An Invitation to Share Your Voice in Minnetonka

“Every song is an invitation” according to Music Association of Minnetonka Concert Choir Director, Cynthia Bradford. “When audiences come to our concerts we hope our songs will invite them to explore new ideas, to savor pleasant memories, or to experience exciting new sounds.” She adds, “Songs are also an invitation for our singers to learn more about themselves by challenging their intellect and learning new ways to express their feelings and dreams through wonderful music.”

The Music Association of Minnetonka (M.A.M.) is inviting students who will enter grades 3 – 12 in the fall to join them on Buddy Day, Thursday, April 14, from 6:00 – 7:30 PM, at the Arts Center on 7 (on the campus of Minnetonka High School, 18285 Highway Seven, Minnetonka, MN). Children and their parents are invited to sit in on a rehearsal. Students will join with current members as they prepare music for upcoming concerts. “We feel that this will give new singers a real idea of what it’s like to sing in M.A.M.” stated Bradford. She cautions children not to be nervous about visiting. Previous singing experience for Buddy Day is not a pre-requisite, as several levels of choral participation are available.

The Music Association of Minnetonka offers three youth choirs (Cappella for students in grades 3 – 5, Concert Choir for grades 6 – 8 and Chamber Choir for high school treble singers) as well as adult choruses, orchestras and a concert band. Founded by Dr. Roger Hoel over forty years ago, the mission of the association is based on the belief that music has the power to build community.

An advocate for a life-long singing, Bradford feels the Music Association of Minnetonka may be different than other community groups. “I’ve simply fallen in love with M.A.M after moving to Minnesota.” says the recently-retired music educator from the Chicagoland suburbs. “I’ve loved teaching hundreds of students throughout my career, but working in the supportive community setting that Roger has designed in Minnetonka brings out the best in each student – all while performing music of the highest caliber. It’s a joy.” Of special interest to her is the ability for singers to challenge themselves musically, while making friends with similar interest in a non-competitive, supportive way.

“The Concert Choir rehearsals are more like collaborations.” says Bradford. “Sure, I’m the director and I’m ‘in charge’ so to speak, but the kids are so intuitive about music and have such great ideas, I can’t help but open it up for their suggestions. They never disappoint me.”

There is no cost to attend the Buddy Day event on April 14, but organizers ask that interested singers call the Music Association Office at (952) 401 5954 to register. Students will be assigned to the appropriate age-level ensemble and provided information about fees and activities planned for the 2016- 2017 season. Sign-ups for voice check auditions will be held on April 30, and May 1, for the 2016 – 2017 season and openings are available in all three youth ensembles. The Music Association of Minnetonka youth choir season runs from September through May.