Expressions youth choir seeking new voices

Expressions Community Youth Choir is made up of singers from all over Stanislaus County. Their touching performances and inspiring message have moved hundreds of audiences over the past 35 years.

Started in 1980 by Candy Chamberlain, a local music director and graduate of California State University, Stanislaus, Expressions came at a much-needed time: After Proposition 13 was passed, many schools were removing choir programs from their curriculum to save educational funds.

“As a public school music educator myself,” Chamberlain said, “I knew that by any means possible, children needed a place to sing. I loved gathering kids from all over the area and bringing them together to learn about the magic of making new friends from outside their schools and neighborhoods, and using choral music to inspire them toward a quest for personal excellence in a family atmosphere.”

Students involved in the choir – which is accepting new members for the spring semester – get to appreciate a variety of choral literature. Everything from classical Italian arias to pop hits or, as Chamberlain put it, “from Bach to Broadway” has become a part of the repertoire.

“Whether you’re 7 or 17 and you’re in Expressions, you’ll have an appreciation for all kinds of music,” said Elise Champeaux, 13.

Added Brynn Wallar, 7: “I love EYC because Ms. Ashleigh (Hiltabidel) teaches me how to sing well. I even got to learn a Christmas song in Spanish!”

While the choir performs primarily at Modesto Christian Reformed Church, it often has sung at other venues, including the Gallo Center for the Arts. Expressions frequently is invited to sing with other ensembles and soloists, including most recently the Modesto Symphony Orchestra Chorus in its annual pops concert and the David Benoit Trio in its “Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown.”

“I like Expressions because I learn about music and how to sing. I enjoy singing and improving every year,” said Kimmie Horne, 13. “One of my favorite things is being with my friends and making new friends. It’s also fun to sing with the MSO at the pops and candlelight concerts.”

Many students often participate in a two-week summer theater program. This year, summer program participants will perform Disney’s “Peter Pan.”

Not only is Expressions an opportunity to learn about music and performing in front of an audience, but for many children, the choir is akin to a second family. It’s a place where kids can be themselves.

“The majority of Expressions singers return to the choirs year after year, even while they grow up and their lives get busier and more expectations are required of them with school and extracurricular activities,” Chamberlain said. “The rehearsals are intense, and they are required to learn and memorize a lot of music each season. I expect a high level of professional behavior from every singer. That being said, these kids shriek with delight after a break in our schedule, as they are so excited to see each other and get back to work.”

Brielle Wallar, 13, echoed that sentiment: “EYC to me is a constant. Every Monday, I’m constantly learning and growing musically. Ms. Candy is teaching me and sharing her love of music. I’m surrounded by other young singers, and I have made many close friends. I look forward to every rehearsal.”

This story was originally published January 30, 2015 at 9:00 PM with the headline "Expressions youth choir seeking new voices."