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Children's and Youth Programs
Cantare children's and youth programs bring choral music education to K-12 students in underserved Oakland neighborhoods. Through in-school music education and after-school choirs, our program removes barriers of access so that 2,350 students at 7 partner schools and sites can find their voices with high quality, tuition-free music instruction.
70% of the students we serve are economically disadvantaged. 40% of them are English Language learners.
"My students loved Mr. Tan's weekly Zoom music lessons and 'attended' them every week since we have sheltered in place. The lessons had an effective mix of singing, movement, and theory and were very well-paced. Thank you to Mr. Tan for providing the students a sense of normalcy and connection to school during this pandemic crisis."
– 2nd grade teacher, Lincoln Elementary
With a multicultural curriculum, students gain not just a lifelong interest in the arts, but an understanding and appreciation of both their differences and the things that unite them. They experience what is possible when working alongside others toward a common goal. Students develop self-esteem, discipline, respect for teamwork, and healthy social behavior—all essential tools for living successful and productive lives.
In-school music lessons for grades TK-5 as an integral part of school coursework.
Advanced choir for 6-12 graders from any school.
After-school choirs for grades 3-5.
Interested in joining Cantare choirs or bringing music to your school?
“I enjoy coming to choir because it gives me a sense of confidence. Choir is a place 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.”
– Arlette, 9th grader
“I have personally seen the impact that Cantare’s programs have had on our children in several schools. What I’m impressed with is 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 so that the learning can extend beyond the music time, and that children get to perform in public settings beyond just their classroom.”
–Gary Yee, OUSD Superintendent
"We recently attended a choir performance for Lunar New Year and were so impressed...[the students'] faces were beaming with pride as they sang a range of songs from contemporary to traditional.... We look forward to when our kindergartener is old enough to join the choir!"
– Young Whan, Parent, Lincoln Elementary
Meet Our Teaching Artists
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Vincent Academy
Hillcrest Elementary
Piano Accompanist
Piano Accompanist