In 2015, I moved back to Tacoma from Vancouver, Washington. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that being able to enroll my daughters, Audrey and Elinor, in Tacoma Youth Chorus was in my top two reasons why Tacoma was where I wanted to land.
My experiences in TYC made me more than a singer. TYC taught me a growth mindset: to struggle through something new and to improve with repetition and feedback. I remember thinking I hated a song that was difficult or didn’t sound good at first and then realizing it had become my favorite. Being in choir showed me the value of community. I knew that, at TYC, I would see my TYC bestie, a person who “got me” in a way that people at school didn’t and I was going to a place full of kids from different areas with different experiences and we all connected through music.
I didn’t realize it at the time, but I know now, as a teacher, the intentionality and effort behind fostering a community of young people who work together, value themselves and others, while also learning new things and excelling at them. Kids thrive when they have those soft skills, which support success and happiness beyond the walls of a choir room or stage. I wanted this for my little girls and I’m watching it take shape as they continue in TYC as a Sophomore and, (gulp) a Senior.
I think we need more of this in our world. But this doesn’t just happen. TYC is a non-profit and behind every effective non- profit are donors. If you value your experience in TYC like I do and hope to see the legacy continue, please consider a donation.