Operating Support Grant

LSYC collects and analyzes data of the number of schools represented in our programming. That data is analyzed to determine areas or schools that we are not seeing represented in our programming. We then create clear objectives, strategies, and tactics to reach those areas. An example of this was when we identified a school not represented in our programming and strategically planned for a Prelude program to be held at this school, eventually resulting in representation from that school in our Resident Choir program. We also use assessment in qualitative formats to evaluate the quality of our programs. With the growth of our Prelude program, we have observed that our singers are coming into our Resident Choir program more prepared, resulting in higher-quality musicianship and family commitment to the program. Frequent collaborative invitations from other arts organizations attest to the artistic achievement and distinction of LSYC’s contributions. At the end of each season or special event (ie. Summer Sing), survey data is requested from audience members, families, and singers to provide input and assessment of LSYC's artistic offerings and operations. The staff and board will review these surveys with ideas and suggestions to be considered when planning for the next season. Some examples of improvements that were made from gathering survey data (feedback) include adaptation of concert times, increasing the opportunities for community building, and adding a special day tour experience for our intermediate choir. In addition to quantitative strategies of assessment and evaluation, the directors are consistently using their professional experience and knowledge to assess the level of quality our choirs. Frequent collaborative invitations from local and regional performing arts organizations attest to the artistic achievement and distinction of LSYC’s recent performance contributions. We also evaluate admission statistics annually, analyzing patterns or trends in reasons for withdrawal, annual retention, and work to improve programs to meet family needs. Social media also plays a crucial role in assessment. Audience members leave comments on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram based on their input about a show or outreach program, the accessibility of particular performance venues, etc. Even more than audience surveys, LSYC has found that authentic assessment comes from social media platforms that are accessible to anyone.One of LSYC’s values is INCLUSIVITY, encouraging the participation of singers and families of diverse backgrounds from throughout the area. It is part of our five year strategic plan to focus our efforts on increasing our efforts of inclusivity and diversity. We have a place and a program for all singers who wish to participate. While we audition singers for a placement in our Resident Choir program, if singers do not attain the level of ability required, they will be invited to participate in another LSYC introductory program such as Prelude. Evidence of this can be found in our Resident Choir Singer Handbook under audition and enrollment process. LSYC is the only youth choral non-profit organization in the Northland area. Our singers travel as far as 50 miles each week to participate in the Resident Choir program. LSYC's Honor Choir program has an even greater reach, expanding to a 100 mile radius of singers invited to join LSYC's choirs for a day of high-quality music making. LSYC's Honor Choir day also brings MN area music educators together for an opportunity to workshop, learn, share, and grow as professionals. LSYC's Cantemus choir recently performed at the American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota’s State Conference to represent the Northland along with two other top choirs from the state. Cantemus received a standing ovation for their performance from choral music educators from across the state of Minnesota. In addition to being a benefit for the state of MN arts community, LSYC is committed to ma