Mikaylee Anderson

Ethan Andzulis

Elise Arevalo

Weston Berry

Jairus Buensuceso

Hannah Day

Catherine Dunn

Ella Pearl Eve

Emma Gibbs

Savannah Glover

Ramona Gould

KJ Gupta

Liam Johnson

Robin Klingmann

Festival & Lyric Grades 4–5

Marilyn Ball

Liv Barrow

Journey Barsh

Atalynne Benge

Alexis Bernhardt

Piper Bizerra

Ruby Caraballo

Jai’Don Carter

Grace Cipriano

Tory Cipriano

Emelyn Crosby

Ivey Datu

Ella Dixon

Avery Ellwood

Mary Clark Forshee

Xander Ginnetti

Annalise Gonzalez

Penelope Granger

Keira Griffith

Robbie Gupta

Patrick Higgins

Kai Hill

Hadlee Hitchcock

Emery Hoffman

Ty Hubbart

Mia Isabelle Jiménez

Lizzy Johnson

Roan Johnson

Taylor Johnson

Brenda Kimeli

Brooklyn Larson

Khali Liddell

Becca Lorge

Lexi Martin

Eliza Jacobs

Tabby Johnson

Mariah Locke

Victoria Nelson

Harper Pabalan

Bryson Powell

Del Pulling

Myra Robinson

Malakai Sauceda

Adalyn Self

Crina Knight

Nicholas Knight

Melania Knight

Karoline Kurek

Eve Lambeth

Sariyah Lott

Louella Mead

Daisy Mohlmann

Koral Smith

Gwendolynn SmythChandler

Bree Stead

Judson Taylor

Blaze Turner

Savannah Vaughan

Kate Vidal

Jordan Williams

Cora Payne

Anastasiya Pozdinokova

Dayla Redding

Jackson Rodriguez

Axl Turner

Lucy Wiltshire

Emilia Zieman

Lana Mejia

Isabella Neeley

Landon Newton

Emmy Oaks

Emily Pitts

Arden Poole

Nyla Porter

Rylee Powell

Arhaam Raheem

Julian Rodriguez

Alivia Rodriguez

Sophie Rowell

Emily Ryan

Sophia Sabata

Ava Shead

Piper Shearlock

Aria Smith

Wyatt Snyder

Adelyn Solis

Khloe Sowers

Claire Sperlbaum

Olivia Suri

Ella Tharp

Aubrey Vick

Emily Viquelia

Lya Wheeler

Abby Whitead

Kaycee Gale Woodruff

Niyah Young

Charlotte Zimmern

Emilie Zoesch

Concert Grades 6–8

Jose Alfaro

Charlotte Aukamp +

Brandon Austin +

Carter Bowman

Zoey Brown +

Hudson Brown +

Riley Chism +

Ava Christensen +

Abigail Coleman +

Charlette Coleman

Amethyst Davis

Mac Daza +

Addison Denson +

Cai Durbin

Lana Fernandez +

Blakely Flores +

Roey Foreman

Annabelle Glasgow

Hazel Glover

Henley Hancy

Molly Hartsfield

Alaina Hernandez

Bridget Holston +

Carson Hyde +

Melody Jones +

Sierra Kaldahl

Arlo Kervin

Ashirah Kilmer +

Reagan Kozminsky

Harper Mahaney

Chorale & Choraliers Grades 9–12

Gabe Bailey

Vera Kate Bell *

Michaela Bermudez *

Beatrice Bunnell *

Ellie Caldwell *

Lily Campbell *

Ainsley Cramblet *

Riley Crites *

Amelia Cruit *

Bruno Da Silva *

Peyton Dykes *

Grace English

Vivian Fernandez *

Sydney Ferris *

Gabriel Flores *

Emilie Funck *

Liv Gammon *

Anderson Ginnetti

Marz Green

Lilly Haims *

Sydnie Hedtke

Hayleigh Hill

Parker Hodge

KK Honeycutt

Zoey Jefferson *

Grace Kellams *

Ambassadors Grades 7–12

Lily Campbell

Abigail Coleman

Ainsley Cramblet

Grace English

Gabriel Flores

Liv Gammon

Ellie Scharinger

Kate Smith

Aryn Stinnett

Gigi Thrush

Brennan Uslan

Shaelyn Wilkerson

Emma Zimmern

CHOIR ROSTERS

Marissa Mandel

Erin Martin

Maverick Mathison

Josh Matthews

Ben Medley

Alex Merges

Elanna MilhouseSmith +

Kai Munoz-Saulnier

Hollyn Myers

Will Pappas

Lexi Parks

Amy Pitts +

Abby Pulling +

Graham Rice

Mia Slocum +

Cora Smith

Averie Smith

Kate Smith +

Avica Spencer +

Aryn Stinnett

Sophia Thornton

Gigi Thrush

Kayleigh Wheeler

Emma Whitead +

Kinley Woodruff

Izzy Zimmerman

Emma Zimmern

Rinah Kilmer *

Ava Lane

Aubrey Leger *

Jaden Machesky

Angie Martin

Meridien Mathison *

Jocelyn Mayeux

Amelia Mesa *

Noah Mitts

Tyler Myers

Dani Newman

Chloe Odom

Miley Owens

Holden Raley *

Hannah Raley *

Lilly Remington *

Layke Richmond *

Rylee Rogers

Ellie Scharinger *

Gracie Slocum *

Anna Stersic *

McKenzie Taylor *

Brennan Uslan *

Ella Webb *

Elise Welch

Shaelyn Wilkerson *

PROUDLY PRESENTS One World, Many Voices

MARCH 3, 2024

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF PENSACOLA

One World, Many Voices

A colorful selection of choral music that celebrates the beauty and complexity of the human spirit.

One act with no intermission (approx. 100 minutes)

This performance will be live-streamed. Please silence your cell phones.

Alex Gartner Artistic Director

Juliana Child Assistant Artistic Director

Miguel Aldahondo Director of Community Programs

Stephany Heath Associate Director

Evelyn Aguirre Assistant Director

Katie Olson Assistant Director

Brooke Dykes Performance Coordinator

Heidi Siren Wardrobe Manager

ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES

Young Singers

Alex Gartner, conductor

Nda wana TradiTional SouTh african/arr. Michael Barrett

Translation: I found the children playing while the birds were singing by the river as they resisted sleep. This children’s play song starts as just a single voice (or in this case, voice part) and becomes increasingly complex as the piece develops. The arranger likens it to children skipping rope at a speed which intensifies as the song progresses. It is sung in Venda, a Bantu language that is spoken in South Africa and neighboring Zimbabwe.

Michaela Bermudez, soloist

We Are Held by Susan LaBarr & Jim Wilson

In the words of composer Susan LaBarr, this piece “expresses what it is to hold hope in your heart through a difficult season.” A simple circular melodic line gently moves up and down, creating a sense of calm and stasis that keeps one rooted, or seemingly held in place. “May this song remind you that no matter what you are going through, you are held.”

River in Judea arr. John Leavitt

This gospel-style piece exudes joy. According to PCC singers, it reminds them about all the things they love about music. Centered on a river-is-life metaphor, a bright, powerful choral refrain frames messages of nostalgia, selfreflection, spirituality, and community.

Chorale

Stephany Heath, conductor

Bonse aba TradiTional Zambian/arr. Andrew Fischer

From the arranger: “‘Bonse Aba’ is a Christian song of celebration that is popular throughout Zambia. The text, from the original Chibemba language that is spoken primarily in Zambia, loosely translates to, ‘All that sing have the right to be called the children of God.’”

Bruno Da Silva, soloist

In Time of Silver Rain by Sarah Quartel

This gorgeous setting of Langston Hughes’s poetry paints a vivid picture of a spring day. The words illustrate how both human beings and things in nature come alive in new ways in the springtime.

There Has to Be a Song by Andrea Ramsey

“There has to be a song to make our burdens bearable… to make our hopes believable.” In times of struggle, so many of us turn to music. Let this heartwarming gospel-style song be a balm for whatever worries you may hold in your mind today.

Scan to view Song Lyrics & Translations

ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES

Festival/Lyric

Juliana Child, conductor

Hisakata (The Gentle Light of Spring) by Victor C. Johnson

Translation: In the sunlight of a serene spring day, why do flowers scatter, their hearts without peace?

The text of this piece is an excerpt from an ancient Japanese poem about springtime. It opens with a makurakotoba, otherwise known as a “pillow word” which refers to a fixed expression with no clear definition that is used to modify other words in classical Japanese poetry. Broken down, the opening words “hisakata no” would mean something along the lines of “from a distant direction.” Because the word that follows is “hikari,” meaning “light,” this poem is understood to be about the sun, a light shining from a distance. The final Japanese word that you will hear in the piece is “nodokeki,” meaning “gentle” or “serene.”

Monika Durbin, flute

Keep Your Lamps!

TradiTional SpiriTual/arr. Victor C. Johnson

This song is believed to have served multiple purposes throughout American history. With its text alluding to multiple Bible verses, it may have been used as a religious devotional song during the Civil War era. Many believe that the song was also sung by enslaved people as a coded means of communicating with each other about the Underground Railroad.

The Goat arr. Mark Burrows

Set to the familiar tune of “Froggy Went A-Courtin’,” this piece tells an exciting and humorous tale about a goat who gets himself into a heap of trouble. We hope you enjoy the ride!

Ambassadors

Miguel Aldahondo, conductor

Las Gaviotas (The Seagulls) by Eduardo Cota

Translation: Look at the seagulls flying in the harbor with their white wings open to the wind. They look like kites, like handkerchiefs. They’re white sheets that go through the sky.

In this joyful and whimsical piece, Mexican composer Eduardo Cota aims to capture the bright and vivid imagination of a child discovering seagulls for the first time. With the piano accompaniment serving as a harmonic soloist, it gracefully paints the picture of the fleeting yet beautiful moment in this child’s life.

The Colors of My Life from Barnum arr. John Leavitt

And should this sunlit world grow dark one day, the colors of my life will leave a shining light to show the way. This ballad from the musical Barnum is brimming with emotion and imagery. As the main character depicts how he views the world, the lyrics challenge us to not only appreciate its vibrancy, but to add to its beauty.

Daa Naa Se (Oh Give Thanks)

TradiTional Ghanaian/arr. Raymond Wise

Translation: Give thanks to God because he’s good and his mercies endure forever.

This traditional Ghanaian folk song sings of giving thanks for all good things provided. Though Ghana is home to more than 70 languages, this piece holds a strong tradition due to it being written in the country’s official second language of Twi (a language spoken by 95% of Ghanaians). True to its goal of maintaining a presence in the community, the Ambassador choir hopes to follow in the footsteps of this song by uniting communities, regardless of location or language.

ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES

Preparatory & Choristers

Juliana Child & Katie Olson, conductors

The Water Is Wide (Waly, Waly) TradiTional ScoTTiSh/arr. Ruth Elaine Schram

As is the case with most folk songs from around the world, The Water is Wide exists in many different forms. The song is beloved for its sweeping melody and the rich imagery of the text. Most versions are understood to be about the trials of romantic love, and some verses even depict the heartbreak of a love lost. The version you will hear today was created with children in mind, with new lyrics written by the arranger that tell a more hopeful story about helping friends and becoming our best selves.

You Gotta Sing When the Spirit Says Sing TradiTional SpiriTual/as performed by Raffi

In this lively piece, you’ll see our youngest singers moving their bodies the way their spirits tell them to as they sing!

Kye Kye Kule

TradiTional WeST african/arr. Greg Gilpin

From the arranger: “Kye Kye Kule is believed to have originated from Ghana, West Africa and is sung in many countries throughout Africa and around the world. Just like with some folk songs here in the United States and other countries, there is no known translation other than what has been handed down. Different theories on the language and meaning exist, but a common thread is that it is a ‘welcome’ song, inviting people to join together.”

The Path to the Moon

by Eric H. Thiman

With its gentle rise and fall, this piece’s melody paints a vivid picture of the waves on the sea. Allow the singers’ lovely voices to take you on a relaxing journey in a sailboat on a cool, starry night.

Sing Me a Song by Leonard Enns

This song may sound easy and breezy, but beneath the surface, it is full of challenging leaps and syncopated rhythms that the singers have worked very hard to prepare. We hope that this delightful ditty will bring some sunshine to your day!

Ensemble & Concert

Juliana Child & Evelyn Aguirre, conductors

Sim Shalom (Grant Peace)

by Allan Naplan

Translation: Grant peace, goodness and blessing, graciousness and compassion, on all that dwell on this earth. May it be your will to end hatred, war, and bloodshed from the world. And may we all form one community to realize this will wholeheartedly. Creator of peace, bless us with peace.

In March 1999, composer Allan Naplan was commissioned to create a new work for the Young Voices of Colorado. One month later, the ensemble’s community of Littleton, Colorado would experience one of the most horrific events in United States history—the Columbine High School massacre. Naplan’s Sim Shalom was composed for the one year anniversary of the tragic event. Based on a liturgical Hebrew text from the Gates of Prayer (The New Union Prayerbook), Sim Shalom begins as a solemn and simple statement that soon blossoms into a hopeful and exuberant blessing for peace. Today, our collective yearning for peace only continues to grow stronger in the face of the many conflicts, hardships, and wars that ravage our world.

Let Me Fly

TradiTional SpiriTual/arr. Rollo Dilworth

From the arranger: “African-American slaves dreamed of the day they would be free. Even if freedom on earth seemed impossible, these people knew, through their faith and convictions, that they would ultimately find freedom in the heavenly realm—hence the references to ‘Mount Zion’ and the ‘Promised Land’ in this spiritual. As in other spirituals, the chariot becomes a symbol for freedom. In the earthly sense, the chariot represents the Underground Railroad. In the more metaphysical sense, the image of the chariot, as in the story of Elijah in the Old Testament, represents a transcendent journey into the heavens.”

Why Not?

by Nathan Howe

This playful and humorous piece takes both the performer and the listener on a journey through life’s stages. Listen closely to the lyrics, and you will experience adolescence, young adulthood, middle age, and old age through the naïve and imaginative eyes of a young child fantasizing about their own future happiness. Everyone dreams of being happy in the years that lay ahead, but this piece challenges us to ask ourselves: Why not just be happy now?

Come Travel with Me by Scott Farthing

With a text inspired by Walt Whitman’s “Song of the Open Road,” this piece encapsulates the thrill of embarking on a journey with friends old and new. Whether it inspires wanderlust or simply a zest for life, we hope that this piece transports you somewhere special.

God Be in My Head

by Andrea Ramsey

The simple, moving text of this piece dates back to the 16th century. While the piece is short, it is full of powerful moments of tension and release.

JAM! (Jom-Ayuh-Mari!) by Tracy

Wong

According to the composer, JAM! is a three-way play on words. First, in colloquial Malay, jom, ayuh, and mari all have similar meanings—“Come, let’s go!” Nada, in the context of singing, means “vocal tone.” Second, the catchy, repetitive, and conversation-like musical themes suggest a group of musicians coming together (akin to a jamsession). Lastly, jam in Malay also translates to “clock,” suggesting a passage of time represented by the consistent snapping of fingers. In essence, the music is saying, “Come, let’s go make some music together and sing while passing time! Leave your worries for a while.”

Mac Daza, Blakely Flores, Elanna Milhouse-Smith, Mia Slocum, & Katelyn Smith, body percussion

Choraliers

Alex Gartner & Juliana Child, conductors

All Together We Are Love

by Katerina Gimon

This playful, a cappella piece—complete with aleatoric passages, weaving vocal lines, range extremities, and quasibeatboxing—gives way to a simple message: when hearts beat as one, despite our successes and shortcomings, we can make this world a more vibrant and beautiful place to be.

ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES

Chaŋté Wašté Hokšíla TradiTional lakoTa lullaby/arr. Linthicum-Blackhorse

Translation: I have brought you here so that I can speak your language, so that you can recognize me. My kindhearted boy, I beg you to fall asleep. The night is good. I am speaking your language.

In creating this hauntingly beautiful setting of a traditional Lakota lullaby, Dr. William Linthicum-Blackhorse has built upon the legacy of Lakota elders who embraced the importance of recording, analyzing, translating, and transcribing songs that define the collective identity of the Teton Lakota-Sioux tribe of the Oċet I Ṡak owiƞ (meaning “seven council fires,” the proper name for the Sioux people). This Hok ṡik ilowaƞp̄i (or “children’s lullaby”) breaks from the typical Lakota song structure which is usually characterized by a short opening “lead” that is then repeated once before the main theme begins. Instead, Čhaŋté Wašté Hokšíla opens with an elongated chorus that is repeated and developed throughout the song. It is possible that the lullaby took this form as a result of a parent attempting to lull a baby to sleep by drawing out the soothing melody.

Dr. Blackhorse shared that shortly after starting to write the piece—a lullaby, no less—a mass shooting occured at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24, 2022. As someone with deep connections with Texas, he chose to continue composing in such a way that allowed his emotions to pour into the music while also maintaining the innocence of the original melody. The piece is dedicated to the victims of the Robb Elementary School mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas. Their memories are represented at the end of its performance when 21 voices abruptly fall silent, representing the 19 children and 2 teachers whose lives were tragically cut short that day.

River by

Joan Szymko

A torrent of voices opens this piece: There is a river flowing very fast. It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid, like they are being torn apart. They’ll try to hold on to the shore. In a world where quarrel and conflict are all around us, it’s understandable that a natural instinct is to cling to what is familiar or safe. These rapids are calmed by a melody of simple hope and personal empowerment—I am only one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something, and what I can do I should do. Starting with one voice and growing to many, this message reminds us that we have strength as individuals to effect change, and that when we work together, change can be amplified. Let go of the shore! See who is there with you and celebrate! We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.

Sydney Ferris, soloist

Be the Bridge by

Kyle Pederson

With each passing day, it seems that television news cycles and social media feeds are flooded with increasing ire and discord. When divisiveness is ever present, it’s difficult to fathom how peace, equity, and justice could ever become reality. Be the Bridge responds with a call to action: to reach across the divides we find in our lives; to envision life in another’s shoes; and to take restorative action. Most of all, it asks each of us to look inward: Where does your bridge lead to? Perhaps when we truly seek common ground, we can begin to build a better tomorrow.

Commissioned by the Pensacola Children’s Chorus for their performance at the 2024 ACDA Southern Region Conference in Louisville, Kentucky

Combined Choirs

Alex Gartner, conductor

Draw the Circle Wide

by Mark Miller

This anthem reminds us that to truly embrace the concept of community, we must create a space for all—one that is fair, equitable, and just. We must look around the circle and recognize the importance and equality of every person. We must also acknowledge that community is not one person’s job—it is everyone’s. No one stands alone. We’ll stand side by side. Draw the circle wide.

ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES

PARTICIPANTS IN THE PERFORMANCE

Photography

Garrett Hallbauer, Katie Hallbauer

Playbill Design

Garrett Hallbauer

Security

John Purcell Security

INSTRUMENTALISTS

Piano

Megan Andzulis, Alex Gartner

Rehearsal Pianist

Kyndall Jefferson

CHOIR LEADERSHIP TEAMS

Choir Representatives

Sound Technicians

Scot Cameron, Jeff Jordan

Videography/Streaming Director

Tyler Morrell

Percussion

Megan Andzulis, Juliana Child, Alex Gartner, Zoey Jefferson, Katie Olson

Shannon Coleman, Keisha Cramblet, Brittany Cummings, Dina Ferris, Christy Foreman, Moira Hartsfield, Brittney Jackson, Krystin Johnson, Kendal Larson, Tiffany Snyder, Lisa Stersic, Dacia Turner, Kendra Turner, Nikki Webb

Student Interns

Beatrice Bunnell, Lily Campbell, Ainsley Cramblet, Riley Crites, Peyton Dykes, Sydney Ferris, Zoey Jefferson, McKenzie Taylor, Brennan Uslan, Shaelyn Wilkerson

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Since the beginning, the Pensacola Children’s Chorus has been closely connected to the Escambia County School District and Santa Rosa County School District . Members of PCC’s staff routinely lead professional development workshops and serve as in-classroom consultants for local music teachers. PCC hosts the area third graders each year for a special performance of Christmas on the Coast and was able to take Hauntcert to 6 different elementary schools.

In January 2023, PCC was awarded a multiyear grant through the Escambia Children’s Trust, a taxpayer funded agency which provides leadership, funding, services, and research on behalf of Escambia County’s children to ensure they grow up to be healthy, productive, stable community members. Focusing on a target population of at-risk youth, ECT has provided membership for nearly 30 young people in PCC’s transformational choral programs.

In March 2023, PCC partnered with the City of Pensacola to launch Pensacola Sings, a network of community choirs based in neighborhood resource centers with an aim to make singing opportunities more available to the city’s youth.

The Pensacola Children’s Chorus is designated as a Partner in Education by the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Through this partnership, PCC works alongside the Fine Arts Department of the Escambia County School District and the Pensacola Opera to provide professional development for local music teachers.

The Pensacola Children’s Chorus has provided musical support to the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart for many years. The Ambassador Choir participates in special musical broadcasts in each patient’s room and welcomes Santa to their annual tree lighting ceremony. In 2019, the Ambassadors recorded a special arrangement of Somewhere Over the Rainbow which is paired with a child’s heartbeat. These songs serve as keepsakes for parents of children who pass away while in the hospital’s care.

The Pensacola Children’s Chorus regularly partners with our city’s leading arts organizations, including Pensacola Opera , Ballet Pensacola , the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra , the Choral Society of Pensacola , and Pensacola Little Theatre . These collaborations include full concerts, joint educational programs, and the exchange of costumes, set pieces, and equipment. Pensacola is fortunate to have such a vibrant arts community.

BEST OF LUCK TO PENSACOLA CHILDREN’S CHORUS

Choristers and Festival & Lyric

Srivatsa Gupta and Jennifer Hoekstra ("Karthik & Robbie's Mom and Dad")

SING OUT. SING LOUD. SING OFTEN.

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS

The Pensacola Children’s Chorus would like to recognize the schools our members attend:

A.K. Suter Elementary

Aletheia Christian Academy

Avalon Middle

Bagdad Elementary

Bailey Middle School

Bellview Elementary

Bennett-Russell Elementary

Berryhill Elementary School

Beulah Academy of Science

Beulah Elementary

Beulah Middle

Blue Angels Elementary

Booker T. Washington High

Brentwood Elementary

Brown Barge Middle

Coastline Christian Academy

Cordova Park Elementary

Creative Learning Academy

Dixon School of Arts & Sciences

East Bay K-8 School

East Hill Christian School

Episcopal Day School

Escambia High

Escambia Virtual Academy

Ferry Pass Elementary

Global Learning Academy

Gulf Breeze Elementary

Gulf Breeze High

Gulf Breeze Middle

Gulf Pointe Latin School

Hellen Caro Elementary

Homeschool

J.M. Tate High

Jim Allen Elementary

Jim Bailey Middle

Jubilee Christian Academy

King Middle

Kingsfield Elementary

Marcus Pointe Christian School

Montessori School of Pensacola

N.B. Cook Magnet School of the Arts

Navarre High

Navy Point Elementary

Oriole Beach Elementary

Pace High

Pensacola Beach Elementary

Pensacola Catholic High

Pensacola Christian Academy

Pensacola School of Liberal Arts

Pine Meadow Elementary

Pleasant Grove Elementary

Ransom Middle School

RC Lipscomb Elementary

Redeemer Lutheran School

S.S. Dixon Intermediate

S.S. Dixon Primary

Sacred Heart Cathedral School

Scenic Heights Elementary

Sims Middle

St. John the Evangelist Catholic School

St. Mary Catholic School

St. Paul Catholic School

Wallace Lake K-8

West Florida Baptist Academy

West Florida High

West Pensacola Elementary

Workman Middle

OUR TEAM

Program & Administrative Staff

Resident Choir Staff

Alex Gartner Artistic & Executive Director

Juliana Joy Child Assistant Artistic Director

Heidi Siren Costume Designer & Member Services

Cheyenne Farley Director of Advancement

Miguel Aldahondo Director of Community Programs

Courtney Johnson Executive Assistant & Office Coordinator

Brooke Dykes Program Manager

Garrett Hallbauer Marketing & Communications Manager

Megan Andzulis Principal Accompanist

Michael Dennis Choreographer

Lindsay Riddle Choreographer

Isabelle Schrack Musicianship Instructor

Stephany Heath Associate Director

Katie Olson Assistant Director

Evelyn Aguirre Assistant Director

OUR TEAM

Production Support

Dominic Krippes Technical Director

Jordan Sound Technician

Sheila Dunn, DM President

Alyssa Bramwell Stage Manager

Brannon Lighting Designer

John Purcell Security Specialist

Board of Directors

Karla Ent Vice President

Sri Gupta

Jessica Hyche

Deborah Moss

Noelle Poole

Andrea Rosenbaum

Jimmy Stapleton Treasurer

Members

Alejandra Ryan

Jerome Shannon

Rita Miller

Sherri Hemminghaus Weeks

Lusharon Wiley, EdD

Advisory Members

Mission Statement

The mission of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus is to foster the personal and social growth of its singers and engage the community through inspirational musical experiences.

Jeff

Lance

Secretary

Officers

Regan Bell Alumni Representative

Evan Martin Family Representative

Brennan Uslan Singer Representative

Zoey

We are proud to see you on stage with PCC for Christmas on the Coast!

We are excited to see all your hard work and practice come to life during the show!

proudly supports the Pensacola Children’s Chorus, and is especially proud of Zoey Jefferson!

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE: INTERVIEW WITH JENNIFER HOEKSTRA

A member of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus learns so much more than just song and dance. Behind every note and every step is an important lesson to be learned. Whether it’s responsibility, teamwork, accountability, empathy, or confidence, every musical motion has an extramusical benefit. Jennifer Hoekstra and Sri Gupta recognize the importance of this work. Both are veteran supporters of the chorus, contributing to PCC’s Tuition Assistance, as well as volunteering their time, with Sri serving on our Board of Directors. We sat down with Jennifer to learn about why she and Sri invest so generously in PCC’s singers.

Jennifer, what about PCC inspires you?

One of my favorite things about the Chorus is witnessing the joy my children experience while performing for their family, friends and community—as well as how brave and adventurous they are both becoming as a result of the training and life-skills developed at PCC.

What motivated you to make your first gift to PCC?

A friend’s youngest daughter joined PCC as an elementary student. As a young teenager, she was so enthusiastic about the amazing experiences she had and encouraged our children to also join. Part of her enthusiasm was spending time attending Showtime with my family. During that performance, the Senior Spotlights stole the show. Witnessing what accomplished and outgoing young adults PCC develops was all the motivation we needed—we knew that we wanted to support PCC so that our children and many others could participate for years to come.

Why do you continue to support PCC in the many ways you both do?

We appreciate the opportunities PCC presents to all children in our community, regardless of geographic location, family background or socio-economic status. The chance to perform in our local community and those far beyond at such a professional level fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment in the singers and their families. More than that, seeing the resilience

of PCC over the pandemic years encouraged our desire to help ensure the opportunities and programming existed for many years to come, regardless of any changes or social challenges that might arise.

What do you hope for PCC’s Future?

We hope that PCC continues to be a safe and welcoming place for our youth to discover the joy of performance. We hope that PCC’s future is pitch-perfect as the program becomes more accessible to everyone in our community.

What would you say to someone who is considering making a gift to PCC for the first time?

Watch the shining faces of kids performing on stage for the first time in Prep. Watch the confidence of a middle schooler grow as they perform their first solo. Watch a singer deliver a sponsor shout-out at the start of the show, speaking in front of a packed audience for the first time. You will be inspired to donate to PCC and ensure that the program continues for many years to come.

We hope you will consider joining Jennifer as a champion for the children of Northwest Florida. PCC’s Tuition Assistance Program provides need-based scholarships to children with financial need. All donations are 100% tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.

AREAS OF NEED

Can we count on you?

We are so thankful for your presence here today. Your ticket purchase helps PCC create memorable, dynamic performances for singers and audience members alike. But did you know that ticket sales provide PCC with less than 10% of the funds required to create these experiences year after year? For this reason and so much more, we are

grateful to the hundreds of individuals, families, local businesses, and grantors who generously invest in our programs and in our singers. We’d love to count you as a member of our PCC family of supporters. There are many ways in which you can financially support our mission of transforming young lives through music:

Programs

Individual Donation or Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Donations to our program fund directly support the operation of our 17 choirs which meet in downtown Pensacola and throughout Northwest Florida and Southwest Alabama. This fund helps us maintain high quality educational programs and performances that our singers and community have come to expect and appreciate.

Tuition Assistance

Individual Donation or Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Each year, approximately 40% of PCC singers apply for need-based scholarships that help offset the cost to participate in our programs. PCC pursues an annual fundraising goal of $40,000 to help ensure that every child—regardless of their family’s financial situation—can participate in PCC’s lifechanging education programs.

Endowment Fund

To honor the 26-year tenure of PCC’s founding artistic directors, the Susan & Allen Pote Endowment Fund was established in 2016. Once the fund crests $1M, earned interest will be used to furnish capital improvements aimed at making our programs even more spectacular. Stock transfers are welcome gifts, as are individual donations.

Scholarships

Donations to PCC’s scholarship fund provide financial awards to returning singers and graduating seniors. Through a competitive application process, qualifying singers are selected for their demonstrated commitment to the program, outstanding musicianship, and leadership within their respective choirs.

Donate today by completing and returning the included Friends of Note form in the back of your program. For more information, please contact Cheyenne Farley at cfarley@pensacolasings.org.

To the Friends of the

Music and performance can be transformative experiences, and an impactful arts-based education equips young people with the tools and skills necessary to thrive throughout their lives. At the Pensacola Children’s Chorus (PCC), this mission is at the center of all that we do—one that we have proudly championed as one of Pensacola’s foremost arts programs for children and youth for 34 years.

As we celebrate three decades of music-making and transforming lives in our community, I invite you to partner with us for the exciting future ahead. As a Friend of Note, your contribution to the Pensacola Children’s Chorus has a direct impact on the 300+ singers who will pass through our doors this year. Beyond our own singers, your donation will go further to reach almost 8,000 local children who will experience one of our programs this year, just a fraction of the over 25,000 audience members who will join our singers for performances throughout the season.

Your tax-deductible donation ensures that we can continue to make a lasting mark on the lives of our singers throughout the course of this year:

• $1,000 will cover the costs of one singer for an entire season

• $500 will cover the cost of one singer for half a season

• $100 will cover the cost of one singer per month

• $50 will cover the material cost of one singer per performance

As a Friends of Note contributor, will be listed in the program for each of our mainstage performances during our season. Your generous gift helps make the rigorous and impactful musical education we provide possible for our members.

As we celebrate over three decades of music-making, one cannot help but reflect on the rich history of our organization. Over the years, our choirs have performed for U.S. presidents and sung in distinguished concert halls all over the world. Our alumni shine in the lights of Broadway stages and television studios as well as countless offices, board rooms, and classrooms across the country. And while these milestones certainly deserve celebration, our legacy is so much more than an illustrious résumé. It’s the lifelong friendships that have been forged through a common love of music. It’s the steady transformation of a shy, quiet child into a bold, confident young adult. It’s the liberating realization that one does not, and should not, apologize for being who they are.

Our legacy is a life changed for the better, one after the other. With your contribution, you become an important part of our ongoing story.

With gratitude,

Alex Gartner Artistic & Executive Director

Cheyenne Farley Director of Advancement

YES! You can count on my support.

Enclosed is my tax deductible charitable gift of:

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Proudly Supports