The year is coming to an end and soon the light will return. It has been a year largely marked by anxiety and darkness in our world around us. More than ever, we need the light, hope and community and more than ever we need the music that gives comfort, hope and joy. We hope that the upcoming weekends can bring calmness and hope, light, peace and time for reflection and community.

EVTA’s new board has already started its work but will formally come into force in the new year. We think that we have a broad representation of different areas and can therefore be spokespeople for most different areas that the profession of singing pedagogy can involve. The board has expertise in various singing genres, experience of working with children and young people, amateurs and professionals, and knowledge of choirs at all levels. We represent private singing lessons as well as teaching at music and opera colleges and universities. The board also has many years of experience in teacher training in music education  and vocal pedgogy. Research and doctoral studies are also represented. In addition, most of us have also been chairman in our respective countries’ association or otherwise participated in board work.
 
The new board consists of President Ellen Pieterse from the Netherlands, Vice President Bo Rosenkull from Sweden, Treasurer Christa Bornhijm from the Netherlands, Secretary Edwin Pitt Mansfield from the UK, Member-at large and Webmaster Edgar Skarbulis, Member-at-large Eleanor Forbes from Germany and finally, Member-at-large Juho Eerola from Finland.

We are all very much looking forward to continuing and developing the work that Susan Yarnall-Monks has led for so many years as President. We welcome ideas, thoughts and suggestions from all of you. After a few Zoom meetings, we will meet at the beginning of next year in Karlsruhe and, among other things, plan further the long-awaited Eurovox conference in Lucerne in August 2026. More information is available when you click here.

Before we soon get the Christmas holiday, it’s a busy time for many with exams, performances and closing concerts. In Sweden, the choirs are at their best preparing for Lucia, which is celebrated on December 13. It is a tradition that originates from the 19th century. Lucia symbolizes the coming end of the long winter nights and the return of light to the world. With these musical greeting cards, we want to wish you a relaxing holiday season; a Lucia celebration, some ” ABBA ” and finally, a Christmas card from the other side of the globe.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the EVTA board!
Bo Rosenkull, Vice President