RESONATE: RAISING VOICES OF HOPE
A Continuing Vision
When ACDA Eastern Region President Penelope Cruz and the 2022 Boston Conference Planning Committee introduced the theme RESONATE, they cast a compelling vision for the choral profession. They reminded us that we seek experiences that resonate emotionally, spiritually, intellectually, and musically, and that, as conductors and choral leaders, “it is our mission to create experiences that will RESONATE in numerous ways.” (ACDA Eastern Region 2022)
The 2026 ACDA Voices United Planning Committee is honored to build upon that foundation. Through RESONATE: Raising Voices of Hope, we carry this vision forward across Delaware, Maryland/DC, and Virginia.
While the 2022 conference invited us to reflect on the power of resonance, Voices United 2026 invites us to consider what that resonance makes possible. Our aspiration is not simply to create moments that resonate, but to cultivate lives that resonate—with one another, with our communities, and with the enduring mission of the choral art.
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, conductors, and communities.
Resonates with excellence — advancing artistry, pedagogy, and innovation in the choral art.
Resonates with courage — addressing the realities of our time with integrity, curiosity, and compassion.
Resonates with unity — strengthening collaboration among Delaware, Maryland/DC, and Virginia.
Resonates with every voice — celebrating singers, educators, church musicians, composers, students, and arts leaders across every setting.
Resonates with hope — equipping participants to return home inspired, empowered, and ready to make a lasting difference.
Because the true measure of resonance is not what happens during a conference. It is found in the echoes that continue long after the final cadence. Every rehearsal, every classroom, every worship service, every concert, and every community becomes an opportunity to remind someone that their voice matters.
May the resonance we create together echo far beyond this conference.
We honor a vision.
We embrace a calling.
We choose to RESONATE.
Together, we lift every voice.
Together, we raise voices of hope.
Respectfully submitted by:
Ocie S. Banks, Maryland/DC President
Benjamin Bergey, Virginia President
Melanie Mijares, Delaware President
Frank Van Atta, Conference Chair & Maryland/DC President-Elect