Children & Youth Programs
Children’s & Youth Programs
Cantare helps children and adolescents find their voice by cultivating safe, supportive, fun, compassionate, respectful, and welcoming spaces where they experience the joy of music from diverse traditions through our multicultural curriculum.
Our programs for young people bring the power and beauty of choral music to kindergarten through 12th grade students from underserved Oakland neighborhoods. Led by experienced teaching artists, our in-school music education classes and after-school choirs bring high-quality, tuition-free music instruction to 2,400 students from 7 partner schools.
Students engaged in our choirs and classes develop self-esteem, discipline, respect for teamwork, a sense of belonging, and positive social behavior—all essential tools for living successful and productive lives—while also gaining an understanding and appreciation for singing, music, and artistic expression.
“I have seen the impact that Cantare’s programs have on our children in several schools. I’m impressed that each program is tailored specifically to the demographics and interests of the children in the school, that teachers and principals are engaged and learning with the children, that lessons accompany the music, and that children perform in public settings beyond their classroom.”
“I enjoy coming to choir because it gives me a sense of confidence. Choir is where I get to express how I feel through music. I love being with other people who share a passion for music. I feel accomplished because we go through hard work and in the end it turns out great.”
Welcome
Amanda Hahn,
Teaching Artist
We are delighted to introduce Amanda Hahn, the newest addition to our teaching artist team. Amanda, a certified Orff-Schulwerk music and movement teacher, has been offering music education in a variety of Bay Area settings for more than 20 years. Students appreciate her playful approach and are eager to explore rhythm and singing in her creative classes.
More about Amanda here.
Meet the 2021-22
Nova Leadership Team
Coco Harrison, Prathana Pandey,
Joaquin Pellegrin-Alvarez & Nai Trawick (not shown)
A warm welcome to this year’s Nova Leadership Team. The peer-nominated group includes 7th grader Prathana Pandey, 10th grader Coco Harrison, and 11th graders Joaquin Pellegrin-Alvarez, and Nai Trawick. The team’s focus includes community-building activities to help nurture a positive, inclusive culture and sustain standards of excellence for all choir singers.
More about the Nova Student Leadership Team here. More about Nova here.
In-school music lessons
kindergarten–grade 5
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After-school choirs
grades 3–5
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After-school choir
grades 6–12
>>Learn More
Julie Haydon | Director of Children’s and Youth Choirs
Julie Haydon began her service with Cantare in 2000, overseeing the after-school choir programs. In 2008, she founded Nova, an auditioned choir open to any 6th to 12th grade students. Under Julie’s leadership, Cantare received the Chorus American Education and Community Engagement Award in 2005 and 2014. Julie served as Director of Music Ministry at Trinity Lutheran Church in Alameda for nine years, directing choral music from diverse traditions. During her tenure, she directed adult and youth choir singers, and the handbell choir. She also founded “Joyful Noise! Community Children’s Choir” at Trinity.
Janet Venturino | Vice President
Janet Venturino is a marketing consultant with expertise in brand messaging, marketing strategy, and creative execution. In August 2020 she retired from a 30-year career at Kaiser Permanente, where as Vice President she helped employers and members thrive through marketing and communications. Her relationship with Cantare began in 2020, consulting on strategic planning and brand positioning. On the Board, she helps Cantare share its story of inclusiveness and community engagement. Janet is a board member of Fresh Approach and a member of the Assistance League of Diablo Valley. She earned her BS in journalism (magna cum laude) from San Jose State University. Janet and her husband John live in Concord where they enjoy hiking, cycling, and rolling in the Clayton Valley Bocce League. She sings to her granddaughter Ada.