Philosophy

“If you can walk, you can dance, if you can talk, you can sing.” Zimbabwean Proverb

All children can learn to sing if they so desire, and are properly instructed. ACC seeks to develop the singing and musical skills of its’ members though the use of quality song literature and joyous activities.

Goals

The primary goal of the Athens Children’s Chorus is to provide the opportunity for children in grades 3 through 9 to experience enjoyment and participation in a children’s choral music program while focusing on healthy and expressive singing habits, rehearsal and performance techniques, and music reading skills. Other goals of the ensemble include: the development proper vocal technique, developing an understanding of musical concepts by singing quality music appropriate to the child voice from a variety of periods and a wide range of styles and cultures, encouraging personal and social growth of members and promote their sense of self-worth, accomplishment, and pride, and contributing to the cultural life of the members and the broader community.

Structure

The full chorus is divided into two smaller ensembles.

Apprentices ~ Boys and girls in grades 3 and above, no audition required
Focus on: developing healthy singing habits; learning appropriate rehearsal and ensemble techniques; learning to read simple melodies and rhythms; singing unison songs, partner songs, and canons

Advanced Ensemble ~ Boys and girls in grades 5-9, audition required
Focus on: continuing the development of healthy vocal skills and appropriate rehearsal and ensemble techniques; reading more complex melodies and rhythms; singing 2- and 3- part music

Staff

Melanie Horne – Director
Mrs. Horne teaches K-6 general music at East and West Elementary schools in Athens and has been the director of the Athens Children’s Chorus since 1999. In addition, Mrs. Horne has taught K-8 general music in schools in the Pittsburgh area, worked as a church organist and choir director, and served as accompanist and intern with Children’s Festival Chorus of Pittsburgh as well as accompanist of Hocking County Children’s Chorus.
Mrs. Horne holds a B.S. in Music Education from Duquesne University and a Master of Music Education with Kodaly Emphasis from Capital University, where she was the recipient of the Gregory Von Stein Scholarship. She holds a Level 3 Kodaly Certificate and Level 3 Orff Certification as well as memberships in the Organization of Kodaly Educators, American Orff-Schulwerk Association, American Choral Director’s Association, and Music Educators National Conference.

History

Founded in 1987 by previous director Marsha Reilly, the Athens Children’s Chorus is an ensemble of the Athens Community Music School. Open to boys (with unchanged voices) and girls in grades 3-9, the Chorus is comprised of two groups. The Apprentice Ensemble is a non-auditioned training group for children in 3rd grade and above. The Advanced Ensemble is an auditioned group for children in grades 5 through 9. Under the direction of Mrs. Melanie Horne since 1999, the Chorus currently includes 49 members. Rehearsals are held weekly at the School of Music at Ohio University. In addition to the chorus’ own concerts, the Athens Children’s Chorus has been featured in performances with the Ohio University Opera Theater, Athens Communiversity Band, the Singing Men of Ohio, and Women’s Chorale, among others.