Lake of Stars

From Passion to Performance: The Impact of Supporting Choral Innovations

As a longtime choir singer, I began following virtual choir projects during the pandemic and noticed a number of composers and poets requesting support for their projects via GoFundMe, patreon.com, and other means. Before this, I didn’t realize how many projects were awaiting passionate individuals to contribute to their development, and I was saddened to see projects miss the opportunity to move forward due to lack of support. Choral singing has been a beloved pastime of mine since my childhood, and I am motivated to support projects that speak to me in unique ways, that seem to fill a space or void in existing repertoire, or that are promoted by composers or musicians I know and admire.

When you support the development of a new piece, often the artist will provide updates on the project at critical milestones which affords a unique view of the creative process and evolution of a new piece of music. Having a window into the soul of the composer is an extraordinary opportunity! To see and hear the final result, then to experience the performance of the newly created work, is particularly profound – a new piece of art given life for all to enjoy.

Kirsten Goulde

Marti & Howard’s Testimonial for Santiago Veros

My husband Howard and I are absolutely thrilled and blessed to be patrons and friends of Santiago Veros, a brilliant composer of choral and orchestral music. As a lifelong choir enthusiast, I’ve participated in many projects, including those by Eric Whitacre. It was through these experiences that several friends and I discovered Santiago’s captivating compositions of him.

Santiago’s music is not only amazing and impeccably crafted but also a testament to his bravery and determination to produce the finest works possible. Each piece he composes—whether through commissions or the innovative consortium model, which allows choirs to co-create—is designed with a profound purpose: to enlighten, comfort, uplift, and bring joy to all who listen and, most importantly, to those who sings them. While some of Santiago’s pieces can be challenging, they remain accessible and singable for singers of all levels and types of choirs. I may not consider myself a “great” singer, but singing his works touches my soul and fills me with bravery and hope.

Supporting an artist like Santiago feels incredible—not just financially, but also by sharing his works and supporting him in any way we can. It’s a wonderful feeling to support an artist like Santiago. I am immensely proud of him for pursuing his passion, a reminder of the path I once set aside to focus on work and family.

Sincerely,
Marti and Howard