Voices from the District – Spring 2026

Singing in Community Through the Ages

Shaun Halland

Metro East District Chair

Each Thursday morning, I spend twenty minutes teaching music to a group of 50 preschool children, ages one to five. We move our bodies, sing, connect with one another, and even begin learning solfège—yes, they can absolutely do that. This comes on the heels of my regular Wednesday evening rehearsal with my church choir, whose members range in age from 16 to 90. In many ways, we do the same things: we move, we listen, we sing, and we continue to grow together, regardless of age or ability.

I have been fortunate to work with singers in every chapter of life through my work as both a church musician and a teacher. We know the value of singing across the lifespan. Singing supports our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being—this is not just anecdotal, but supported by study after study. Those of us “in the know” continue to advocate for this work, urging administrators and leaders to recognize its importance and sustain it within our institutions. And yet, we also know how challenging that can be for each new generation of choral musicians.

Many of you have shared your frustration at having to constantly defend the work you do. Too often, we find ourselves pulled away from the heart of our calling to justify its existence—to sit in meetings, present research, and make the case for something we know to be inherently valuable. We cite evidence, tell stories and demonstrate impact, only to feel unheard. Programs are reduced, priorities shift and the worth of our work is questioned. I have experienced firsthand what it feels like to hear “no” repeatedly, and I understand the toll it takes. Some of you have even wondered how much longer you can continue in this work, and that reality is deeply painful.

And yet—despite all of this—singing endures.

Singers will always find their way to one another. They will gather in classrooms, sanctuaries, and community spaces to create something meaningful together. In a world that often feels fragmented, communal singing remains a powerful force for connection, beauty, and healing.

I see this resilience every day in you, my colleagues. I see teachers going above and beyond—traveling with students, preparing them for honor choirs, and opening doors to transformative musical experiences. I see church musicians building bridges between communities, creating opportunities for collaboration, and nurturing spaces where people feel seen, valued, and connected through song.

It is my hope that we, as a community of music leaders, continue to find inspiration and renewed purpose in our work. While at times you may feel isolated in your efforts to bring singing to your singers, please remember that you are not alone. There is a wide network of colleagues who stand beside you—sharing in both the challenges and the joys of this calling.

Continue to reach out to one another for support, encouragement, and understanding. Our shared experiences—both the struggles and the successes—can serve as a source of strength

and guidance. In listening to one another and learning from one another, we not only sustain ourselves, but strengthen the future of our work.

Organizations like ACDA-MN exist to support and uplift you through the sharing of ideas, resources, and community. Lean into this network of educators and church musicians. Allow it to be a place where you are reminded of why you began this work, and why it continues to matter.

Together, we can continue to nurture singing communities that enrich lives, build connections and ensure that the power of song endures for generations to come.

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