Columbia Choirs of Metropolitan Seattle

Arreon Harley Emerson Residency

Arreon Harley Emerson Residency

Columbia Choirs is pleased to welcome Arreon Harley-Emerson this November for a weeklong residency. In this season of reflection and growth, Arreon’s visit allows us the rare opportunity to learn from one of our nation’s leading experts on the concepts of accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Throughout the week, Arreon will consult with staff and board members and host workshops with our singers on gospel music and spirituals. 

The residency will culminate in a special performance workshop featuring all 8 choirs on Saturday, November 16th. Arreon will lead singers and audience alike in learning more about music of the African American tradition by sharing historical and cultural background information and inviting the audience to participate in song.

The Gospel Way
Workshop Series

ATTN: Conductors and Music Educators! Columbia Choirs is pleased to host two FREE gospel workshops in November with guest clinician Arreon Harley-Emerson, CEO of Equity Sings and national chair of ACDA’s diversity initiatives committee.

WORKSHOP #1
RESPONSIBLY SELECTING AND TEACHING GOSPEL MUSIC
Wednesday, November 13
3:00-4:30pm
Redmond High School (Band Room)

WORKSHOP #2
AUTHENTICALLY CONDUCTING GOSPEL MUSIC
Friday, November 15
5:00-6:30pm
Redmond High School (Band Room)

Register for one or both of our upcoming workshops at https://www.cognitoforms.com/ColumbiaChoirs/ArreonHarleyEmersonWorkshopSeries!

Participants will learn strategies for integrating gospel music into their concerts and curriculum, improving teaching techniques, and fostering inclusivity. This is a valuable opportunity to gain insights from a leading expert. Come ready to sing, experiment, and learn!

Shine On Me!
Showcase + Performance

Join us as our week-long residency with Arreon Harley-Emerson culminates in a community performance featuring all eight ensembles of Columbia Choirs, including children, youth, and adult singers. This performance will showcase music of the Black experience.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16 | 2:30PM
St. John Vianney Kirkland (Finn Hill)
12600 84th Avenue NE Kirkland, WA 98034

  • Listen to gospel, spiritual selections, and more
  • Learn about cultural and historical background of this music from our guest clinician
  • Sing! Audience participation throughout

Donations will be collected at the door. 25% of all proceeds will be sent to Hopelink.