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Francisco J. Núñez on using the “Four Rs” in music
Last month, YPC Founder and Artistic Director Francisco J. Núñez delivered a keynote address at the 2021 American Choral Directors Association National Conference. One key takeaway from the address was how the choral community can utilize the four R’s–Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink–by applying those same concepts to the musical landscape in 2021.
When the choral field came to a halt in 2020, it provided an opportunity for reflection, and one thing Francisco realized, is that we still have a lot to learn. Choristers are asking for the space to express their views, and it has shown us that we need to continue to evolve, listen, and learn more. Diversity is not just putting people from diverse backgrounds into the same room, but then creating space to build, embrace, listen, and be with each other. It is possible that the world is wide enough for us all to participate.
By using The Four Rs, we can let the new in without abandoning the past:
Reduce
Let’s create access by reducing barriers that keep communities from participating.
Reuse
We can perform standard repertoire through the sounds of new diverse voices.
Recycle
We must find ways of making new art forms and creations from old traditions.
Rethink
It’s time to consider the impact our actions have on society, not just our individual communities.
The lessons of this past year have prompted YPC to do all of the above. What have we learned so far? Our singers are resilient and stronger than we know.