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After reading Don Trott's article about choral performances in the White House, I wondered what presidential commentary about choral music might be found, and what might be solicited from residents of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. I sent Trott's article to them in hope that there might be some replies. Mike Kelleher, President Obama's director of presidential correspondence, replied that because of the demands on his time, he was not able to comment. Time magazine reports that the President makes Evergreen Chapel, the nondenominational church at Camp David, his primary place of worship. "The 150-seat Evergreen Chapel attracts a congregation of between 50 and 70 people most Sundays," and there is a choir.1
President Obama sent a message to the 2010 World Choir Games in Shaoxing, China:
Music "brings us together, helping us reflect upon who we are, where we have come from, and what lies ahead." The Arts and Music transcend "languages, cultures, and borders." In the World Choir Games, musicians came together "to exchange ideas and styles and share in the artistic vibrancy born from diverse experiences and traditions. Their sounds have stirred countless audiences and fostered a deep appreciation for music that connects us all. Please accept my best wishes as you lift up your voices in song."2
The ACDA Web site has a message from the President about the significance of music:
President Obama had this to say about the arts in a White House Proclamation at the start of National Arts and Humanities Month: 'Millions of Americans earn a living in the arts and humanities, and the non-profit and for-profit arts industries are important parts of both our cultural heritage and our economy.... We must recognize the contributions of the arts and humanities not only by supporting the artists of today, but also by giving opportunities to the creative thinkers of tomorrow. Educators across our country are opening young minds, fostering innovation, and developing imaginations through arts education.'3
Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter were ardent supporters of the musical arts. They greatly appreciated the work of Robert Shaw and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, which played at President Carter's inauguration, and the President appointed Shaw to the National Council on the Arts. Shaw's appreciation was evident:
In Atlanta, during his days as governor,...