It is only when we take music seriously, that we can demand to be taken seriously. Nothing is more important for a leader than to set positive and good examples. This applies to work with all ages, but not least to those that are leaders to the growing generation.

I’m convinced that practicing cooperation and to have respect for each other’s differences, to show solidarity and loyalty, is the most important for tomorrow’s society if we are to live in peace with each other.

The best preparation one could have in life from birth is to sing with others and to develop the possibilities of this singing.

I have had good experiences from letting a pupil improvise, sing clusters and so on – she becomes unafraid when reading traditional music. The old music is helped by the new music, and the new music cannot make it without the old. In a cluster (where everyone sings the right note!) self-confidence is built.

In the same way that you have human rights with the way you look, you have the same right to sound the way you do with your voice – you are unique!

This is where we can encourage boldness and give the chorister confidence to trust themselves and therefore sing with the right attitude. 50% sing with half a voice because they are afraid of the sheet music and all the academic tradition that choir leaders have created in an authoritarian way through the times.

The voice is an important part of a person’s identity. Don’t forget that you are unique. There is only one like you in the whole world!