In This Issue: Star of the North

March 2026

By Richard Carrick

It has been a profoundly challenging time to be a teacher and musician. And yet, I’m not sure I’ve ever been more proud to be a Minnesotan. In recent weeks, many of us have witnessed neighbors showing up peacefully—singing in the streets—protesting the horrible things happening to people in our communities. This isn’t partisan. It’s human. And in a very real way, Minnesotans have been showing up, singing for our lives.

In this issue, you’ll find stories that reflect the many ways choral musicians keep showing up: in classrooms, on podiums, in sanctuaries, in community spaces, and in places where dignity most needs defending. 

Here are a few highlights and resources to help you stay connected to all the things happening in ACDA-MN:

Inside ACDA 

Stay up to date with everything happening across our state—events, updates, opportunities, and Star of the North information—through Inside ACDA. You’ll find information about the IDEA fund, including two stories of recent grant recipients. You can also read about some volunteer opportunities, Honor Choir information, and State Elections. Finally, save the dates for Summer Dialogue 2026! Planning is underway for ACDA-MN Summer Dialogue, July 29–31, at Concordia College (Moorhead). The planning team is led by State Vice President Jerry Upton, with registration expected to open in May.

Star Program

This issue’s Star Program highlights the New Prague High School choral program and its student-centered, student-led culture—where repertoire choices, leadership, and creative ownership build both excellence and belonging. You’ll also read powerful student perspectives on what happens when choir becomes a place that feels like home.

Commissioning Corner — celebrating Minnesota composers

Laura Krider’s Commissioning Corner offers a practical, joy-filled resource guide spotlighting Minnesota choral composer creativity—plus updates on premieres, albums, and works in development.

Voices from the Districts — singing that sustains

You’ll find meaningful district features, including work that centers health, memory, dignity, and community. One example is Singing to Remember: The Emergence of Memory Choirs, which explores why music can remain accessible even as dementia impacts other forms of memory—and how “memory choirs” are expanding across Minnesota communities.

As we navigate a world that can feel increasingly fractured—and as AI reshapes so much of how we live and work—coming together to sing remains one of the most profoundly human things we do. We breathe together. We listen. We belong. And in Minnesota, we keep showing up: for our students, for our congregations, for our neighbors, and for one another… singing for our lives, for our whole life long.

Richard Carrick
Managing Editor
Star of the North