Aveline Kirana
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a significant multiyear program titled "Sing Democracy 250" is poised to resonate across the nation, aiming to unite communities and inspire a renewed commitment to democratic ideals through the profound power of music. Spearheaded by Artistic Director G. Phillip Shoultz, III, the initiative brings together youth and adult choirs from across the country, fostering a shared exploration of the Declaration of Independence’s enduring legacy. In an era marked by significant societal divisions, "Sing Democracy 250" endeavors to bridge these gaps, particularly by engaging younger generations and connecting them to the foundational principles and aspirations of the American experiment. The program’s core philosophy is rooted in the pursuit of a "more perfect union," leveraging music’s capacity to cultivate community and foster a collective responsibility for building a brighter future.
Genesis and Vision of "Sing Democracy 250"
The conceptual seeds for "Sing Democracy 250" were sown in 2017 by Gary Aamodt and Celia Ellingson, the visionary founders of the "Together In Hope Project." This Minneapolis-based nonprofit organization is dedicated to developing unique, music-centric initiatives designed to address pressing societal needs and to serve as catalysts for healing and reconciliation. Shoultz elaborated on the program’s inception, highlighting its ambitious scope: "Sing Democracy 250 aims to ignite a nationwide movement. From every state in this nation, the power of song will ring out in 2026, a symphony of unity and hope, echoing the words of the Declaration of Independence."
The overarching objective, as articulated by Shoultz, is to inspire a proactive engagement with democracy. "It is our hope that Sing Democracy 250 will inspire Americans to do their part to strengthen this democracy. Democracy depends on all of us. We, the people, are the key. This is our time to fulfill democracy’s promise." This sentiment underscores a deep-seated belief in the agency of every citizen and the transformative potential of collective action. The program is particularly focused on nurturing a new generation of citizens, equipping them with a profound understanding of their civic responsibilities and a steadfast belief in the enduring promise of democratic governance.
A Deep Dive into Preparations and Participatory Engagement
The intricate process of bringing "Sing Democracy 250" to fruition has been a testament to meticulous planning and dedicated artistic direction. Shoultz’s involvement spans two years, commencing with the foundational phase of selecting participants for the "Together In Hope Choir." This core ensemble, comprised of fifty singers from Minneapolis, serves as the anchor for the program’s four signature concert performances scheduled in Philadelphia, Minneapolis, New York City, and Washington, D.C.
The "Together In Hope Choir" has been engaged in intensive musical preparation for over a year, participating in quarterly retreats. These gatherings were not solely dedicated to rehearsing the repertoire but also served as vital forums for in-depth discussions on the thematic relevance of the music to contemporary American society. Following this foundational work, the project team meticulously identified and invited choirs and orchestras from each of the four host cities to join the endeavor. These regional ensembles then embarked on their individual preparation processes, culminating in visits from Shoultz prior to the intensive residency periods that precede the major performances.
Curating a Musical Narrative of American Ideals and Realities
The selection of musical works for "Sing Democracy 250" was a deliberate and thoughtful process, designed to encapsulate the program’s thematic objectives. Shoultz explained the foundational choices: "We knew we wanted to include our nation’s anthems, ‘Star Spangled Banner’ and ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing,’ as the bookends to the program. So, I created an a cappella arrangement of each for us to use." This strategic placement of these iconic pieces aims to frame the concert experience with symbols of national identity and aspirations for equality.
Beyond these anthems, the program features two significant commissioned works, each offering a unique perspective on the American narrative. Gary Aamodt and Celia Ellingson curated the texts for these commissions, with one piece, "Redeem the Dream," composed by Dr. Brandon A. Boyd, a professor at the University of Missouri. This work is deeply informed by the writings of Langston Hughes, providing a poignant historical context that acknowledges the nation’s struggles to fully realize its stated ideals. "That work sets the context for where we’ve been and how America has not always lived up to the ideals it espouses," Shoultz noted.
The second commissioned work, titled "US," is the creation of composer Michael Bussewitz-Quarm, based in Long Island. This piece draws inspiration from Richard Haas’s book, "The Bill of Obligations." Aamodt and Ellingson meticulously selected a series of 33 quotes from a diverse array of thinkers, spanning the ideological spectrum, to inform this composition. These selected quotes serve as a powerful invitation for introspection, prompting individuals to consider their personal contributions toward fulfilling the promise of democracy. As Shoultz explained, "The two commissioned works were written specifically for this project and were designed to be sung together." This intentional design suggests a complementary relationship between the pieces, fostering a richer and more nuanced dialogue on American identity and civic responsibility.
Rehearsal Modalities: A Tailored Approach to Youth Engagement
The logistical challenges of coordinating rehearsals for a nationwide program involving numerous youth choirs are substantial. Shoultz acknowledged the variability in rehearsal schedules: "This is a tricky question to answer. In each location, the amount of rehearsals is different. Some of the young singers are part of a community choir that rehearses once a week. Others are part of a school choir that rehearses daily." This diversity in rehearsal frequency reflects the different organizational structures of participating youth ensembles, ranging from school-based choirs with daily access to students to community choirs operating on a weekly basis. Regardless of the frequency, each participating group commenced their preparation efforts approximately three to four months in advance of the collective performances. This extended lead time is crucial for ensuring musical proficiency and thematic understanding among the young participants.
Artistic and Educational Foundations of the Artistic Director
G. Phillip Shoultz, III’s multifaceted background as an artist, educator, and pastoral musician provides a profound grounding for his leadership of "Sing Democracy 250." His musical journey began at the tender age of three with his first solo at the Fourth Street Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. This early immersion in sacred music was further enriched by his participation in the Columbus Boy Choir, which afforded him the opportunity to travel extensively as a young singer. Music continued to play a central role throughout his high school and college years, where he began to accompany worship services and lead musical ensembles.
A pivotal moment in Shoultz’s artistic development occurred during his junior year at the University of Georgia. When the director of the Men’s Glee Club, Dr. E. Pierce Arant, fell ill, Shoultz was entrusted with the responsibility of leading his peers in performance. Dr. Arant’s confidence in Shoultz’s capabilities proved instrumental, solidifying his calling as a leader of vocal ensembles. This formative experience propelled him to refine his skills as an educator. He has since dedicated his career to teaching middle school, directing community-based choirs that encompass singers of all ages, and serving a diverse array of churches across various denominations, including Missionary Baptist, African Methodist Episcopal, Lutheran, United Methodist, and Presbyterian traditions. This extensive experience across educational, community, and religious settings has equipped Shoultz with a unique ability to connect with diverse groups and to harness the unifying power of music.
The Imperative of Public Support for "Sing Democracy 250"
Shoultz articulates a compelling case for public support of "Sing Democracy 250," framing the program’s mission as both straightforward and deeply significant. "I think people should support this program because our mission is simple yet profound. We seek to bring people together across the lines that divide into community to celebrate our shared humanity, and to recommit to the promise of a ‘more perfect union.’" This call to action emphasizes the program’s role in fostering connection and collective recommitment to fundamental American ideals, particularly relevant during periods of social fragmentation.
Music as a Unifying Force in Contentious Times
In the current sociopolitical climate, characterized by polarization and division, Shoultz views the message of "Sing Democracy 250" as exceptionally pertinent. He states, "We are musicians, singers, artists, and advocates, all bound by the belief that music can bridge the gaps and mend the divides." This conviction is grounded in the understanding that music possesses an innate ability to transcend cultural barriers and unite individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Historical analysis supports this assertion, demonstrating music’s profound impact on social movements throughout history. From powerful protest songs that articulated dissent to anthems of solidarity that fostered collective action, music has consistently served as a vehicle for expressing grievances, promoting unity, and inspiring transformative change. Shoultz elaborates on this power: "Music is a language that transcends cultural boundaries and can unite people of different backgrounds. Throughout history, music has played a crucial role in social movements. From protest songs to anthems of solidarity, music has been used to express dissent, promote unity, and inspire change. Music has the power to connect people and create a stronger community." This perspective underscores the program’s potential not only as a cultural event but as a vital force for civic engagement and societal cohesion.
Broader Implications and the Promise of a "More Perfect Union"
The "Sing Democracy 250" initiative arrives at a critical juncture in American history, as the nation grapples with defining its identity and future trajectory in anticipation of its semiquincentennial. The program’s emphasis on youth engagement suggests a strategic investment in the future of democratic participation. By fostering a connection to the nation’s founding principles and encouraging active civic involvement through the shared experience of music, the program aims to cultivate a generation of informed and engaged citizens.
The commissioning of new works that explicitly address the complexities of American ideals and obligations further enriches the discourse surrounding democracy. "Redeem the Dream" and "US" serve as artistic touchstones, prompting reflection on historical realities and contemporary responsibilities. The inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives within the curated texts and musical compositions reflects a commitment to a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of the American narrative.
The program’s structure, with its anchor choir and regional collaborations, promotes a sense of national interconnectedness. The performances in key historical cities – Philadelphia, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence; Minneapolis, a hub of civic engagement; New York City, a global center of culture; and Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital – are strategically chosen to amplify the message of unity and shared purpose.
The success of "Sing Democracy 250" could serve as a powerful model for other civic and cultural initiatives seeking to address societal divisions. By demonstrating the tangible impact of collaborative artistic endeavors, the program offers a hopeful pathway toward a more unified and engaged citizenry, actively working to fulfill the enduring promise of a "more perfect union." The upcoming performances are anticipated to draw significant attention, not only for their artistic merit but for their potent message of hope and reconciliation on the eve of a historic national milestone.
