The rationale expands upon the mission statement of the FCCC. It is a statement of “why we do what we do”.
MUSIC – The act of making music has intrinsic value in and of itself. Music is an art form which has existed as an integral part of every culture throughout history. When we sing we experience forms of beauty and joy which words cannot express. Music making can be a powerful source of meaning in our lives, a door to “the inward places of the soul”. Children’s choirs practice and perform great repertoire.
SINGING – Singing is a basic means of human expression. The voice is the most personal of musical instruments, an important and deep connection to who we are. Children’s choirs train individual singers and promote singing throughout our culture.
QUALITY OF LIFE – The arts enrich and nourish our lives in an unending multitude of ways. Higher degrees of knowledge, understanding and appreciation of music contribute to an enriched quality of life from before birth to the very end of life. The arts contribute to the cultural life of individuals and the community as a whole. An excellent children’s choir is a valuable asset to any community.
HUMAN DEVELOPMENT – Because of the unique manner in which the brain processes music, the act of music making has an invaluable impact on major aspects of growth and development. From a parent’s lullaby to a newborn baby to the most exalted masterpieces of the ages, music effects our cognitive, motor and affective development in myriad ways. For an infant, early musical experiences can establish and reinforce many important neuronal connections in the brain. Later, as children listen, describe, analyze, evaluate, sing, move, create and utilize a sophisticated symbol system, they are developing powerful thinking skills and problem solving abilities. Participation in a children’s choir positively affects human development, and builds attributes such as self-esteem, self-discipline, cooperation and self-motivation which are necessary for success in life.
CULTURAL HERITAGE AND LIFE LONG LEARNING – A child who sings learns about life. To participate fully in a diverse global society, we must understand our own historical and cultural heritage, and that of others within our community, our nation and the world. The skills, knowledge and experiences involved in making great music are nearly infinite in their depth and breadth. The children’s choir is an important chapter in a child’s life long musical journey.
FUN – In the words of the great musician Bobby McFerrin, “Music is serious fun!”