Sing Democracy 250—All America Program
Program Details
Sing Democracy 250 is a national initiative designed to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026 through music. This project’s goals are to engage singers and citizens, educate them about America’s history, equip them with knowledge of their responsibilities as citizens, and empower them to renew American democracy, in the context of America’s 250th birthday.
Through the Sing Democracy 250—All America Program, we invited choirs across the United States to participate in this national commemoration of America’s 250th birthday by organizing their own Sing Democracy 250 performance between March 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026. Upon registration, participating ensembles received free copies of the newly commissioned pieces (“Redeem the Dream” & “US”), enabling communities everywhere to hear these unique works and participate in America’s 250th anniversary.
Participation Overview
America has responded! In this call for civic engagement through song, choirs from across the country, of all sizes, traditions, and backgrounds, are participating. The Sing Democracy 250 program has been performed in communities large and small across this country, sharing this musical call to celebrate America's democratic ideals and to renew democracy for the next 250 years. Performances continue through the end of 2026.
Sing Democracy 250 - 2026
Total Performances
States Represented
Participating Choirs
Participating Singers
Total Audience (est.)
46
25
96
2,705
14,000+
Impact
Audience and Musician Responses
Many singers and audience members have reached out to share their thoughts about Sing Democracy 250. Here are just a few comments about how this music affected them:
“This was such a powerful and impactful event, and I’m grateful we had the opportunity to be part of it. What stood out most was the sense of unity. Bringing together a diverse group of people with different perspectives to engage with the ideals of our nation felt both timely and necessary. These are aspirations that are still unfolding, and continuing to strive toward them is part of what defines us.”
“The music reminded us that we are still a democracy and hope to keep our freedom.”
“There was something incredibly powerful about hearing so many voices come together with a shared message. It wasn’t just beautiful—it was meaningful. I walked away feeling energized and inspired. It lit a fire in me to think more intentionally about how I show up, how I lead, and how I contribute to something bigger than myself. Experiences like this are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together. Thank you for creating such a memorable experience. Our family left with tears of joy and hope!”
"Performing the Sing Democracy 250 program was an incredible experience. It was eye opening to be able to get to know people from around the country, all at different stages of their lives, but be able to come together over the music we were performing. I learned so much from these people and had an amazing time making music with them. It was crazy to think that we were able to create such great sounding music in such a short time. It was also amazing to perform on the Lincoln Center stage, to celebrate the 250th birthday of America, in front of family and friends. Performing Sing Democracy 250 is an amazing experience that I will never forget."
Can music really make any difference?
Here’s one answer from American historian Jon Meacham: “Given the current state of the nation, can music play any role in smoothing out the sharp edges of our disagreements and easing the tensions of tribalism? History suggests it can.
“If we can hear and feel how the other guys hear and feel, we’re better equipped to press on toward a more perfect union. For the song of America is not finished; the last notes have not yet been played. In that spirit, in that cause, now and always, let us lift every voice, and sing.”
Sing Democracy 250 is making a difference.