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New Multi-generational Choir Offers Young and Old a “Glee-ful” Experience
The Santa Cruz World Choir & Orchestra Helps Fill Gap in Public School Education

SANTA CRUZ, CA—AUGUST 12, 2010 – Americans are infatuated with singing –  American Idol and Glee have brought the exhilaration of singing to virtually every US household via television, internet or mobile device. But despite the popularity of singing and playing instruments among all age groups today, state budget cuts have crippled many music education programs across the United States.

To offer a new option for music education in a group setting, composer and music educator, Stephen L. Bigger, has founded the Santa Cruz World Choir & Orchestra (SCWCO) for high school age and older adults. Minimal singing experience is required to audition, and skills training will be included in each rehearsal.

“Music offers young adults a creative outlet where they can shine in a non-academic area and gain self confidence. The SCWCO also gives families an activity they can do together,” said Bigger. “Participating will be fun and we will entertain audiences this holiday season with significant music that people will get excited about.” The SCWCO’s repertoire includes a wide range of music from around the world, from traditional to modern, ranging from Gregorian to Gaelic to Gospel.

Bigger plans to build the choir to 60 voices. An ensemble of initially 12 to 20 musicians will accompany the choir for performances. Music teachers or skilled performers on traditional instruments such as strings, woodwind, brass, percussion, and instruments from around the world will work alongside students. The orchestra will eventually grow to full symphonic instrumentation. "My vision is to be part of a thriving community of collaborative performance ensembles that provide the opportunity for people to create wonderful music with others and to enrich the lives of audiences," said Bigger.

About SCWCO Director, Stephen L. Bigger
Stephen L. Bigger is a versatile music professional who has been active full time in music performance and production since 1981 when he formed RockArbor Music. Bigger has written hundreds of pieces ranging from choir anthems and instrumental orchestrations to pop, rock, folk, and gospel songs, and produced professional recordings for many artists and songwriters. His work is distributed all over the world. As a staff producer in Nashville, Bigger produced over 300 songs per year for seven years. He has directed numerous choirs and symphonies throughout the US. Between 2008 and 2010, Bigger was Choral Director and Theater Technical Director at Aptos High School. Stephen has a BA in Music and is a member of: the National Association for Music Education, Teachers’ Association of California Santa Cruz Branch, American Choral Directors’ Association, California Alliance for Arts Education, and the American Society for Composers, Authors, & Publishers. For more information visit: http://www.rockarbormusic.com/history.html