Dear BYC Families,  

As promised, we are happy to finally share our plans for Fall 2020! As you probably expect, the first semester will be taught online. We will monitor health restrictions through the winter and re-evaluate for our spring semester, potentially including in-person training in small groups. 

Virtual teaching will be available through two tracks:

Musicianship Training:
Intermezzo Level (third grade) and older 

One weekly class, taught by the intrepid duo of Nicholas Gorne and Nathan Shiu, will focus on preparing thoughtful and independent musicians.  

Musicianship skills such as solfège, takadimi rhythms, scales, modes, and sight-reading will provide the foundation for more confident music-making. 

One class will operate weekly with the option to add another class depending on registration numbers.  

Music Beyond:
Topic Workshops, open to all 

One weekly workshop, taught by a rotating cast of guest artists and musicians, will focus on a new vocal music topic each month. Some ideas for topics include Musical Theatre, Jazz, Gospel - and so much more. We look forward to learning with you! 

Music Beyond will be offered as an annual or monthly membership plan, and BYC is excited to take advantage of the online platform by offering these workshops to BYC choristers, friends, and families regardless of physical location.  That means your friend or relative who lives in a different state, country, or continent can join us! 

We are looking for musicians to teach these workshops! If you know a music teacher, performer, or scholar who may be interested, please reach out to us. 

As the BYC Staff and Board reflect on our program and our values during this time of uncertainty, we identified a deep desire to teach authentic music to our choristers. As we reaffirm our commitment to celebrate a variety of cultures and musical styles, we embrace this unique opportunity to learn from new voices.  

We’ll be sending out more information soon. Until then: 

- Mark your calendars for registration to open the week of July 6th

- Ask your friends and music teachers if they’d like to teach a Music Beyond workshop 

- Ask your choristers what topics they’re interested in! Email their answers to [email protected]  

- Get your friends and family excited for BYC to return in September! 

Best, 

Madeleine Stephens, BYC Executive Director

Nicholas Gorne, BYC Artistic Director