One World, Many Voices
FEBRUARY 22, 2025
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF PENSACOLA
MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Welcome to ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES, a celebration of song that honors the majesty and wonder of the world around us. This concert gives voice to peoples and cultures from across the globe, calling each of us to look beyond our own neighborhood and seek common ground with those whom we perceive are different. This afternoon’s performance will also amplify important messages that children and adults ought to hear—ones of empowerment, self-esteem, and community. The 267 members of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus have been working hard for 6 (!!) weeks to put this together (no thanks to Snowmageddon). We are excited to see you here as we collectively celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus.
Of course, if you’ve been around PCC a few times, you probably know that what you are about to witness is much more than music. This concert is but a moment in time, a culminating event after a rigorous rehearsal process. Our performance is not something we can pull fully formed out of a hat. No, the magic is in the routine and the resolve that a child demonstrates week after week. Each of these 9 choirs form unique communities where a singer can deepen friendships and learn critical life skills that are (arguably) more valuable than identifying a quarter note. This is the magic of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus—a time-tested, data-driven recipe of success where children not only learn to love music and performance, but also learn to harness the power and potential of the arts to become better, selfassured individuals.
It’s this mission—to foster the personal growth of our singers—that makes PCC so valuable to me. But of course, value is in the eyes of the beholder, and perhaps PCC means something different to you and your family (which is great!). I’d like to be able to celebrate that with you as well; so please, drop me a note or speak with one of our friendly board or staff members. We love hearing from our community on why PCC holds meaning and value.
One thing, I suspect, is true of nearly everyone in this room today—you care about the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. Whether it’s because your own child is a member, or you’ve had children enrolled in the past, or perhaps you enjoy supporting our community’s youth in a variety of spaces. But for whatever reason, you showed up here today. Your patronage and support mean the world to us. Thank you.
These children are the future leaders of our society. As you listen to their songs and reflect on their messages, I invite you to join me in imagining just how beautiful our future will be with these leaders at the helm.
Enjoy the show!
Artistic & Executive Director
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS & SPONSORS
Performing
Composing
Melodic
Harmonic
Jennifer Hoekstra & Srivasta Gupta
Spencer Family Foundation
Special Thanks
First Baptist Church of Pensacola
* We sincerely apologize for any omissions due to printing deadlines.
Lyrical
MEET THE PENSACOLA CHILDREN’S CHORUS
1990
Susan and Allen Pote establish the Pensacola Symphony Children’s Chorus.
1992 The first Showtime performance was held at First Presbyterian Church.
1993 Choirs were restructured to form Festival (grades 4–5), Concert (6–8), and Ensemble, a select group formed from the ranks of Concert.
1994 1995 The Pensacola Children’s Chorus was officially established as an independent, not-for-profit organization.
The first Christmas on the Coast was held at the Saenger. Young Singers was established for high school-aged singers.
1997 PCC moved into its present home in the Margaret Moore Nickelsen Center on the campus of First Presbyterian Church in downtown Pensacola.
1998 PCC appeared on a national telecast of the Hour of Power at the Crystal Cathedral in California.
2000 Singers embarked on their first international tour to Europe. Choristers (grade 3) and Echo (grades 9–12) were added to PCC’s roster.
2001 The first concert that has been known as The Angels Sing, In Sacred Song, and One World, Many Voices were held.
2002 PCC performed in the East Room of the White House.
2004 Hurricane Ivan decimated Pensacola. PCC responded to the crisis with a performance of We Will Be a Shelter for Each Other, written by Allen Pote.
2005 Regular summer programs began.
2010 PCC celebrated its 20th Anniversary and welcomed many notable alumni, including Ashley Brown, Will Hedgecock, Katy Mixon, Brandi Russell, Abigail Spencer, and Hanan Tarabay.
2015 Susan and Allen Pote announced their retirement at the end of the 2015–2016 season, completing a tenure of 26 years.
2016 Alex Gartner, a native of Cincinnati, OH, was selected as the next Artistic Director after a national search. Susan and Allen Pote were honored by the establishment of an endowment fund in their name.
2017 The Ambassador Choir was established to meet the growing demand for PCC’s participation in community events.
2019 Preparatory (grades 1–2) was added to the PCC roster. High school choirs were reorganized to include Choraliers (treble voices) and Chorale (changed voices).
2022 PCC made its debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
2023 A nearly $500K investment was secured from the Escambia Children’s Trust to provide tuition-free membership to at-risk youth in Escambia County. Hauntcert debuts at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre.
2024 PCC presented a standalone concert for the American Choral Directors Association in Louisville.
OUR STORY
Since its formal beginnings in 1990, the Pensacola Children’s Chorus has sought to inspire and transform the lives of young people through music and the performing arts. Under the leadership of founding artistic directors, Susan and Allen Pote, PCC was originally formed under the auspices of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra and was called the Pensacola Symphony Children’s Chorus. With growing interest, PCC formally separated from the Symphony in 1994 and incorporated as an independent 501(c)3. Over time, PCC has grown to amass 9 resident ensembles, 3 neighborhood programs, 2 regional choirs, and a regular schedule of summer programming. Mounting over 40 performances each season, PCC reaches an annual audience of nearly 25,000 individuals.
PCC’s performance résumé is vast. A nascent concert similar to the Broadway-style musical revues mounted today began in early 1990s with the first Showtime . Held in the parish hall of First Presbyterian Church to a large crowd, it was clear that a move to a bigger venue was in order, and thus performances at PCC’s Saenger Theatre became a staple of the regular concert calendar. Soon after, the first Christmas on the Coast came to life in 1995 and has since been a beloved holiday tradition in Pensacola.
In 1997, operations moved into a permanent facility on the campus of First Presbyterian Church, a place it still calls home today.
In 2015, Susan and Allen Pote announced their plans to retire at the conclusion at of the 2015–2016 season after 26 years of leadership. The Board of Directors launched a national search and identified Alex Gartner, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, to serve as the new Artistic Director.
Under Gartner’s leadership since 2016, PCC has evolved into a multi-program organization. The Resident Choir Program remains the flagship with 6 core ensembles and 3 elective ensembles reaching
singers in Grades 1–12. These groups combine for the Mainstage Performance Series which includes Hauntcert, Christmas on the Coast, One World, Many Voices , and Showtime . These initiatives are flanked by the Neighborhood Choir Program, a network of ensembles rooted in communites who have historically lacked access to the arts; and Regional Initiatives, which include the Tri-City Children’s Choir (serving northern Escambia County) and the Atmore Area Youth Choir located across the state line in Alabama. Summer months are filled with Sing in the Summer , a multiweek series of camps rooted in foundational music and movement education.
Halfway to 40, PCC’s years of accomplishments and milestones are vast, yet none compare with the greatest of all: the thousands of young lives that have been radically transformed through music. At PCC, music is not simply a means of entertainment, it is a tool that is used to build critical skills that enable a child to be successful throughout their lives. Responsibility, teamwork, accountability, confidence, and empathy— these are the values which are embedded in every facet of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. Together, they create a safe, inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH INFORMATION
Photography & Videography
The use of video cameras, cell phone cameras, or recording equipment of any kind is strictly prohibited during performances. Unauthorized recordings are in breach of federal copyright law. You are welcome to take photos with your favorite performers before or after the performances. If you post to social media, be sure to use the hashtags #PCCSings or #OneWorldManyVoices and tag @PensacolaChildrensChorus
Public Health & Safety
To ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all performers, production staff, and audience members, it is strongly suggested that patrons exercise sound judgment with regard to their personal health and the health of others. If you have a fever of 100.4˚F or higher, or if you are experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms, please return home. Hand sanitizing stations have been placed throughout the facility for your convenience. If you need to cough or sneeze, please do so into a handkerchief, tissue, or your elbow out of courtesy to fellow audience members.
Handicap Accessibility
Handicap accessible seating is located in the middle of the sanctuary. Due to limited space, parties may need to be separated to accommodate all patrons. Balcony seating is not handicap accessible. Accessible restrooms are located in the front and rear of the sanctuary. An elevator to reach other levels of the facility is located outside the doors near the piano.
Food & Beverage
Food and beverage, with the exception of bottled water, is not allowed in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church. Please be respectful of this borrowed space.
Restrooms
Restrooms are available throughout the facility. Please refer to posted signage for more information. Limited capacity restrooms can be found in both the sanctuary and balcony lobbies. Larger facilities near the front of the Sanctuary through the doors on the right hand/organ side. Please look for blue signage.
Singer Pickup
Only performers, staff, and scheduled volunteers are permitted in the backstage areas. Patrons, unscheduled volunteers, parents, and alumni are not allowed in singer holding areas at any time before, during, or after the performance. You are welcome to greet the performers in the main courtyard along E. Jackson St. at the conclusion of the performance.
Backstage Access
Only performers, staff, and scheduled volunteers are permitted in the backstage areas. Patrons, unscheduled volunteers, parents, and alumni are not allowed backstage at any time before, during, or after the performance. You are welcome to greet the performers on Intendencia Street at the conclusion of the concert.
Seating Policy
Doors will open 60-75 minutes prior to the performance. Patrons who arrive early may queue in front of the Sanctuary doors on Palafox Street. Please be mindful of parking and weather as you make your way to the venue. There are no assigned seats for this performance, with the exception of a reserved VIP section. To comfortably accommodate as many patrons as possible, you may be asked to shift your location in your self-selected row by a PCC staff member or usher. We thank you in advance for your flexibility and compliance. Latecomers will be seated at appropriate intervals.
MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus, I am honored to extend a warm welcome to you as you join us for our midseason concert—One World, Many Voices. This uplifting event highlights choral singing, the artistic heart of PCC. Enjoy the beauty and excitement that is created as our young singers unite their voices together in a traditional choral setting.
Under the leadership of our Artistic and Executive Director, Alex Gartner, our resident choir program has expanded to 267 participants, with 16% supported by the Escambia Children’s Trust and 44% receiving financial assistance through our Triple-A Commitment, which provides Affordable and Accessible Arts to every child.
Our 35th anniversary performance of Christmas on the Coast at the Saenger Theatre was a jolly success, with over 3,700 attendees, including online viewers. We reveled in the holiday spirit as we enjoyed having our alumni return to the Saenger stage to perform alongside our current members in this treasured holiday tradition. For the first time, PCC singers participated in the Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade, allowing us to connect with the community as never before. Additionally, our choirs participated in nearly 20 community performances during November and December.
As we prepare for Showtime, our annual toe-tapping Broadway revue, we reflect on the life-changing opportunities PCC provides to the youth in our area who join us from 60+ represented schools. The Children’s Chorus will always be known for the quality of our musical productions, but our true legacy is realized through cultivating confident community members through a broad variety of engaging opportunities at PCC.
Thank you to everyone who participated in making our inaugural gala fundraiser OVATION a success! I would like to express my deep gratitude to everyone who served on the event planning committee for making this event one of the highest-grossing fundraiser in the history of PCC. Without the support and generosity of our board, sponsors, and donors, it would not be possible to embark on core initiatives that align with our mission. We are grateful for the donated time and effort of parents, relatives, and friends as well as your support and patronage as an audience member. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Sheila Dunn, DM
President, Board of Directors, Pensacola Children’s Chorus Professor of Voice, Dr. Grier Williams School of Music, University of West Florida
FRIENDS OF NOTE
Dazzling Stars
($10,000+)
Art, Culture, and Entertainment, Inc. (ACE)
Cat Country / ADX Communications
City of Pensacola Department of Parks & Recreation
Escambia Children’s Trust
Escambia County Public Schools
First Presbyterian Church
Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area
Val & Ray Russenberger *
Saenger Theatre
Truist Charitable Fund *
United Way of West Florida *
WEAR Channel 3
Brilliant Stars
($5,000–$9,999)
Appleyard Family Foundation *
Aylstock Witkin Kreis & Overholtz
Ballinger Publishing
Bands on the Bayou / East Hill Neighborhood Association
Karla & Ted Ent *
Mary & TJ Henriques *
Jennifer Hoekstra & Srivasta Gupta
Innisfree Hotels *
Johnson Supply Company
Julian & Kim MacQueen *
D.W. McMillan Trust
Noelle & Josh Poole *
Shooting Stars
($2,500–$4,999)
Advanced Dental Concepts
Alpha-Lit Pensacola
The Bear Family Foundation
Beggs & Lane, RLLP
Caldwell Associates
Architects
Robin & John Carr
Center for Clergy Care & Education
Davis Animal Hospital
Sheila & Bobby Dunn *
Brian & Christy Foreman *
GrayRobinson
Guardian Pharmacy
Joe & Bev Kinego *
Novus Anesthesia Partners
Pure Pilates *
Regions Private Wealth
Dr. Michael Riesberg, MD *
Sandy Sansing & Family *
Site & Utility, LLC
Patricia Spencer
Shining Stars
($1,000–$2,499)
ACTS Retirement Communities
Daniel & Susan Agnew *
Allan Bell *
Holly Benson
Michael & Lindsay Blanton *
The Burch Family Trust
Town of Century +
Brandon & Elisha Cherry *
Anna M. Child
David & Cynthia Clark *
Anne Daniel
Mason Enright *
Erin Finley *
Jeffery Fulton * °
Alex & Kirstin Gartner *
Matt & Donna Harwell *
Anna & Michael Higgins *
Jessica & Chris Hyche *
Jeffrey & Catherine Hyde
Normidaris & Lincoln Jiménez *
James & Norma Johnson
Cynthia Kohler *
Donald & Linda Lindsey
Logo Motion Marketing
Bill Manning Real Estate
Rita Miller *
Navy Federal Credit Union
NewLIFE Fertility, Dr. Lori and Dr. Barry Ripps
Paypal Giving Fund
Bob & Donna Peoples *
Susan & Allen Pote
Thomas & Heather Pulling *
Gary & Renee Rivord *
Andrea & Todd Rosenbaum *
Rotary Club of Pensacola Foundation
John & Mary Slocum *
Sunday’s Child
United Bank Foundation
Vaughn Brinkley Wealth Strategies Group
James E. Waddle, Jr.
Lusharon Wiley *
Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics
Twinkling Stars
($500–$999)
Atmore Community Foundation/Foundation of South Alabama *+
Lisa Bosarge *
Patrick & Shannon Coleman *
Order of DaedaliansShangri-La Flight
Michael Denkler *
William & Elizabeth Dundey *
Dave & Mary Hoxeng *
Teresa Levin *
Jennifer Lewis *
Merck Company Foundation *
Katie & Mike Miller *
Janice Miller *
Jamilyn Newton *
PCC Student Activity Squad *
Kricket & Rodney Rich *
Brad & Paige Rowe *
Patti Scannell *
Sun Farm Energy
Denise & Niranjan Suri *
Petrea & Joe Tomko *
Jerry Unruh, VADM, USN (Ret.) & Mrs. Dee Unruh *
William Vaughan
Ellen W. Vinson
Robin Zimmern & Mike Spencer *
Bright Stars ($250–$499)
Courtney & Will Campbell *
Alita Fisher *
James & Jessica Hampton *
Anna & Geoffrey Hancy *
Kyle & Grace Harvey *
Jamie Hayes *
Taska & Kevin King *
Bruce & Allison Patton
Mary Ann Penning
Charlie & Karen Robinson *
David Sampson *
Richard & Susan Waters *
Amy & Kyle Watson *
Jack & Amy Zoesch
All or portion of gift designated toward:
* Designated toward Tuition Assistance and Scholarships
° Designated toward Susan & Allen Pote
Pensacola Children’s Chorus Endowment Fund
+ Designated toward Tri-City or Atmore Regional Choirs
This list represents donations current as of February 17, 2025. We sincerely apologize for any omissions.
FRIENDS OF NOTE
Wishing Stars (up to $249)
Fourd & Erin Attaway *
Lee Bailey & Sarah Mills-Bailey
Sara Bandurian
Barb Barrow *
William & Karen Barth
Linda & Bob Bloom °
Kolleen Chesley *
Alex & Cozy Coleman *
Debbie Cross *
Joyce & Victor Demarest *
Doralyn DeMauro *
Captain Bill & Pat Dickson
Judith Dulabhan
Amy Duncan *
Joseph & Susan Endry
Jason & Mary English *
Claire Escobedo *
Shannon Fell
Nancy Fetterman *
Ashley W. Fish, DDS *
R.C. & Linda Floyd +
Dean Fournier
Jill Gartner
Rachel Johnson Geisler
Nicholas & Mary Granger *
Savannah & Sean Green *
Michael Hartsfield
Barb Henriques *
Barb & Bruce Hoekstra *
Caroline Huff *
Evelyn Huffmaster *
Raechel Hutton *
Cheryl Jackson *
Shirley Johnson
Elizabeth Jones *
Jon & Karen Kellams *
Heather Landry
Zachary Lane *
LTCOL. W.R. Limbach USMC RET & Joan Engel *
Jerilyn MacBeth *
Lexi & Brandon Mayo *
Daniel McCort
Corey & Chandra McKern *
John & Barbara McLaughlin *
Lauren McMurray
Robert & Suzanne Mize
Ashley Nelson *
Brittany & Jordan Pabalan
Dr. Maureen & Ross Padden *
Tiffany Peterson *
Cheryl Quade
Thomas Roberts *
Joseph & Lorelie Sabata *
Harriett Sauls
Matthew & Rebecca Scholl *
Rebecca Shands *
Cari Shaw *
Ed Siegel *
Ricardo & Billy Silva
HONORARIUMS & MEMORIALS
Honorariums
In honor of Charlotte Aukamp
Gary & Renee Rivord
In honor of Vera Kate Bell
The Burch Family Trust
In honor of Riley Crites
Anne Daniel
In honor of Claire & Sarah Escobedo
Andrea & Todd Rosenbaum
In honor of Magnolia Huffmaster & Adeline Gill
Evelyn Huffmaster
In honor of The McCort Family
Daniel McCort
Allison Smith *
Mike & Cynthia Smith
Jason & Samantha Smyth-Chandler *
Kayla-Lee & Anthony Stalcup *
Peter Steenblick *
Jeff & Ginger Tharp *
Anthony & Kerri Thrush *
Tony Trinks
Thomas & Anna Wagner
Robert Waters
Joe & Karen Webb
Helen Weis
Kristin Wilson
Dr. Robert Wilson & Charlie Wilson *
Katie Fout & Troy Wiltshire *
Clara S. Wimberly *
Walter & Joan Wojciehowski
Bill & Beverly Zimmern
In honor of Deborah Moss
Erin Finley
In honor of John Robert Purcell
Susan & Allen Pote
In honor of Avica Spencer
Heather Landry
In honor of Gabriella Webb
Linda & Bob Bloom
In honor of Emma & Charlotte Zimmern
Patricia Spencer
Bill & Beverly Zimmern
In honor of Emilie Zoesch
Joyce & Victor Demarest
Memorials
In memory of Lewis Bear, Jr.
Susan & Allen Pote
Ellen W. Vinson
In memory of Roy Bracken
Susan & Allen Pote
In memory of Kenneth Dulabhan
Judith Dulabhan
In memory of Linda Harageones
Susan & Allen Pote
In memory of Esther Pote Stump
Amy & Kyle Watson
In memory of Martha Taylor
Susan & Allen Pote
In memory of Larry Ward
Ashley W. Fish, DDS
In memory of Ellen Jane Watson
Ellen W. Vinson
MERIT AWARD & SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Abigail Coleman Donald Lindsey Service Award
Bridget Holston Esther Pote Stump Award
Michaela Bermudez Betty Berling Award
Jackson Rodriguez Sandy Sansing Leadership Award
Shaelyn Wilkerson Grier Williams Spirit Award
Emmy Oaks Kendra Wilkerson Fendt Memorial Award
Bruno Da Silva Spirit of Pensacola Collegiate Scholarship
Ainsley Cramblet Barbara Adriance Award
Anna Stersic Spirit of Pensacola Collegiate Scholarship
MISSION IN MOTION
Our impact extends far beyond any concert stage.
While the mission of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus is musical in nature, our impact is more than just notes on a page or a moment in the spotlight. At PCC, music is used to transform the lives of our singers, enrich our community, and build a prosperous future.
Music builds character
When a child dedicates themselves to growing their musical and performance abilities, they learn valuable lessons along the way. At PCC, these include responsibility, teamwork, accountability, empathy, and confidence. Our programs inspire personal growth and social development which equip our singers with the agency to build their self-esteem, develop meaningful relationships, and act as positive contributors to our world.
Music creates connection
The best song is one that is shared with others. That’s why PCC offers 40+ performances each year, reaching an annual audience of over 25,000.
Music strengthens community
As a not-for-profit organization, PCC recognizes the importance of using music to support the Northwest Florida community. Much of this work is carried out by members of the Ambassador Choir, a group that is solely dedicated to partnering with local nonprofits and using music to highlight social issues.
Music invites gratitude
One of PCC’s most cherished traditions is celebrating the elders of our community, as well as honoring the sacrifices made by members of the United States Armed Forces. These intergenerational experiences create spaces where young and old co-exist
Public, private, and homeschool cohorts represented by current PCC singers
101
3,433
19,231
through a bond where music, service, and sacrifice hold common ground.
Music cultivates leadership
Children unlock their potential for leadership when they strive for excellence, refine their skills, and mature as individuals. The training they receive at PCC extends into other facets of their lives, including school. With nearly 80 public and private schools represented by our members, PCC’s influence on the arts ecosystem of Northwest Florida is amplified through our nearly 300 participants each year.
Performances and educational events last year
54 $83k
Dollars spent to ensure children with financial need found a home at PCC K-12 students who experienced a PCC performance or educational program
Audience members who experienced a PCC mainstage or community performance
CHOIR ROSTERS
Preparatory Grades 1–2
Navi Alderman
Lily Anderson
Evy Andzulis
Alex Berry
Elaura Blackburn
Blaire Brosnaham
Ani Cheatham
Sydney Cobb
Qora Echevarria
Sloane Ekers
Lici Ellis
Cinco Ellis
Harper Ford
Sophie Mei Hancy
Oaklyn Howell
Tabby Johnson
Choristers Grade 3
Emmie Adams
Lucas Bishop
Allie Boven
Annabelle Brewer
Osho Campbell
Zoe Cheatham
Molly Crawford
Emmy Cummings
Kylie Davis
Daylen Davis
Lily Denne
Marin Dudney
Daniella DuMond
Robert Dunn
Leo Ferrell
Emily Frenkel
Nevaeh Funnell
Cecelia Garic
Festival & Lyric Grades 4–5
Ethan Andzulis
Catie Bannon
Liv Barrow
Alexis Bernhardt
Weston Berry
Jairus Buensuceso
Jai’Don Carter
Ava Chambers
Tory Cipriano
Layton Corley
Lillian Crisher
Jayden CruzOrengo
Catherine Dunn
Emily Ellwood
Ella Pearl Eve
Alecia Fawcett
Meredith Fendt
Mary Clark Forshee
Maren Fox
Emma Gibbs
Xander Ginnetti
KJ Gupta
Robbie Gupta
Lydia Hancy
Lillie Hermann
Patrick Higgins
Holly Jackson
Willow Kudlacz
Noah Locke
Mariah Locke
Jake McWilliams
Lowell Murrell
Victoria Nelson
Aspen Nunnari
Sophia Palermo
Lulana Powell
Ali Purdy
Emma Quiring
Ezra Resonno
Eli Scholl
Adalyn Self
Koral Smith
Gabby Smith
Bree Stead
Mateo Toliver
Blaze Turner
Seth-Nolan Woodard
Shelby Givens
Mim Hill
Magnolia Huffmaster
Declan Huffmaster
Lucas Jarrell
Kinsley LangleyBuchanan
Dahlia Noell
Harper Pabalan
Libby Poole
Stormie Riley
Cameron Schroth
Makenna Sherwin
Gwendolynn
Smyth-Chandler
Aiden Taylor
Lucy Timmons
Genesis Ulate
Kate Vidal
Alia Wells
Jordan Williams
Hensley Zielinski
Ryleigh Jackson
Ty Johnson
Taylor Johnson
Liam Johnson
Charley Kain
Robin Klingmann
Karoline Kurek
Eve Lambeth
Brooklyn Larson
James Latham
Grace Laughlin
Lexi Martin
Brenda McLin
Louella Mead
AJ Miller
Daisy Mohlmann
Abby Moss-Livous
Isabella Neeley
Amelia Newman
Cora Payne
Lily Pollard
Arhaam Raheem
Dayla Redding
Wyatt Remington
Jackson Rodriguez
Amelia Smith
Owen Smith
Darby Smith
Wyatt Snyder
Adelyn Solis
Khloe Sowers
Axl Turner
Esther Ulate
Emily Viquelia
Blake West
Zoey Westberry
Lucy Wiltshire
Thea Woodruff
Emilia Zieman
Charlotte Zimmern
Concert Grades 6–8
Jose Alfaro
Grace Angell
Brandon Austin +
Marilyn Ball
Carter Bowman + Hudson Brown +
Ava Christensen + Grace Cipriano
Abigail Coleman + Charlette Coleman
Emelyn Crosby
Ivey Coral Datu
JeBran Davis
Ella Dixon + Avery Ellwood
Lana Fernandez +
Roey Foreman
Chloe Givens +
Annabelle Glasgow
Hazel Glover
Penelope Granger
Keira Griffith
Molly Hartsfield +
Kai Hill +
Hadlee Hitchcock +
Emery Hoffman
Chorale & Choraliers Grades 9–12
Gabe Bailey *
Vera Kate Bell *
Michaela Bermúdez *
Zoey Brown
Beatrice Bunnell *
Lily Campbell *
Riley Chism *
Ainsley Cramblet *
Alyssa Creel
Amelia Cruit *
Amethyst Davis *
Kayla Davis
Mac Daza
Addison Denson *
Cai Durbin
Peyton Dykes *
Grace English
Vivi Fernandez *
Gabriel Flores *
Blakely Flores *
Obie Gammon *
Marz Green
Jay Griggs *
Lilly Haims *
Ambassadors Grades 7–12
Abigail Coleman
Charlette Coleman
Mac Daza
Gabriel Flores
Bridget Holston +
Jeweliana Jackson
Mia Jimenez +
Lissy Johnson
Roan Johnson
Sierra Kaldahl
Ashirah Kilmer +
Reagan Kozminsky +
Elizabeth Krantz
Khali Liddell
Keala Liddell
Becca Lorge
Harper Mahaney
CHOIR ROSTERS
Erin Martin
Josh Matthews
Hollyn Myers
Emmy Oaks +
Christiana Pert
Arden Poole +
Abby Pulling +
Sophie Rowell
Sophia Sabata
Ava Shead +
Averie Smith +
Cora Smith + Ari Smith
Henley Hancy *
Sydnie Hedtke *
Aleks Henderson
Hayleigh Hill *
Zoey Jefferson *
Melody Jones *
Grace Kellams *
Jazz Khadaran
Rinah Kilmer *
Ava Lane *
Delaney Lauzon
Jaden Machesky *
Hannah Martinez
Jocelyn Mayeux *
Amelia Mesa *
Elanna MilhouseSmith *
Noah Mitts
Kai Munoz-Saulnier
Dani Newman *
Chloe Odom *
Miley Owens *
Holden Raley *
Lilly Remington *
Layke Richmond *
Avica Spencer +
Aryn Stinnett
Gigi Thrush +
Aubrey Vick
Tessa Wells
Kayleigh Wheeler
Aaliyah Williams
Evie Woodruff
Isabella Zimmerman
Emma Zimmern +
Emilie Zoesch +
Obie Gammon
Annabelle Glasgow
Gigi Thrush + Ensemble * Young Singers
Rylee Rogers *
Abigail Seaman
Gracie Slocum *
Mia Slocum *
McKenzie Taylor *
Nevaeh Terry *
Elise Welch
Finley West *
Shaelyn Wilkerson *
One World, Many Voices
FEBRUARY 22, 2025
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF PENSACOLA
A colorful selection of choral music that celebrates the beauty and complexity of the human spirit.
One act with no intermission (approx. 100 mins)
This performance will be live-streamed. Please silence your cell phones.
Alex Gartner
Artistic Director
Miguel Aldahondo Director of Community Programs
Evelyn Aguirre Assistant Director
Brooke Dykes Production Coordinator
Juliana Child Asst. Artistic Director
Stephany Heath Associate Director
Katie Olson Assistant Director
Heidi Siren Costume Designer
ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES
CONCERT
Juliana Child, conductor
Wau Bulan
TradiTional Malaysian/arr. Tracy Wong
According to the arranger, this Malaysian piece is “performed in the Dikir Barat style whereby performers sit in rows on the floor/stage to sing and do choreographed hand and body movements. Dikir Barat is usually performed by Malaysians as a way of preserving and cultivating the Malay community culture of song and dance. ‘Wau Bulan’ describes the beauty of the Malaysian traditional kite (wau) with a rounded bottom shaped like a half moon (bulan) as it flies up high in the sky.”
Lindsay Riddle, choreography
All Things Bright and Beautiful by Philip Silvey
This jubilant celebration of all created things is a widely popular selection for treble choirs because of its lively vocal lines and exciting piano accompaniment, which mirror the vibrancy and vitality of the natural world.
Who I Want to Be
by Coty Raven Morris/arr. Saleel Menon
At the heart of this piece lies a collection of affirmations that are sung in sequence and repeated many times, creating a soothing, almost hypnotic effect. The sung affirmations include self-assuring and empowering phrases such as, I take care of the vessel I’m in, and I love the me that’s under this skin. In performing this piece, each singer must internalize these words and repeat them until they become true. In learning this piece, our middle school singers learned the importance of positive self-talk. These young people displayed exceptional courage in their willingness to be vulnerable and honest with each other throughout the rehearsal process. In the middle section of the piece, you will hear members of the choir sharing their own original words of affirmation, which the group collectively chose as the words that best represent their current state of mind.
Grace Angell, Elizabeth Krantz, Becca Lorge, Chloe Givens, Aryn Stinnett, Cora Smith, Ashirah Kilmer, Emmy Oaks, Jose Alfaro & Avica Spencer, speakers
ENSEMBLE
Evelyn Aguirre & Juliana Child, conductors
How Can I Keep from Singing? arr. Stephen Rew
No storm can shake my inmost calm while to that rock I’m clinging. Since love is Lord of heaven and earth, how can I keep from singing? The words of this traditional hymn never fail to inspire hope and resilience in times of trial. We hope that this lovely and expressive arrangement sounds an echo in your soul, that you may always turn to music for strength.
Rattlesnake Skipping Song by
Derek Holman
This lively, rhythmic song gives very sensible advice to anyone who happens to catch a rattlesnake. The lighthearted humor of the text, written by Canadian poet and children’s author, Dennis Lee, is reflected in the piece’s unusual melody and syncopated piano accompaniment.
Seoithín Seó
TradiTional irish/arr. Rosaleen Molloy
This arrangement contains two different versions of the traditional Irish song Seothín Seó: one is a fast, rhythmical version which captures the pulsating, vibrant rhythmic energy of Irish dance music; the other is a slow rendition in the form of a beautiful maternal lullaby. Most of the text is comprised of vocable or nonsense sounds present in many Irish lullabies or dandling songs (a type folksong sung to babies as they are held). The words, ’S tú mo leanbh mean, “You are my child.”
Abigail Coleman, soloist
ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES
AMBASSADORS
Miguel Aldahondo, conductor
O Rushing Wind by Mark
Patterson
Full of optimism and reflection, this flowing piece encourages us to pursue our dreams with courage, while gently reminding us to hold on to the essence of what we call home. The wind and the sea serve as symbols of the inner voice that will always “bring us safely home again.”
If I Knew You by
Cynthia Gray
Based on a poem by late-19th-century American writer, Nixon Waterman, this song reflects on the idea that if we look beyond our pre-conceived notions that divide us, we might realize just how similar we truly are. It speaks to the transformative power of empathy and understanding.
Famba Naye TradiTional ZiMbabwean/arr. Victor C. Johnson
Translation: Walk with us, O Lord; We are grateful; You are full of love.
This arrangement of the popular Zimbabwean folk song is full of life and gratitude. The rhythmic instrumentation makes for an exciting piece that invites both performers and listeners to join in the celebratory spirit.
PREPARATORY & CHORISTERS
Juliana Child & Katie Olson, conductors
Dance of the Willow by Victoria Ebel-Sabo
In this piece, the lilting vocal melody and buoyant piano accompaniment imaginatively capture the freedom and graceful movement of a willow swaying in the breeze. Inspired by a fond, vivid memory from her childhood, composer and lyricist Victoria Ebel-Sabo recounts that she happily danced along with a large weeping willow that grew in the backyard of her family’s home.
Éiníní
Translation: Little birdies sleep; sleep beside the fence over there.
TradiTional Gaelic/arr. Cyndee Giebler
Éiníní is a simple but haunting Gaelic lullaby. While only one verse is included in this arrangement, subsequent omitted verses call upon different types of birds, such as a blackbird, raven, crow, robin, and skylark, to go to sleep.
Hozhonji Song (Song of the Earth)
Translation: All is beautiful, all is beautiful indeed.
TradiTional navajo/arr. Lee Kesselman
The Navajo people declare all earthly things perfect as first made. This song is a blessing of the created world. The words are traditional Navajo, and the music has been adapted to make it accessible for young voices.
Bhombela
TradiTional Zulu/ed. Melissa Keylock
Translation: Chimney smoke of the train! What is mother doing? She is waking the children.
This piece, hailing from South Africa, is a song about a mother and her children riding on a train. In its original cultural context, this song would typically accompany a children’s stick-passing game. As they prepared for their performance, Prep and Choristers played their own version of the game, using cups instead of sticks!
Zoe Cheatham, Marin Dudney, Daniella DuMond & Jordan Williams, rhythm leaders
ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES
FESTIVAL
Juliana Child, conductor
Duérmete, niño TradiTional Mexican/arr. Victor C. Johnson
Translation: At the gate of Heaven, they sell shoes for little angels who walk barefoot. Sleep now, little one. Originally from Mexico, this gentle lullaby is now sung all over the world.
Grow, Little Tree by Andrea Ramsey
A simple text meets a simple melody, yet the word “song” does not adequately describe the beautiful intimacy and childlike innocence of this piece. Its heartfelt message about growing up with the help of role models and friends is accompanied by a sparse, earthy piano accompaniment, which imbues the words with the tender nostalgia that comes with nurturing a young person to become their truest self.
Ethan Andzulis, Olivia Barrow, Meredith Fendt, Patrick Higgins, Wyatt Remington & Wyatt Snyder, small group
A Song of Nonsense by Mark Patterson
This piece is a musical setting of four different limericks written by Edward Lear, a 19th-century English artist, poet, and musician. We hope that the silliness of this piece brings a smile and a chuckle!
CHORALE & CHORALIERS
Juliana Child, Alex Gartner & Stephany Heath, conductors
Sing dem Herrn by Michael Praetorius/arr. Walter DePue
Translation: Sing to the Lord, Alleluia. All who love him praise his name. Sing with tambourine and harp.
Michael Praetorious (1571–1621) was an influential composer during the transition between the Renaissance and early Baroque periods. This song’s melody was sourced from an image of Praetorious from 1606 which featured on its canvas a series of diamond-shaped musical notes (a precursor to modern musical notation). In these times, it was common practice to adorn portraits and title pages of publications with these so-called dedicatory canons—which in this context is a (dedicatory?) melody that can be layered atop itself while maintaining integrity and harmony.
Vuela by Carlos Cordero
Translation: Bird, fly high, fly free, fly! Together we can fly. We can be free. We can fly, together. For the composer, the act of singing serves as a reminder that by trusting his voice and trusting himself, he can soar like a bird. He writes, “I want to remind [others] that we can go far together, encouraging each other to be the kindest, most loving version of our little inner birds.”
I
Believe by
Mark Miller
The text of this piece is about believing, wishing, longing, and choosing to find the light in the darkest of places. It’s a sentiment that’s particularly fitting when one considers its origin; it was found shortly after the end of World War II, etched in the wall of a cellar in western Germany where nine Jewish refugees hid from German secret police without being caught. There, they dwelled in silence and darkness both day and night, preparing meals for each other thanks to rations provided anonymously by compassionate neighbors. The original text best translates to “I believe in the sun, though it be dark. I believe in God, though he be silent. I believe in neighborly love, though it be unable to reveal itself.”
Holden Raley & Amelia Mesa, soloists
ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES
Will There Really Be a Morning?
by Craig Hella Johnson
Emily Dickinson’s poetry challenges us to think more deeply about things that we often regard as commonplace, such as the simple expectation that morning will always follow night. In seeking a concrete, tangible definition of “morning,” one calls into question whether there really is such a thing is as “day,” or if human beings have only romanticized the natural rising and setting of the sun in an effort to better understand our surroundings. This transcendently beautiful setting of one of Dickinson’s most famous poems invites both performer and listener to meditate on the wonders of the natural world.
Camino Caminante by Stephen Hatfield
Translation: Traveler, there is no path. You make your own path as you walk.
This original piece, created by respected composer of multicultural music Stephen Hatfield, is written in a style derived from the many musical cultures of Latin America. Lively and layered percussion provides the foundation for the singers to build multiple musical motifs on top of one another, each distinct from one another both rhythmically and textually. Both the Spanish and English text were derived from a poem by Spanish poet Antonio Machado (1875-1939) that encourages us to forge our own path through life.
YOUNG SINGERS
Alex Gartner, conductor
If You Want to Go
by Philip Silvey
If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. This simple African proverb has a profound message, one that strongly resonates with PCC’s belief that great things are accomplished when we work together.
Lift Me Up!
by Andy Beck
Written in a characteristically gospel style, this piece conveys a tandem message of self-empowerment (When the world starts bringin’ me down, gonna turn my spirit around) and strength through community (Whenever I’m feeling lost and low, lift me up). It speaks to the dual importance of mustering courage within ourselves to face the challenges of the day while not being afraid to lean on others to motivate us and keep us going—a fitting message for our time.
Rylee Rogers & Miley Owens, soloists
COMBINED CHOIRS
Juliana Child, conductor
Blessing by
Katie Moran Bart
This traditional Irish blessing with its famous opening lines—May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back—has been set to music countless times and is well known throughout the world. The text serves as a simple yet deeply meaningful way to wish someone well on their journey through life. As we depart this evening, we leave you with this beautiful piece that encapsulates all that we want for these remarkable young people; from the littlest ones whose journeys have just begun, to the oldest ones who are preparing to venture forth from the Pensacola Children’s Chorus and onto the next chapter of their lives: that they may find direction, comfort, happiness, success, and above all, love.
PARTICIPANTS IN THE PERFORMANCE
Photography
Garrett Hallbauer, Brian Margavich, Amanda Margavich
Playbill Coordinator & Designer
Garrett Hallbauer
Instrumentalists
Piano
Megan Andzulis
Flute
Monika Durbin
CHOIR LEADERSHIP TEAMS
Choir Representatives
Stephanie Bell
Shannon Coleman
Keisha Cramblet
Brittany Cummings
Rita Enderson
Moira Hartsfield
Brittney Jackson
Holley Raley
Dacia Turner
Kendra Turner
Sound Technicians
Scot Cameron, Jeff Jordan
Videography/Streaming Director
Doug Lee
Percussionists
Jordan Wood
Leah Yelverton
Cello
Logan Perez
Student Interns
Vera Kate Bell
Beatrice Bunnell
Ainsley Cramblet
Peyton Dykes
Zoey Jefferson
Lilly Remington
Layke Richmond
Gracie Slocum
McKenzie Taylor
Shaelyn Wilkerson
BEST OF LUCK TO PENSACOLA CHILDREN’S CHORUS Festival/Lyric
Choir
Srivatsa Gupta and Jennifer Hoekstra
("KJ & Robbie's Mom and Dad")
SING OUT. SING LOUD. SING OFTEN.
ZoeyKeep singing and dreaming Zoey!
We are proud of you and your dedication to PCC. We love you!
Dad, Mom, Kyndall, Ashlyn, & Violet! Willow, Hazel, Harlow & Myrtle are cheering from home.
proudly supports the Pensacola Children’s Chorus, and is especially proud of Zoey Jefferson!
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Since the beginning, the Pensacola Children’s Chorus has been closely connected to the Escambia County Public Schools and Santa Rosa County School District. Members of PCC’s staff routinely lead professional development workshops and serve as in-classroom consultants for local music teachers. PCC hosts the area third graders each year for a special performance of Christmas on the Coast and was able to take Hauntcert to 3 different elementary schools.
In January 2023, PCC was awarded a multiyear grant through the Escambia Children’s Trust, a taxpayer funded agency which provides leadership, funding, services, and research on behalf of Escambia County’s children to ensure they grow up to be healthy, productive, stable community members. Focusing on a target population of at-risk youth, ECT has provided membership for over 60 young people in PCC’s transformational choral programs.
In March 2023, PCC partnered with the City of Pensacola to launch Pensacola Sings, a network of community choirs based in neighborhood resource centers with an aim to make singing opportunities more available to the city’s youth.
The Pensacola Children’s Chorus regularly partners with our city’s leading arts organizations, including Pensacola Opera, Ballet Pensacola, the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, the Choral Society of Pensacola, and Pensacola Little Theatre. These collaborations include full concerts, joint educational programs, and the exchange of costumes, set pieces, and equipment. Pensacola is fortunate to have such a vibrant arts community.
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OUR TEAM
Program & Administrative Staff
Alex Gartner Artistic & Executive Director
Juliana Joy Child Assistant Artistic Director
Resident Choir Staff
Evelyn Aguirre Assistant Director
Megan Andzulis Principal Accompanist
Michael Dennis Choreographer
Cheyenne Farley Director of Advancement
Miguel Aldahondo Director of Community Programs
Courtney Johnson Membership & Executive Office Coordinator
Brooke Dykes Program Manager
Stephany Heath Associate Director
Ashley Leigh Associate Accompanist
Katie Olson Assistant Director
Community Program Staff
Holley Driver Director, Tri-City Children’s Choir
Production Support
Dominic Krippes Technical Director
Aaron Adams Associate Accompanist
Lindsay Riddle Choreographer
Isabelle Schrack Musicianship Instructor
Heidi Siren Costume Designer
Garrett Hallbauer Marketing & Communications Manager
Alyssa Bramwell Stage Manager
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Xochilt Linza Assistant Director, Pensacola SINGS
Jeff Jordan Sound Technician
Lance Brannon Lighting Designer
Officers Members
Sheila Dunn, DM President
Karla Ent Vice President
Jessica Hyche Treasurer
Rita Miller Secretary
Advisory Members
Regan Bell Alumni Representative
Sri Gupta
Anna Higgins
Deborah Moss
Evan Martin Family Representative
Tom Owens
Noelle Poole
Andrea Rosenbaum
Beatrice Bunnell Singer Representative
Jimmy Stapleton
Lusharon Wiley, EdD
Robin Zimmern
INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE: FEATURING DIANE APPLEYARD
A member of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus learns so much more than just song and dance. Behind every note and step is an important lesson. Whether it’s responsibility, teamwork, accountability, empathy, or confidence, every musical motion has an extramusical benefit.
Diane Appleyard recognizes the importance of these lessons. As a veteran supporter of the chorus and contributor to PCC’s Tuition Assistance, she has witnessed firsthand the impact of her investment, including a number of family members who have gone through the program. We sat down with Diane to learn why she invests so generously in PCC’s singers.
What about PCC inspires you?
We are so very lucky to have a rich arts and culture in our community, and the Children’s Chorus helps plant this seed early in life. Not only does PCC encourage a love of music, it also builds friendship and responsibility. At the chorus, they are mindful of the messages they convey and carefully consider what meaning both the singers and audience can learn. This intentionality provides children with a deep appreciation for music and understanding of others.
What motivated you to make your first gift to PCC?
My family has been involved in and supporting the Children’s Chorus since the very beginning when the then-director of the
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, Grier Williams, had an idea to form a youth choir. Since the beginning, PCC has always focused on using music to build a wholesome experience for the youth of our community.
Why do you continue to support PCC?
I continue to support the chorus for many reasons. Practically, I recognize that none of the incredible cultural organizations in our community can flourish on ticket sales alone. Philanthropy is required to support the quality that our community expects.
Personally, supporting PCC means supporting my family. My niece, Leslie, was one of the first members of PCC in the early years. My nephew Rick was involved as well. Most recently, my great-niece Ellie just graduated last year and adored her experience. My now 5-year-old great-niece Palmer is already eyeing her moment on the stage in a few short years. But even when I don’t have a family member on stage, I am always entertained by every performance. The combination of singing, choreography, and costumes is something I never want to miss.
What impact do you hope to make with your investment?
Every donation to the Children’s Chorus supports a lifelong love of music and lasting friendships. Giving to the youth of today leads to the great citizens of tomorrow.
What would you say to someone who is considering making a gift to PCC for the first time?
No matter how big or small, your gift is an investment. It plants a seed, one that provides opportunity for children throughout our community to enjoy a special music-filled experience that they will take with them throughout their life.
We hope you will consider joining Diane as a champion for the children of Northwest Florida. PCC’s Tuition Assistance Program provides need-based scholarships to children with financial need. All donations are 100% tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUPPORT
Can we count on you?
We are so thankful for your presence here today. Your ticket purchase helps PCC create memorable, dynamic performances for singers and audience members alike. But did you know that ticket sales provide PCC with less than 10% of the funds required to create these experiences year after year? For this reason and so much more, we are grateful to the hundreds of individuals, families, local businesses, and grantors who generously invest in our programs and in our singers. We’d love to count you as a member of our PCC family of supporters. There are many ways in which you can financially support our mission of transforming young lives through music:
Programs
Individual Donation or Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Donations to our program fund directly support the operation of our 14 choirs which meet in downtown Pensacola and throughout Northwest Florida and Southwest Alabama. This fund helps us maintain high quality educational programs and performances that our singers and community have come to expect and appreciate.
Tuition Assistance
Individual Donation or Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities Available
This year alone, over 50% of PCC singers qualify for some level of financial assistance. As such, PCC aggressively pursues a goal of at least $40,000 to help ensure that every child—regardless of their family’s financial situation—can participate in PCC’s lifechanging education programs.
Endowment Fund
To honor the 26-year tenure of PCC’s Founding Artistic Directors, the Susan & Allen Pote Endowment Fund was established in 2016. Once the fund crests $1M, earned interest will be used to furnish capital improvements aimed at making our programs even more spectacular. We are nearly halfway there! Stock transfers are welcome gifts, as are individual donations.
Scholarships
Donations to PCC’s scholarship fund provide financial awards to returning singers and graduating seniors. Through a competitive application process, qualifying singers are selected for their demonstrated commitment to the program, outstanding musicianship, and leadership within their respective choirs.
