Dear FVA Colleagues:

The FVA Executive Committee has been monitoring the COVID-19 situation, and its continued effects on travel and events throughout the nation. After careful deliberation with our partners at Head’s House of Music, we have together made the difficult decision to cancel the annual Head’s House Choral Panorama and FVA Summer Conference scheduled for July 23–25.

In making this decision, we considered our contractual obligations with the host hotel, our inability to predict the financial capacity of schools to support teacher travel, and the uncertainty surrounding the timeline for easing of social distancing guidelines. We hate to sacrifice the Choral Panorama and Summer Conference, but it would be unwise for us to proceed given the expected low attendance that these many difficulties would cause.

We are all hopeful that the 2020–2021 school year will start on time with a return to our normal mode of face-to-face instruction. With that return in mind, the FVA leadership is working with Head’s House of Music to provide an alternate choral professional development experience for our members in late July or early August. This will likely take the form of shorter regional workshops, virtual sessions, or some combination of the two. More information will be released as it becomes available.

As we work through this difficult period of quarantine and isolation, it is my prayer that we all emerge safely from it with a renewed appreciation for the importance of our personal and professional relationships. During this time, I am reminded of how much richer my life is because of my wonderful colleagues, and I give thanks for each of you!

“And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

Jason Locker, President
Florida Vocal Association