Happy Holidays from the NYU Children's Chorus

The NYU Children's Chorus—open to any singer between the ages of 6 and 12, with or without prior singing experience—is a an outreach program offered through Steinhardt to the community free of charge. Participants learn the fundamentals of vocal technique, musicianship, and teamwork, and perform as part of a group of more than 75 children.

NYU Stories sat down with Children's Chorus founder and 2013 GRAMMY Music Educator Award finalist Elaine Gates on the eve of her last concert as director of the group, in December 2014. Gates, who was Steinhardt's director of music education for many years, is also a former teacher to stars such as Natalie Portman and Mariah Carey.