RESONATE: RAISING VOICES OF HOPE

Conference Guiding Principles

We all seek experiences that RESONATE with us—emotionally, spiritually, intellectually, and musically. In choral music, we also seek the resonance of the voice: vibrations felt within our bodies, shared among singers, and carried into performance spaces. As conductors, educators, and leaders, our mission is to create experiences that resonate deeply and meaningfully.

Music resonates most powerfully when it vibrates sympathetically with the lived experiences of those who encounter it. The impact of such experiences cannot be underestimated. Yet, not all voices have always been equally represented in our choral spaces. When representation is limited, resonance is limited.

The 2026 ACDA Voices United Conference Committee seeks to expand that resonance.

We aim to create sound waves that travel further and in new directions—fostering diversity, equity, access, and belonging in ways that resonate with more people. Through concerts, interest sessions, reading sessions, and collaborative dialogue, we will reflect the many lived realities of our members and the communities we serve—and of those we hope will become part of our shared resonance.

Raising Voices of Hope

In a time when life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness feel uncertain for many…
In a time when the voices of marginalized communities are challenged or silenced…
In a time when progress toward diversity, access, equity, and inclusion faces resistance…

We choose to RESONATE.

We choose to RAISE VOICES OF HOPE.

Hope is not passive. Hope is active.
Hope is voiced.
Hope is sung.

Through the power of choral music, we lift voices in unity and diversity. We create spaces where singers of all ages are empowered not only to perform, but to belong. As conductors, our calling extends beyond musical excellence — we are cultivators of empathy, builders of community, and stewards of human connection.

Our goal is to create a conference that:

• Resonates with authenticity — honoring the stories, cultures, and identities of our singers and conductors.

• Resonates with excellence — advancing artistry, pedagogy, and innovation in the choral art.

• Resonates with courage — addressing the realities of our time with integrity and compassion.

• Resonates with unity — strengthening collaboration among Maryland/DC, Virginia, and Delaware.

• Resonates with YOU — reflecting and embracing the diversity of all who sing, lead, and support choral music across all settings and communities.

• Resonates with hope — equipping directors to return to their communities inspired and empowered.

Together, our voices are stronger.
Together, our resonance travels farther.
Together, we raise voices of hope.

Respectfully submitted by:

• Frank Van Atta, Conference Coordinator & Maryland/DC President-Elect

• Ocie S. Banks, Maryland/DC President

• Benjamin Bergey, Virginia President

• Melanie Mijares, Delaware President