Words by Elizabeth Ho OAM, Fellow of the University of SA
Are you the typical busy parent? Are you looking for a fun interest for your child that does not break the bank or take up the whole weekend?
Perhaps your child isn’t really into sports, is more interested in the creative side of life, or doesn’t make friends easily. Maybe you’re struggling with screen-time limits, your child has dyslexia and you’ve heard that music can help with learning and confidence, or you just want them to socialise more in a team setting. Maybe they love trying out new, fun activities?
By hearing new words in a song, children can learn the meaning of words and how to use them correctly. Repetition also helps children to remember information, and repeating singing words is fun. And they get to tell a story. They learn the meaning of the piece and have discussions around how to sing it to make the most of that story. We use so much imagination, visualisation and creativity in this process, no matter our age.
Singing helps children to develop their language skills. By using their vocal cords to produce sound, they will develop the support needed for speaking. In addition, they get a good sense of rhythm, volume and pitch, all important factors in being a clear speaker.
So… have you ever thought about a choir for your child?
There are so many reasons kids find being in a choir exhilarating, but it is the research findings about enhanced confidence, learning and social skills that explain how singing in a choir is also really good for them! Some studies have used the PERMA well-being model to assess the impact of musical education, including choral experience.
PERMA = Positive emotions – Engagement – Relationships – Meaning – Accomplishment.
Researchers have concluded that the well-being of students of all ages, and their skills and abilities across all forms of learning, grow through musical activity. Whether it is counting and sequencing, or improved attention, or enhanced memory, or faster word recognition, there is plenty of evidence out there that choirs cognitively rock!
But choirs can do more. They are individual confidence builders, and they simultaneously create a collaborative environment around a shared interest. They naturally support relationship building, even for shy kids. You don’t have to be brilliant to be in a choir, but you are expected to be a team player. That becomes a skill for life.
And then there is breathing. Singing and breathing go together. We know that breathing well is fundamental to health. If we’re anxious we usually breathe too quickly and not deeply enough. Choral teachers ask students to do key exercises so that they can build their breath support, breathe deeply, and control their breathing. This sustains the voice and also protects it. But this skill can also flow into other situations, including exams and tests, helping students to balance stress levels when they are facing challenges.
But the biggest reward is the ‘wow’ moment, when your child finishes a concert and approaches you with a big, gleaming smile on their face! They will be so proud and excited about their choir’s achievement, and you will be smiling back!
Discover Young Adelaide Voices (YAV)
Young Adelaide Voices (YAV) is a respected not-for-profit organisation with over 35 years of experience in nurturing choral skills in young people. Catering to ages 5-17, YAV offers a variety of age-group choirs, alongside two adult choirs. Older students can take advantage of international tours, and YAV recently earned the Youth Choir category title at the International Choir Competition in Provence, France, in 2024.
YAV choirs are known for their participation in exciting events, including Carols by Candlelight, Elder Hall concerts, and performances with renowned international artists like Angelique Kidjo and Paco Peña. Their popular recordings are regularly featured on ABC Classic, and the outstanding Artistic Director Christie Anderson has received numerous awards for her work.
YAV is conveniently located across the road from the Burnside Library in Tusmore.
Ready to join the choir?
If you’re considering enrolling your child in a choir, here’s how to get started:
Contact Young Adelaide Voices at manager@yav.asn.au. Caitlin is eager to welcome your enquiry and provide details about the Come and Try sessions!
By registering your child for the Young Adelaide Voices choral school, you’re investing in their all-round potential. They’ll benefit from excellent teaching tailored to their needs and age, with no auditions until they’re 12+. Plus, your child will have opportunities to participate in public performances, music camps, and even overseas tours! With just one rehearsal per week during school terms, you’ll enjoy minimal weekend disruption—unless they’re dazzling on stage in a fantastic concert.
For more information:
