The Art of Music
DIRECTORS: James Pecar
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE: Grades 3—12
PERFORMANCES: Winter and spring concerts held on the Main Stage at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts
REGISTRATION FEE: $250
Experience the joy of music-making in a county-wide choral program. The intent of the Macomb Youth Chorus is to enhance and expand upon the musical opportunities that the children receive in their school and church choirs by providing additional instruction and experiences.
Rehearsals emphasize the development of musicianship and vocal technique. The singers of the Macomb Youth Chorus develop musical artistry, poise, confidence, discipline and an understanding and love of the art of music.
Weekly Rehearsals
Center Campus, L Building (Enter under the blue awning next to the Macomb Center)
View Semester Schedule
Jr. Choir Grades 3-5: Thursday, 6-7pm
Sr. Choir Grades 6-12: Thursday, 7:15-8:45pm
Contact Us:
586.286.2044 | ArtsEducation@macomb.edu
James Pecar, Director
James Pecar is the Director of Choirs at Chippewa Valley High School (CVHS) and is both the producer and vocal director for the CVHS Musical Productions. James holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Stetson University and a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Michigan State University. At CVHS James directs several curricular choirs, teaches music theory and aural training, and leads a music performance seminar. Additionally, he directs and/or oversees numerous extracurricular ensembles, including A Cappella groups and award-winning quartets. During his time at Chippewa, his ensembles have been selected to perform at such prestigious events as the Michigan Youth Arts Festival and the Michigan Music Conference. Ensembles under his direction have also been selected to perform with professional groups, such as The King’s Singers (England), The Real Group (Sweden), and several college ensembles. James has received several awards for his work of using choral music to build support and awareness for the autism community. He has been named Michigan Lottery Teacher of the Week and was also named the Hour Detroit “Best of Detroit 2022” Teacher of the Year. He has also sung with the Grammy Award winning University Music Society – Choral Union and is on their Grammy nominated recording of L’Orestie d’Eschyle – The Oresteia of Aeschylus. James has extensive experience as a chorusmaster, vocal director, and producer in corporate theatre and both operatic and musical theatre stage productions. He is a sought-after clinician for choirs ranging from children’s choirs through professional adult ensembles. He was selected to direct the 2015 Michigan Music Educator Association Elementary Honors Choir. James is thankful for the opportunity to work with the staff, parents, and young artists of the Macomb Youth Chorus program.