Learn to sing and make new friends!
Mission
Vivace Children's Chorus
builds confidence and artistry in young singers through exceptional vocal training, inspiring performances, and joyful, collaborative experiences that strengthen our community.
Program Benefits
Vocal Technique
Learn proper breathing, posture, and vocal production techniques in a healthy, age-appropriate way
Cultural awareness
Exposure to diverse musical styles and traditions that broaden cultural understanding
Leadership
Regular performance opportunities that build stage presence and overcome performance anxiety
Music Literacy
Build sight-reading skills, music theory knowledge, and cognitive abilities enhanced by music education
Collaboration
Develop listening skills, teamwork, and the ability to blend individual voices into ensemble singing
Self-expression
Gain confidence in performance and develop artistic expression through varied musical repertoire
Dr. Ingrid Lestrud
Dr. Ingrid Lestrud is a conductor and educator whose passion for music and singing began in early childhood. After studying vocal performance as an undergraduate, she pursued graduate work in conducting and earned her Doctor of Music degree from Northwestern University. She subsequently sang with the Chicago Symphony Chorus under Riccardo Muti for several seasons, performing in their Grammy-winning recording of Verdi's Requiem.
Dr. Lestrud served as Voice Department Chair at the Merit School of Music in Chicago, a community music school serving over 6,000 students with a focus on underserved communities. In this role, she collaborated with the Lyric Opera of Chicago and Renée Fleming to develop curriculum for the Solo Voice Program, and her choir performed with Ms. Fleming at special events.
She has taught on the faculties of several colleges and in 2022 won the Mid-Atlantic Teaching Artists Innovate + Create contest for Performers With Purpose, a youth ensemble she founded that combines choral music with community service projects. As a former Principal Associate Conductor of the Grammy-winning National Children's Chorus, she prepared young singers for performances at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and the Kennedy Center.
Dr. Lestrud founded Vivace Children's Chorus to provide exceptional choral music education to young singers in eastern Montgomery County. She has been invited to conduct a world premiere at Carnegie Hall in 2027 and looks forward to offering Vivace students the opportunity to perform at this prestigious venue.
"My child has thrived in this musically enriching program. She has enjoyed learning new concepts and skills, making new friends, and participating in once in a lifetime opportunities to work with professional musicians."
- Erin Lebo
