
In an exciting development, Jeremiah Brown, a talented undergraduate music education student at GSU, has been selected as a participant in the prestigious Lift Every Voice Symposium held at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. This mentoring program, co-sponsored by the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), aims to nurture and support young choral conductors from underrepresented groups. This year's program is specifically tailored to serve conductors of color, and Jeremiah Brown's selection highlights his exceptional talent and potential in the field of choral conducting.
"I feel so honored to have Dr. Joseph, Dr. Solya, and the Lift Every Voice symposium organizers consider me for this amazing event," says Brown. "I would like to thank them for seeing my artistry and musicianship. I am extremely excited to work with notable conductors, choirs, and fellow conductor undergrads. Lastly, I am just so grateful for this opportunity and for Dr. Joseph nominating me as it will allow me to grow as a fine conductor."
The Lift Every Voice Symposium, now in its 13th year, has earned a reputation for identifying and empowering promising conductors and providing them with a unique and enriching experience. Six young conductors of color, including Jeremiah Brown, along with ACDA members who are nearing the completion of their undergraduate music studies, will converge on the University of Illinois campus for a week-long immersion in the world of choral conducting.
Throughout the program, the participants will have the opportunity to work closely with an outstanding faculty comprising experienced conductor-teachers, including renowned figures like Anton Armstrong, Fernando Malvar-Ruiz, Pearl Shangkuan, Andre Thomas, and esteemed faculty members from the University of Illinois. This exceptional line-up of mentors ensures that the young conductors will receive top-notch instruction and guidance throughout the symposium.
The week's schedule is packed with various activities designed to hone their conducting skills and deepen their understanding of the choral landscape. Participants will be engaged in private conducting lessons, conducting classes, and will have the privilege to participate in graduate-level choral courses. Additionally, there will be sessions focusing on underrepresented composers, rehearsal techniques, and round-table discussions addressing the day-to-day challenges faced by choral conductors of color. One of the highlights of the symposium will be a closing performance where all participants will have the opportunity to rehearse and conduct University of Illinois ensembles. This performance, which will be the opening concert of the IL-ACDA Fall Conference, promises to be a momentous occasion for these talented young conductors.
An essential aspect of the Lift Every Voice Symposium is its commitment to ensuring that all participants can fully engage in the program without financial barriers. Thanks to the Choral Music Engagement Fund at the University of Illinois, all travel costs, housing, and tuition will be covered for Jeremiah and his fellow participants.
The Lift Every Voice Symposium has long been a platform for fostering diversity and inclusivity within the choral community. By empowering young conductors of color like Jeremiah, the program continues to make a lasting impact on the world of choral music, fostering a more vibrant and representative future. "We are so proud of Jeremiah for this significant and notable accomplishment," says Dr. Deanna Joseph, Director of Choral Activities who nominated Jeremiah for this opportunity. "He's distinguished himself as a standout undergraduate music student on a national level. We all look forward to hearing about the wonderful experiences he will have at this conference upon his return."
As Jeremiah prepares to take part in this extraordinary opportunity, the University of Illinois and the ACDA extend their congratulations to him and express their enthusiasm for the talent he will undoubtedly bring to the 2023 Lift Every Voice Symposium.
Read more about Jeremiah's involvement in last year's Black History Month concert "Till Victory is Won" with the GSU School of Music.
About the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign The University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign is a renowned public research university known for its excellence in education, diverse academic offerings, and commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment.
About American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) The ACDA is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the choral profession and promoting excellence in choral music through education, performance, composition, and advocacy. Their initiatives include mentoring programs like Lift Every Voice to support aspiring choral conductors from underrepresented communities.
