About Vocal Youth

A choral performance and early childhood music program that empowers youth in Miami

Raising empathetic, creative young people through the power of vocal music

Our vision is for all youth to experience the power of music to shape a better world.

Young people from different backgrounds and lived experiences come together to create, learn, and sing, discovering the joy of self-expression and the value of their voices.

Amplify the voices of youth in our community

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Our History

From intergenerational singing opportunities to an unforgettable Super Bowl LIV performance, Vocal Youth Miami unites diverse students from across Miami-Dade County through the universal language of music, teaching them not just to sing, but also to express and appreciate the difference and value in our individual voices. Now more important than ever, our students learn to cooperate and achieve more together than they can apart, planting seeds for lasting social change.

Throughout the season, choristers enhance their musicianship and channel their gifts and creativity in positive, productive ways that serve the community. The dedication to all-around excellence has attracted some of Miami's most talented young musicians. Celebrating over a decade of programming, Vocal Youth Miami has tripled in size and has emerged as a prominent symbol of cultural importance in Miami.

The Board of Directors has worked diligently in conjunction with individual donors and funding partners to broaden the scope of opportunities available to Vocal Youth. These opportunities establish the foundations of a life-changing music enrichment program for the children of Miami. In 2014, Vocal Youth was named one of the Knight Arts Challenge winners for a two-year transportation program, serving children in underserved areas. The program evolved into Vocal Youth's first satellite program in Florida City.

Vocal Youth choristers have had fantastic performing opportunities, including a live international television performance on Univision's Despierta America; national anthem performances for the Marlins and Miami Heat; performances at the Adrienne Arsht Center and South Miami Dade Cultural Arts Center; an unforgettable debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City; and at the Crescent City Children's Choir Festival in New Orleans. In early 2020, members of Vocal Youth represented Miami at Super Bowl LIV with a pre-game performance of “America the Beautiful” with Yolanda Adams.

Our Impact

95%

Of our students increased their arts skills and peer relationships

95%

Of our students feel heard when they express their ideas and concerns

100%

of our families would recommend our program

86%

of students grew in one or more social or emotional capacity

hours of instruction provided by each teaching artist per year

Increased

Cultural Awareness

Academic Performance

Creativity & Self-expression

Empathy & Peer Relationships

Our Values

Community

“Vocal Youth is more than just an activity, it’s a second family for my children and me.” - Trevori B., Parent

Self-Expression

“Through this organization, I found the potential my voice had.”- Anabella D., Student

Artistry

“I love the experience our girls receive. The opportunities for education, performances, and interactions with musicians are amazing and of high quality.”- Monica S., Parent

Connection

Many of my happiest memories are with my friends and directors at our rehearsals or concerts. I've met amazing mentors and developed meaningful friendships that I will never forget”- Chelsea F., Student

Courage

“Vocal Youth has made me less afraid of saying what’s on my mind and it has also made me feel more confident. ”- Maria H., Student

Who We Serve

Participants Ages 5-18

Elementary School

45%

Middle School

30%

High School

25%

Students with
documented disabilities

30%

African American

20%

Caucasian

11%

Multi-Racial

20%

Hispanic

44%

Indigenous

Where We Serve

Uniting young people in South Florida to foster connections and growth through vocal music

Meet our team

Meet our Board of Directors

Partner with us

Partner with Vocal Youth Miami to offer transformative vocal music programs in your school or organization.

Book us

Vocal Youth has extensive experience providing music for special events, including corporate functions, weddings, and memorial services.

Learn more

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With the support of the Miami Dade County, Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural, Affairs Council, the Miami Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. Vocal Youth Miami, formerly The Children’s Voice Chorus, is funded in part by the Lady Suzanna P. Tweed and Carlton Tweed Charitable Foundation. Support for Vocal Youth Miami was provided by a grant from the Coral Gables Community Foundation. This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida. Vocal Youth Miami is sponsored in part by the Paul and Beatriz Hicks Foundation. Vocal Youth Miami is funded for capacity building by The Children’s Trust. The Children’s Trust is a dedicated source of revenue established by voter referendum to improve the lives of children and families in Miami-Dade County.