A Cycle of Giving: Transforming Individuals, Transforming Community in a Louisiana Children's Choir

• In Event: 31.092 - Sheraton Roundtable Session Three - Grand Centre
  In Roundtable Session: 31.092-5 - Music Education Beyond Traditional Public School Settings

Abstract

Kids’ Choir, a community children’s choir in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, formed in 2014 as part of the Kids’ Orchestra organization. This intrinsic case study examined Kids’ Orchestra’s philosophy of social development through musical experiences and documented the teaching and learning paradigms associated with this philosophy. I explored the impact of Kids’ Choir participation on the choristers from the perspective of teachers, staff, parents, and the children.

Findings revealed benefits of increased development in choristers’ resilience through holistic education highlighted by increased confidence, maturity development, and social development. Further, findings illuminated evidence of a cycle of giving through access, encouraging acceptance and compassion, and community education and enrichment. Finally, I discussed transforming individuals as a means of transforming communities.

Author

• Jason Paul Bowers, Louisiana State University