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In February of 1993, two middle school
teachers approached the Alabama ACDA Board about sponsoring
a choral festival dedicated to younger choral students and
their directors. Founders of this festival recognized the
need to promote a statewide event that would provide a high
level of choral instruction and performance for youngsters
in upper elementary and middle school. The Alabama ACDA
agreed and enthusiastically voted to endorse the Young
Voices Festival. The festival committed to provide a
positive, quality choral experience for young singers in the
state of Alabama. The first Young
Voices Festival was held in 1993. Three choirs for students in 4th - 9th
grade was the original format. The two day event had over 350 students
from across the state participate in the first festival. The Young Voices
Festival has evolved to include four choirs for students 4th - 9th grade
and a performance by the combined choirs to conclude the concert. The
1999 Young Voices Festival saw the original 'Children's Choir' split into
a 'Children Girls Choir' and a 'Children Boys Choir'. With over 800 young
students participating in the 2000 YVF it is clear the Alabama ACDA Young
Voices Festival will continue for a very long time!
Shirley Ellison
shirlellison@mac.com