The Shuswap Music Festival reports that six choirs are registered to sing on the evening of Tuesday, April 24.
Unfortunately any choirs serving young people will not be heard. There is every evidence that the future of choral singing in this community is in jeopardy.
I would urge that the school board and the school administrators restore choral music to a high level of priority.
Anyone who attends choir concerts can instantly recognize the values of choral music to adults of all ages and backgrounds: social connections, physical health and particularly, mental health. Friends have told me how much singing has helped them through rough periods in their life.
If schools remember this highest form of art at budget times and when hiring staff members, we will ensure a strong future for this most pleasurable activity. If a teacher keen on singing is hired there is a good chance that singing can be offered to interested students even if it is only as a extra-curricular activity.
Those readers who agree with this can help by forwarding this letter to the school authorities and by raising the topic at the appropriate meetings.
Tom Brighouse