One of the most important parts of starting the year with a choir or vocal class is building a sense of unity. Students walk into rehearsal with different levels of experience, confidence, and enthusiasm—but the moment they start to see themselves as one ensemble, the music changes.
That’s why I created the Ensemble Identity Statement activity. It’s a simple, engaging way to get every singer thinking about who they are together, not just as individuals.
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What Is an Ensemble Identity Statement?
Think of it as a “mission statement” for your choir, but created collaboratively by your students. Together, you brainstorm words and phrases that describe how you want to sound, act, and feel as an ensemble. Then, you combine those ideas into a powerful statement you can revisit all year long.
Examples from my classes include:
• We are united.
• We are prepared.
• We are joyful.
• We are one voice.
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Why This Activity Works
- Builds belonging: Every student’s voice contributes to shaping the group identity.
- Encourages ownership: Students are more invested in rehearsal expectations they helped define.
- Reinforces positive habits: Words like “focused,” “confident,” and “respectful” become anchors for rehearsal culture.
- Creates a reference point: Post your ensemble identity statement in the rehearsal space to remind singers what they committed to.
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How to Facilitate It
- Brainstorm as a class: Ask, “What kind of ensemble do we want to be?” Write every suggestion on the board.
- Narrow it down: Have students vote or group similar ideas.
- Craft your statement: Turn the list into a powerful, present-tense declaration beginning with We are….
- Display and revisit: Post it on the wall, your slides, or concert programs. Refer to it during rehearsals to bring students back to their shared identit
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Ready-to-Use Resource
I’ve put together a printable Ensemble Identity Statement activity that walks your students through the process step by step. It includes brainstorming prompts, guided worksheets, and templates for creating your final statement.
👉 Grab the Ensemble Identity Statement Activity on TpT.
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Final Thoughts
Music-making is about more than notes and rhythms—it’s about belonging. Starting the year with an ensemble identity statement helps you create a culture of belonging from day one. When singers feel united, the sound of your choir will reflect it.
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