Lauda

NEURO-DIVERSE ENSEMBLE

Lauda, a word which means “to praise”, is an ensemble within the Shallaway Youth Choir community. Envisioned to embrace diversity and inclusion and to challenge norms and practices around music-making, Lauda provides an enriching musical experience in a safe, neuro-diverse environment. Co-led by choral music specialist, Jennifer Hart, and music therapist, Leanne Kearsey, with accompanist, Jenny Griffioen, and a dedicated team of volunteers, Lauda strives to create a kind, caring environment where everyone is supported to be their best self.  

Lauda enjoys a full performance season as part of Shallaway. Additionally, in 2018, Lauda was featured guest of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists national conference and at “Resonate”, the Newfoundland and Labrador Teacher’s Association music special interest council conference. In 2019, Lauda performed at Mount Pearl’s Frosty Festival and as special guests at Shelley Neville’s “O Holy Night”. In January 2020, Lauda embarked on a new musical theatre project with writer/director, Kyle McDavid, “Sidewalk Dandelion”. Inspired by the choristers themselves and crafted with their input at every step, “Sidewalk Dandelion” is an inspiring story of diversity, inclusion and acceptance. A global pandemic couldn't dampen the enthusiasm of the group and, in July 2022, “Sidewalk Dandelion” debuted on the Arts and Culture Centre stage in St. John’s to rave reviews, the story having powerfully resonated with audiences with its wit, charm, humor as well as its important message.