Brooklyn Choir Project: Harmony In The Heart Of NYC's Indie Scene
In the bustling, diverse tapestry that is Brooklyn, New York City's most populous borough, a unique musical phenomenon is taking root, blending the timeless beauty of choral singing with the raw, innovative energy of the indie music scene. This is the Brooklyn Choir Project, a collective that stands out not just for its vocal artistry, but for its pioneering approach to reimagining what a choir can be in the 21st century. As a vibrant cultural hub, Brooklyn provides the perfect backdrop for such an ambitious and community-focused endeavor, offering a fertile ground where tradition meets contemporary expression.
Once an independent city before becoming part of New York in 1898, Brooklyn has always pulsed with a distinct identity. Today, it is enjoying a period of growth and affluence, boasting a population of about 2.7 million people as of 2020—more than any other borough. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Brooklyn offers something for everyone, whether you’re a foodie, history buff, art lover, or outdoor enthusiast. It's within this rich historical and cultural landscape that the Brooklyn Choir Project has found its voice, contributing to the borough's ever-evolving reputation as a crucible of artistic innovation.
Table of Contents
- Brooklyn: A Canvas of Culture and Community
- The Genesis of the Brooklyn Choir Project
- The Sound of Collaboration: Featured Artists and Arrangements
- Community at Its Core: More Than Just Music
- On the Road and On Stage: Upcoming Performances and Venues
- The Broader Choral Landscape of Brooklyn
- The Future Harmony: What's Next for the Brooklyn Choir Project?
- Conclusion: A New Voice for a New Era
Brooklyn: A Canvas of Culture and Community
Brooklyn, a borough of New York City, is located at the westernmost end of Long Island in the state of New York. Coextensive with Kings County, it is New York City's second-largest borough in land area (after Queens) and its most populous. With nearly 2.7 million residents, Brooklyn is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and artistic expressions. This vibrant energy is palpable in every neighborhood, from the historic brownstones of Park Slope to the artistic enclaves of Bushwick and the bustling streets of Downtown Brooklyn.
The borough's rich history, once an independent city, has fostered a strong sense of community and local pride. This ethos extends deeply into its cultural scene, which is renowned for its independent spirit and willingness to push boundaries. From world-class museums and theaters to intimate music venues and community art spaces, Brooklyn offers an unparalleled array of things to do. Whether you're looking for the best bars and restaurants, unique tourist attractions, or simply a new idea for how to spend a weekend, Brooklyn has something to offer. It is precisely this environment of innovation, diversity, and community engagement that makes Brooklyn the ideal home for a project as unique and forward-thinking as the Brooklyn Choir Project.
The Genesis of the Brooklyn Choir Project
The Brooklyn Choir Project is a relatively new and exciting ensemble, comprised of 24 singers and songwriters. Its inception marks a significant moment in the evolution of choral music, particularly within the context of New York City's dynamic music landscape. Unlike traditional choirs that often adhere strictly to classical or gospel repertoires, the Brooklyn Choir Project was founded with a distinctly modern vision: to merge traditional choir singing with the energy and ethos of New York’s indie music community. This innovative approach allows them to tackle new choral arrangements of tunes by a diverse group of artists, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly new.
While New York City has a rich history of choral excellence, exemplified by groups like the New York Choir Project, founded in 2012 with the intent of using group singing as a development tool for organizations across the city, and the globally recognized Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, the Brooklyn Choir Project carves out its own unique niche. The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, directed by Carol Cymbala, wife of the main pastor Jim Cymbala, has received six Grammy Awards and sold over 4 million albums over thirty-plus years, making them one of the most recognized and awarded choirs today. The Brooklyn Choir Project, however, is not aiming to replicate these successes through traditional means. Instead, it seeks to explore new artistic territories, bridging genres and fostering a collaborative spirit that is deeply rooted in the indie music ethos.
A Fresh Take on Choral Music
What truly sets the Brooklyn Choir Project apart is its commitment to a "fresh take" on choral music. This isn't just about singing different songs; it's about fundamentally altering the creative process and the resulting sound. By drawing its repertoire from local, independent artists and arranging their tunes for choir, the project infuses the precision and power of choral singing with the raw, often experimental, emotional depth of indie music. This fusion results in a sound that is accessible to a wider audience, appealing not only to traditional choral enthusiasts but also to fans of contemporary, alternative, and experimental music.
The project's emphasis on "new choral arrangements of tunes by a diverse group" signifies a deliberate move away from established choral canons. This approach fosters creativity within the ensemble and provides a platform for indie artists to hear their work transformed and amplified by a collective voice. It’s a reciprocal relationship where the choir gains fresh, relevant material, and the indie artists gain a unique, powerful interpretation of their work, reaching new listeners through an unexpected medium. This forward-thinking methodology positions the Brooklyn Choir Project as a leader in the contemporary choral movement, demonstrating how traditional forms can evolve and remain relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape.
The Sound of Collaboration: Featured Artists and Arrangements
The essence of the Brooklyn Choir Project lies in its collaborative spirit, which is evident in its choice of repertoire and the artists it chooses to work with. A prime example of this synergy is their collaboration with Arone Dyer, a renowned musician known for her work with the experimental duo Buke & Gase. The project has performed choral arrangements of their songs, notably "In the Company of Fish." This particular arrangement was crafted by Jaren Feeley, highlighting the project's dedication to engaging talented arrangers who can translate indie tracks into compelling choral pieces.
The mention of "In the Company of Fish by Buke & Gase from the album General Dome performed by Brooklyn Choir Project choral arrangement by Jaren Feeley" provides a concrete illustration of their artistic process. Such collaborations are not merely covers; they are reinterpretations that bring a new dimension to the original work. The fact that the Brooklyn Choir Project's work, like the performance featuring Arone Dyer, "appears in 140 other collections" and is available as a "Scholars Alliance exclusive" speaks volumes about the project's reach and the recognition it has garnered within academic and artistic circles. This wide dissemination underscores the unique appeal and artistic merit of their collaborative endeavors, attracting attention from diverse audiences and platforms.
Weaving Indie Threads into Choral Tapestries
The process of weaving indie threads into choral tapestries is intricate and requires a deep understanding of both genres. It's not simply about adding voices to a pop song; it's about dissecting the original composition, understanding its emotional core, and then rebuilding it with the unique textures and harmonies that a choir can provide. This involves careful consideration of vocal ranges, dynamics, and the interplay between individual voices and the collective sound. The result is a richer, more complex interpretation that honors the original while elevating it to a new artistic plane.
This innovative approach broadens the appeal of choral music, making it accessible and exciting for listeners who might not typically engage with traditional choir performances. By presenting familiar or emerging indie tunes in a choral format, the Brooklyn Choir Project invites audiences to experience music in a fresh, unexpected way. It challenges preconceived notions about what a choir should sound like and demonstrates the versatility and contemporary relevance of the human voice in a collective setting. This artistic daring not only enriches the local music scene but also contributes to a global conversation about the evolution of musical forms and genres.
Community at Its Core: More Than Just Music
Beyond the innovative musical arrangements and collaborations, the Brooklyn Choir Project places a profound emphasis on community. The sentiment, "Community is at the center of everything I do," resonates deeply with the project's ethos. In a city as vast and often isolating as New York, finding a sense of belonging and shared purpose is invaluable. The choir provides precisely this, offering a space where individuals can connect through their shared passion for music.
The joy derived from this communal experience is palpable, as evidenced by the statement, "There is a particular joy in finding harmony with others, and I've made some great new friends in the." This highlights the social and emotional benefits that extend far beyond the musical performance itself. For the 24 singers and songwriters who comprise the Brooklyn Choir Project, it's not just about perfecting a piece; it's about building relationships, fostering mutual support, and experiencing the unique bond that comes from creating something beautiful together. This focus on human connection makes the Brooklyn Choir Project more than just a musical ensemble; it's a vibrant community hub.
Fostering Connections in a Vibrant Borough
In a borough as diverse and dynamic as Brooklyn, fostering connections is crucial for any community-based initiative. The Brooklyn Choir Project contributes significantly to this by bringing together individuals from various backgrounds, all united by their love for singing and innovation. Their rehearsals and performances, potentially utilizing spaces like the Brooklyn Centre Stage Dance Studio at 495 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215, serve as gathering points where friendships blossom and creative partnerships are forged. This contributes to the rich social fabric of Brooklyn, reinforcing the idea that shared artistic endeavors can build strong, resilient communities.
The project's emphasis on community also extends to its audience. By engaging with local indie artists and performing in accessible venues, the Brooklyn Choir Project invites the wider Brooklyn community to participate in and appreciate their unique musical journey. This inclusive approach helps to break down barriers between performers and listeners, creating a more interactive and engaging cultural experience. In essence, the Brooklyn Choir Project embodies the spirit of Brooklyn itself: diverse, innovative, and deeply rooted in community.
On the Road and On Stage: Upcoming Performances and Venues
The Brooklyn Choir Project is not just a studio endeavor; it's a live performing entity that brings its unique sound to audiences. As of recent information, the Brooklyn Choir Project is currently touring across one country and has one upcoming concert scheduled. This demonstrates their active engagement with the music scene and their commitment to sharing their artistry beyond the rehearsal room.
A significant upcoming event for the Brooklyn Choir Project is their concert at the First Unitarian Congregational Society in Brooklyn on November 14, 2024. This concert is a testament to their collaborative spirit, as they will be sharing the stage with a diverse lineup of artists including The Narcotix, Fusilier, NTHNL, Taylor Ashton, Arushi Jain, Arone Dyer, and Dustin Lowman. The venue itself, located at 119 Pierrepont St, Brooklyn, is a historic and acoustically rich space, providing an ideal setting for the choir's distinctive sound. Such multi-artist bills are characteristic of the indie music scene, further solidifying the Brooklyn Choir Project's place within this vibrant community.
The Live Experience: A Must-See Event
Attending a Brooklyn Choir Project concert is more than just listening to music; it's an immersive experience. The combination of traditional choral power with the innovative arrangements of indie tunes creates a dynamic and captivating performance. Audiences can expect to witness the synergy of 24 voices, meticulously arranged to bring new life to familiar or emerging melodies. The energy of the indie scene, combined with the precision of choral singing, promises a unique and memorable evening.
The opportunity to see the Brooklyn Choir Project live, especially alongside other talented indie artists, is a chance to witness the cutting edge of contemporary choral music. It's an invitation to discover conversations, thoughts, photos, and videos related to the project, as seen on platforms like Threads, allowing deeper engagement with their creative process and community. For anyone looking for unique things to do in Brooklyn, or seeking out new music that pushes boundaries, a Brooklyn Choir Project concert is undoubtedly a must-see event, offering a glimpse into the future of vocal artistry.
The Broader Choral Landscape of Brooklyn
While the Brooklyn Choir Project is carving out its unique niche, it exists within a broader and historically rich choral landscape in Brooklyn. This context helps to highlight the project's distinct contribution and innovation. The most prominent example is undoubtedly the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. With over thirty years of history, 22 albums, 4 million in sales, and an astounding six Grammy Awards, they are one of the most recognized and certainly the most awarded choir today. Their powerful gospel sound and widespread influence set a high bar for vocal excellence and community impact.
Another significant institution is the Brooklyn Youth Chorus. Their "Spring Sings" performances, featuring their most advanced singers, are highly anticipated events, such as the one scheduled for May 17, 2025, at the Theater at City Tech. The Brooklyn Youth Chorus focuses on developing young talent and fostering a love for choral music from an early age, contributing to the future of the art form. The New York Choir Project, founded in 2012, also plays a vital role, using group singing as a development tool for organizations across New York City, showcasing the diverse applications of choral work beyond performance.
Within this rich ecosystem of choral excellence, the Brooklyn Choir Project stands out by deliberately merging the traditional with the indie. While the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir represents a pinnacle of gospel music and the Brooklyn Youth Chorus nurtures future generations, the Brooklyn Choir Project is actively redefining the genre's boundaries. It demonstrates that choral music can be a dynamic, evolving art form that embraces contemporary sounds and collaborates with artists from diverse backgrounds. This positions the Brooklyn Choir Project not in competition, but as a complementary and pioneering force, enriching Brooklyn's already vibrant musical tapestry and offering something truly novel to both performers and audiences.
The Future Harmony: What's Next for the Brooklyn Choir Project?
As the Brooklyn Choir Project continues to gain traction and critical acclaim, the future looks bright for this innovative ensemble. Their ongoing commitment to merging traditional choir singing with the energy and ethos of New York’s indie music community suggests a trajectory of continued artistic exploration and expansion. The project's success in attracting talented singers and collaborating with notable artists like Arone Dyer indicates a strong foundation for sustained growth and influence within the music industry.
While specific future album releases for the Brooklyn Choir Project are not detailed in the provided information (unlike the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir's "I'll Say 'Yes'" album, scheduled for release in 2008), their active touring schedule and upcoming concerts point to a focus on live performance and direct audience engagement. The ability to connect with audiences in person, sharing their unique sound and collaborative spirit, is crucial for building a dedicated following and solidifying their place in the cultural landscape. We can anticipate more groundbreaking collaborations, unique arrangements, and perhaps even original compositions that further define their signature sound. The Brooklyn Choir Project is poised to become a significant voice, not just in Brooklyn, but in the broader conversation about the evolution of choral music and its intersection with contemporary genres.
Conclusion: A New Voice for a New Era
The Brooklyn Choir Project stands as a compelling testament to the power of innovation and community in the arts. By seamlessly blending the discipline of traditional choral singing with the adventurous spirit of the indie music scene, they have created a sound that is both deeply rooted and refreshingly modern. This unique approach not only enriches Brooklyn's already vibrant cultural landscape but also offers a new pathway for choral music to connect with contemporary audiences.
From their collaborative performances with artists like Arone Dyer to their upcoming concert at the First Unitarian Congregational Society, the Brooklyn Choir Project exemplifies the dynamic energy that defines New York City's most populous borough. They are more than just a group of singers; they are a community fostering harmony, friendship, and artistic exploration. As they continue to tour and expand their repertoire, the Brooklyn Choir Project invites us all to experience the profound joy of finding harmony with others and to witness the exciting evolution of music. We encourage you to seek out their performances, explore their collaborative works, and share your thoughts on this groundbreaking ensemble. What other traditional art forms do you think could benefit from an indie twist?
Member Landing — Brooklyn Youth Chorus
Brooklyn Youth Chorus
Brooklyn Youth Chorus
