Did you know there are currently no full-time upper voice choral ensembles in the US?
As a Foundation, we felt drawn to address this gap, and have appointed six amazing women to a new upper voice ensemble, Lyyra! They will expand our capacity to reach more communities and classrooms across the US with our Education Hubs model and will invite exciting new commissions and arrangements. Additionally, we hope this will give a spark to the American choral scene, inspiring further conversations and more opportunities that fill this deficit.
The initial startup cost for this ensemble is $50,000. This includes paying the singers a competitive daily rate for their rehearsal and performance time, as well as travel and per diem expenses. Our broader annual goal to support our vision for this ensemble — including offering them full-time positions and a robust concert and education schedule — is $300,000. Lyyra will be actively involved in the Foundation's work by Spring 2024, and we look forward to sharing their vocal artistry with you.
If you're as excited about Lyyra as we are, we invite you to consider making a gift to support the ensemble's founding!
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who have already chosen to support this new group!
Want to hear Lyyra first?
Supporters who give $250 or more will receive exclusive behind-the-scenes content throughout the 2023-24 season as the group forms, rehearses, and makes their debut as a Foundation ensemble!
Supporters who give $2,500 or more will receive early access to Lyyra's first filmed performance, and will be recognized as Founding Donors of the ensemble in our promotional materials.
Gifts to support Lyyra also automatically qualify donors for our Friends program — check out the additional benefits you'll receive here!
If you have questions, or would like to discuss a donation, please contact Kirby Richards, Development Director (kirby@voces8.foundation). Should you prefer, donations by check can be made out to 'The VOCES8 Foundation' (memo line: Lyyra) and mailed to 171 Main St, Suite 240 / Los Altos, CA 94022.
The VOCES8 Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization qualified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The amount of your contribution may be tax deductible for federal income tax purposes to the fullest extent of the law. Please consult your tax advisor for proper treatment of the contribution. Our Employer Identification Number is 82-3591568. No goods or services are provided in return for this contribution, and no monetary value is ascribed for these benefits.