It's no secret that BCC's Class of 2020 is simply remarkable. In a year of transition, of unexpected change and loss, their commitment to community, understanding, and justice has remained steadfast. Whether you have been with BCC for 11 years or 8 months, we are honored to have shared this journey with you, and proudly cheer you on as you as your prepare for this next chapter.
As our outgoing seniors graduate, take a peek at what's next for some of this year's 34(!) graduating young artists, advice for younger singers, and their favorite BCC memories!
Allie Waterhouse
Allie Waterhouse has been a member of BCC for the past year and a half. She joined after one of her friends, who has been doing BCC for several years, encouraged her to audition. She started off in Choral Union and is now a member of Concert Choir. Her favorite performances include, "Can't Stop Singing That Song," "Still I Rise" and "She Persisted" Before BCC, she has done theater and choir in and out of school since she was in middle school. A rising freshman at Stonehill College, she hopes to study Special Education with a minor in Theater Arts. She hopes to continue performing in a choir while in college. When Allie is not performing, she enjoys drawing, doing digital photography, listening to music, playing the ukulele, and taking walks around Boston.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
One piece of advice is to be patient with yourself with your progress as a singer or an artist. Sometimes learning deices or mastering a skill such as sight-reading takes time to learn. Don't compare yourself to others who may seem "more talented." Everyone is progressing as a musician and singer at their own level and time. Also getting involved in outside programs such as the Studio at BCC will also help you develop as a performer and singer and it helps you get to know other people and other conductors within BCC.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
My favorite BCC memory is when I had the opportunity to perform at BCC's 17th Annual MLK concert, "Still I Rise. Everyone put in so much dedication, emotion, and effort into their performances, and seeing everyone honor Dr. Trecek-King was incredible. It was the most emotional performance I have ever done and I don't think I will ever forget it.
Arvind Pillai
When I joined Boston Children’s Chorus in 8th grade, my only experience with music was through playing the piano. I entered the Dorchester Intermediate choir as a timid singer, spending each rehearsal absorbing all I could from this new and unfamiliar environment. In those formative years, I learned a lot about the power that music can have in uniting people. I heard no individual voices when performing with peers, but instead only heard the crystalline harmony of a single voice that resulted from all of us putting our emotions together. This experience enamored me because it was completely different from everything I had ever done.
My love for BCC truly blossomed when I had the opportunity to join the Young Men’s Ensemble in 10th grade. Here, I made amazing friends I will miss when I go off to college. The people in both YME and PC are reflections of the music we sing: incredibly passionate, outspoken, and bent on making a point. Although I was initially intimidated by some of them, they inspired me to work on my own voice, literally and figuratively. Thanks to lessons of solfege, voice matching, and tests of our collective resolve in the face of looming performances, my voice is only getting louder. I am glad to have been a part of this organization, and I have changed for the better because of it. I want to thank each and every singer and staff member - you have all made a positive impact on me, even if you don’t know it.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Do not be afraid of being judged by others. BCC is an encouraging community. People will clap for you when you put yourself out there and try something, no matter how good or bad it sounds.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
When we taught "Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Round" to the choirs in Tasmania during the Australia Tour.
Evelyn Reyes
BCC has been my oasis for 11 years. Every time I walk in the tensions that have built up over the course of the day seem to fall away and they are replaced with warmth. That warmth exists because we, singers and conductors working in tandem, commit to cultivating an environment that welcomes vulnerability and fosters acceptance. I could really go on and on about why being in a rehearsal room overflowing with music, love, and excitement is precious to me. All in all, BCC has played a large role in making me who I am. It has helped me find my voice, understand the importance of questioning, and introduced me to incredible people. Beyond making music, I have laughed, cried, schemed, partied, and debated with my peers. These are folks who I hope will be lifelong friends. Over time, BCC has challenged me in many ways, and each of those trials has instilled a greater sense of determination in me. I feel incredibly privileged to be a part of such an organization.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Ask questions! Ask all of the questions!
What is your favorite BCC memory?
Rockport Concert after party. No doubt.
Jazmine Stephens
Being a part of the Class of 2020 has been an experience for sure. I am committed to Lasell University, and I will be studying Early Childhood Education / Secondary Education. I joined BCC in September 2019. Even though my time with BCC doesn't even amount to a full year, in such a short time I grew a connection with the people there. I am blessed to have learned about BCC before my high school experience was over.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Make the most of your experience. BCC is like a family, no matter how long you've been there. Embrace the environment and make sure that everyone feels welcomed, the way you would want to feel welcomed.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
My two favorite BCC memories are when we sang Bridge over Troubled Water for TK during the MLK Concert, and when I got to sing on stage with Hugh Jackman at TD Gardens.
Julia Reinach
I am forever grateful for this organization. My 11-year journey with BCC began when I watched one of our MLK concerts on TV, immediately sparking my desire to join the amazing family that I saw on stage. 11 years later, I am graduating from this family, however, I know that I will never truly leave it. Through BCC, I have met some of my best friends, had some of the most rewarding, challenging, and life-changing experiences I could have asked for, made the most beautiful music I could imagine, and have learned from the best mentors and musicians. The staff, conductors, and singers at BCC have become my second family, and I can't quite imagine what my life will look like without going to rehearsals every week. Beyond the beautiful music, BCC has inspired me to take my passion for social justice and apply it wherever I go, which is why I am extremely excited to go to the University of Michigan next year studying public policy with a minor in law, justice, and social change. It is impossible to say goodbye to an organization that has changed my life in the profound ways that BCC has, however, I feel prepared for my future and extremely grateful for the time that I spent surrounded by this family. As TK always said, "beans beget beans", and I am more than ready to continue finding those beans and sharing my love of music and my desire to create positive changes with the world around me. Thank you for the beans, this place is forever my home!
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Take advantage of every opportunity you are given but don't take them for granted. BCC provides some of the most amazing experiences, so live them to their fullest, show up with a smile, and be willing to step outside of your comfort zone. And don't forget to find some beans 
What is your favorite BCC memory?
I have a lot of amazing BCC memories, but one that will always stick with me is from right after our performance on the stage at the Sydney Opera House. We always celebrated performances by singing "Hlonolofatsa," but this time, choirs from around the world started joining us. It ended up turning into a big singing party backstage, with jumping, screaming, some tears, and the most joyful and carefree music I have ever heard or made. Seeing the power of this song -that could unite choirs from around the globe and the joy that everyone expressed- always reminds me of how lucky I am to be a part of an organization that spreads love and happiness through music to other people. "Hlonolofatsa" has become one of the most meaningful songs to me through my 11 years and I am so grateful to have been able to sing it in the places that I have been.
Kristen Santillan
I can’t believe my time at Boston Children’s Chorus has come to an end. I joined BCC when I was just 10 years old and, wow, 8 years really flew by. It feels like it was yesterday when I walked into 111 Shawmut Ave (BCC’s old place) for my audition and sang “Happy Birthday” to TK who was the one that auditioned me. I remember walking in BCC’s building with my mom for my audition and taking the iconic slowest elevator in the world. The OGs know what I’m talking about, that elevator was a hassle you were honestly better off taking the stairs for a faster route.
At the start of my BCC journey I had no clue what I got myself into, the only thing I knew for sure was that I was here to learn how to sing and that was all to it. However, little did I know that throughout the course of time BCC was going to become like family, it was something I was going to look forward to going every week. There is nothing quite the feeling of euphoria and empowerment I get when my fellow chorus members and I harmonize. Partly it’s the bond from creating something so beautiful together, partly it’s the sense of accomplishment. Partly it’s the inspiration from seeing what is possible when you focus your passion and energy. All together it gives me such joy and energy that I can’t imagine life without it. I never imagined myself becoming so attached to an organization in my life as I have with BCC. BCC is more than just a chorus: its family, it’s my second home.
At BCC I’ve been giving amazing opportunities, made wonderful memories, made lifetime friendships, shared many laughs and tears, and most of all got to meet some of the most inspiring and heartwarming staff. Shout out to Momma Adams, Ms. Hieber, Ms. Lora, Ms. Howe, Ms. E, Mr. Pratt, and the legend himself TK. BCC has changed my life more than I can imagine. I used to struggle with putting myself out there. BCC made me become a much more extroverted person, it has given me that boost of confidence. It’s given me the courage to do things I’d never imagine myself doing. BCC has taught me the power music holds and to use it to make a difference in this world, to transmit empowerment and justice. The skills BCC taught me have enriched my life.
Although it breaks my heart having to leave BCC, I’m excited for what the future holds for me. This fall I will be attending Emmanuel College pursuing a major in Accounting and a minor in Music. I am beyond grateful to have been part of such an amazing and one of a kind organization. Thank you BCC for everything you’ve done; you've shaped me into who I am today. I will miss you. You’ll forever have a special place in my heart.
One last thing BIG SHOUT OUT to my class the one and only unforgettable 2020. We did it guys despite the rough events 2020 has thrown at us, WE DID IT!
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Enjoy every bit of BCC's rehearsals, concerts, trips.etc. Make the most of it that you can because times flies.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
My senior year in PC with TK; specifically Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum concert.
Liam Carvajal Janke
Hello! My name is Liam. I'm a senior, graduating from Watertown High School, in June. Next year, I will be a freshman at Bowdoin College, in Maine. In my high school years, I spent a lot of time making music. Apart from BCC, I was part of my high school's A Capella choir, concert choir, concert band, and jazz band, as well as the Massachusetts Youth Wind Ensemble, at NEC Prep (I play the trombone). I don't just like music though! I love spending time in the woods and especially paddling down rivers in my kayak. My time at BCC has gone by way too quickly. Although I'm sad to leave, I'm excited to use what I've learned at BCC about music, conversation, and social justice throughout my next four years in 'the pine tree state'!
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
A piece of advice that I'd give to a younger BCC singer is to dive deep into BCC's culture of openness and conversation. The kind of acceptance and support found at BCC is rare and so, so important. Don't be afraid to participate in the conversations we have at BCC and more importantly, don't be afraid to make yourself vulnerable in front of these people. It is a tremendous gift to be able to feel vulnerable among a group of people, and somehow, BCC nourishes that at every rehearsal.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
My favorite BCC memory isn't my happiest moment at BCC, or my most jaw-dropping experience, instead it is the most powerful thing I've ever been a part of in my life. After Dr. TK's final MLK performance, everyone congregated in the holding room to say thank you, and goodbye to him. When I say everyone, I mean it. There were BCC alums from every single PC/YME year ever. Before that moment, I appreciated what TK had been for me - a role model and an inspiration - but I hadn't realized everything that he is to all of these people. I realized that TK had made an impact on every person in that room. I realized that not only is he a role model, but he's also a lifesaver and a beacon of hope for many people in the BCC community. At that moment I felt a lot of love for everyone in that room, and I realized that as a BCC alumnus, I am part of something very rare, strong, and beautiful.
Limilson Tavares
This is my first and last year of BCC. While I'm sad my time at BCC has come to an end very quickly, I am proud to say I even experienced this past year with an amazing group of people. BCC also saved me from stopping music. A year ago when I auditioned, (dragged to BCC by alumni Leah Kazuko) I was not sure if it was the place for me..... then they started singing a piece for their tour and for a whole week I could not get BCC out of my mind and how good the tenor section was that day. To this day, I can still remember Nick Brink turning around and saying "so, when exactly will you be joining us?" and that is the welcoming environment that got me to come back in September. I do regret not being more dedicated to BCC from the jump but as soon as I was able too, BCC became a second home. Though I will miss the cookies on our Saturday captain's practices and grabbing Doughboys after rehearsal with some people from PC and YME, I am proud to say I will be continuing my music career at Millsaps College. I will be studying Government/politics and music while also completing a pre-law and a vocal performance certificate program. I never thought I would be going into music until a few months ago but I can't leave behind what BCC has taught me to love.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Step out of your comfort zone. Your experience at BCC is YOUR story so grab a pencil and start writing it.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
When practicing for the MLK repeat concert and I was singing the solo for "Oh, Freedom!" during rehearsal. I was very nervous to sing in front of a talented group like BCC for the first time, but it did not feel like I was singing it alone because of the support from the amazing people around me.
Lucas Brandão
I am incredibly lucky to have been a part of BCC for half of my life. Music has always been a big part of me, but I owe a lot of my experiences to BCC. When I was younger, after a few years of singing, I soon picked up piano and then trumpet. Different programs gave me great experiences for these instruments, but I never could have imagined what BCC has given me. The people, the friends, the experiences, and the places I’ve had the luxury of going are what have made BCC a home for me. Starting in the fall, I’ll be going to Berklee College of Music to further explore the music world, and learn more about myself and who I want to become in the process. Thank you to everybody. This family is irreplaceable.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
It isn’t always easy to put yourself out there, and it can take time to discover what you want to do and who you want to be. Put time and effort into what you are doing, and go for new opportunities because they won’t always be available. All this will make the journey ahead of you much more enjoyable.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
When I first joined Young Men's Ensemble, I was immediately welcomed with open arms. I was met with people that weren’t afraid to be themselves, and stories that would soon fuel my growth not just as a singer, but as a person.
Matt Walensky
My name is Matt Walensky and I am in Young Men's Ensemble (YME). Starting in Villa Victoria 11 years ago, I have had the most wonderful and inspiring journey through many choirs at BCC that landed me in YME. At BCC my eyes have been opened to countless different cultures in which I would have never known if I had not sung with the organization. BCC has taught me that even ourselves as young teenagers, we can have such an inspiring voice that can advocate and inspire change. At BCC, I have realized how influential media and music have been on all cultures in the world. As my final year at BCC comes to a close, BCC will be with me in my heart for the rest of my life. Next year, I will be studying Communications at the University of Southern California in order to be able to fight for social change through media and entertainment, the most influential medium in our modern time. Everything I do in the future I know I can thank BCC for.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
One piece of advice that I would give to a younger singer is to break free and sing out. By breaking free, it allowed me to fully understand the music and connect with it both in the rehearsal space and on stage. In addition, by now understanding the meaning behind the music, I was able to have deep and meaningful conversations about it with my peers, creating life long relationships.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
My favorite memory of BCC was in 2017 when PC/YME went on tour in London, UK. We had about 3 hours of free time and a group of us decided that we wanted the full London experience and rode the London Eye. A group of 11 of us, at the top of the Ferris wheel, then decided to sing one of our favorite songs, "Unclouded Day", for the other passengers, who loved it. It was so much fun singing in an unfamiliar place with my closest friends because we were all there to help support and comfort each other.
Mark Weitzman
Joining Young Men’s Ensemble with no prior choral experience was a challenge. My first rehearsal, I plopped myself down in my seat and was immediately confused as to why I was placed in this choir. All of the people around me were so much better than I was (at that point in time). But the staff took me under their wing, assisting me in coming out of my shell and expressing myself to the world. BCC was not only a learning experience artistically, but culturally as well. We learned pieces indigenous to all 6 continents that are not Antarctica, and I was introduced to cultures and issues I may have been completely unaware of otherwise. Next year, I will start studying Journalism at the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou, as the cool kids call it) so I can help bring more attention to the complex social issues I learned about during my time in Boston Children's Chorus.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Don't care what other people think. I know that particularly for young boys, there is a stigma around being invested in the arts and particularly music. You may be treated differently or singled out, especially if you're not in the sportsy crowd to begin with. But you should care more about who and what you are more than what other people think about who and what you are.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
After a very long (boring) rehearsal of one of the group pieces in London, we had a dance party of sorts with the other choirs that were at the festival.
Marisela Guity
My name is Marisela Guity. I am 17 years old and an Afro Latina, which I truly love. Music has always been a passion of mine; however, I have always been shy. I started out in Project Step, where I sang and played instruments such as the violin. I also played piano in my free time. From there I came to BCC in 2014 to continue singing. Sadly, I left because 2014 was a hard year for me as I was starting at a new school. I came back in 2019 in hopes to finish strong and to find that confidence that I needed in order to succeed musically. Believe it or not I actually cried at my audition out of frustration, very embarrassing. IN FRONT OF TK, A LEGEND. He was very comforting and reassuring though, so I got through it. Anyways, I was also recruited for a church choir, The Kingdom Builders, and this was also beneficial in helping me gain confidence. I was in Concert Choir this year and enjoyed my time there so much even though Premier Choir is the typical end goal. I love the pieces that we sang and the gigs we took on. Sadly, we were not able to perform at Rockport, but the rehearsals were very fun leading up to it. I also love how we grew together as a choir; we matured and began to blend very well towards the end. As I am off to college, I plan to continue my career in music as a minor for I will be majoring in Criminal Justice. Depending on where I go, I will join their choir and I can't wait to continue my musical journey and leave with even more knowledge. I just want to thank the staff and all the lovely faces of BCC. I will truly miss it, but I do look forward to coming back as a BCC alum!!
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
I truly regret leaving BCC. I started BCC in 2014 with Mr. Reynolds. I'm pretty sure I was in DI, but that isn't important. The piece of advice I would leave for you is to not give up!! Rehearsals were on Saturday mornings and 2014 was already a difficult transition for me academic wise so I fell off, but BCC is a wonderful program. If I had stayed, I know I would've created life long friendships and I would be further along in my career as a musician. I came back this year and was placed in CC. So I would say to the younger singers stay the course, and finish strong!!
What is your favorite BCC memory?
I have a lot of favorite BCC memories. But top three; Mr. Jacobs acting like a vsco girl, performing with Hugh Jackman and lastly, making Tik Toks with Quvenzhane Wallis.
Mila Contreras-Godfrey
I have never been the type of person who seeks risk-taking endeavors, enjoying the safety of the things I know. When my mom convinced to audition for BCC I remember, the nervousness and fear I felt trying something new. I was prepared to not like it. I was prepared to suffer through the year and then never return. But as time went on, I gained more confidence, I made more friends, and I began to feel comfortable. To feel at home. While I have not been at BCC for as long as many of my friends, over the past five years BCC has been like a home to me. I have made some of my closest friends and had some of the most formative experiences at BCC and that will never be forgotten. The music we’ve sung, the people we’ve sung, the tears and hugs and laughter we shared will never be lost. I have experienced family in another way and formed relationships that I hope last a lifetime. I have gained so much knowledge of not only of myself but of the world around me. I am grateful for all the experience BCC has provided me with to help me become who I am today. Next year, I will be studying at Boston College!
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Don't let fear stop you and follow your passions!
What is your favorite BCC memory?
Tour in Australia last year!
Pierre Zachary Belizaire
Hello, my name is Pierre Zachary Belizaire. I am 18 years old. I grew up in a traditional Haitian household in Mattapan. I joined Boston Children's Chorus (BCC) at the age of 7 years old. I started my first season in Dorchester House Training (DHT). BCC became a second home for my family and I. During my time here, I traveled to two countries, performed in four Martin Luther King Tribute concerts and had over hundreds of rehearsals. When I initially came to BCC in 2009, I was not fond of it because I was the only male in my choir. I was timid and didn't talk to anyone-- I felt like the odd one out. But as the years went on, I grew to love it. As I moved up to the upper choirs, I finally became a part of the Young Men's Ensemble that I've always looked up to for years. I could confidently say that I found a strong sense of friendship and community amongst my peers. Through my 11 years at BCC, the lessons that I've learned from my fellow singers, conductors, and alumni have deeply impacted me as the young man I am today. I will take these lessons with me to the next chapters of my life as I attend Wentworth Institute of Technology, majoring in Industrial Design in the Fall of 2020. “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” ― Phillis Wheatley
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
My advice to the younger singers would be, make as many friends as possible because you'll be surprised by what you'll learn from them. Take advantage of every opportunity BCC offers; you may never get that chance again! Lastly, don't doubt yourself if you get stuck and don't be afraid to ask for help; someone will always be there for you, never give up, there's always a light at the end of the tunnel.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
One of my favorite memories is when we were on tour in London, after an exciting stage performance, we went backstage to the dressing room, and we all started singing and dancing for no particular reason. The other international choirs joined in our boisterous impromptu party. It was so fun and enticing that our conductors joined in and danced with us too.
Ryan Browne
Ryan has been with Boston Children's Chorus since he was only in fourth grade! BCC has been his happy place every single one of those years, and he can't believe that the BCC chapter of life is closing. Ryan will be going to Keene State College to study Music Education, with hopes of one day becoming a conductor or music teacher. Who knows, maybe one day you'll see him back at BCC! Big shout-out to every one of his conductors! Thank you, Ms. I, Mrs. Adams, Mr. Reynolds, Ms. Howe, Mr. Jacobs, and Dr. TK! Also, lots of thanks to all of the teaching fellows and assistant conductors I've had! Thank you, Ms. Dominguez, Ms. Lora, Mr. DeHart, Mr. Viani, Ms. Havelin, Mr. Pratt, and Ms. E! All of you have taught me so many valuable lessons. Ryan owes much of his musical career to his family, especially his parents, who have supported him every step of the way. He truly hopes that one day he'll be half the person both his mom and dad are. "Thank you, Dad, for showing me that it is possibly to live your dream and do what you love. Thank you, Mom, for always being a shoulder to cry on and for showing me that new opportunities are always on the horizon.”
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Always reach for your dreams. If you see an opportunity, take it. Better to plant a seed and see if it grows than not do anything. A wise man once said "Beans beget beans." Also, treasure your friendships. Who knows when you'll have an opportunity to make such good friends again.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
My favorite memory is singing the solo in "Don't Be Afraid" at MLK this year. It was my first solo in a song and I'm so happy it got to be at such an important concert. Always remember "Shine all your light. Don't let anybody make you feel small. Don't be afraid."
Rory Golden
Being part of BCC is such a powerful, invigorating, and personally-affecting experience, and I am thankful I got to be a part of it. I have made dear friends and developed musically in ways I never thought possible. Joining as a timid freshman, I only meant for it to be a casual hobby of mine, but I was blindsided by both the talent present in the organization as well as the strong, inclusive, and empowering community BCC is home to. Through thick and thin, the community has supported each other in a deeply profound and impactful way - when people talk about the idea of “found family,” I believe this is what they mean. I forever will remember the way my peers and teachers have impacted me, both musically and personally, as I move on towards new things.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Just keep singing - you are better than you think you are.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
It seems like an obvious choice, but the 2020 MLK performance was so impactful and special for me, and it was unlike anything I have ever experienced before.
Sami Stickney
I started BCC because of a few friends who encouraged me to join. I found more friends throughout the years, connections I didn't even know could exist, helping become who I am today with so many amazing adventures in between. You know who you are, I love you guys so much. <3 ��
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Finding your voice is a true power of BCC. Not only will you find your musical voice, but pay attention to what your singing because on stage you can feel your power and what you can bring to the world, but only if you bring emotion with you. Once you feel that on stage don't ever let the confidence go. You brought it to the stage so you can carry it anywhere. But remember that having confidence is different than having a big ego. Stay humble and remember your choir mates should feel like a chain, if you're not linked together, it just doesn't work. There are so many warm hearts at BCC, that's what you grow from.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
Every single one of our hype backstage moments. (In Training choir, CU& CC) and 2016 retreat, when no one from CU could stop laughing. xD
Savannah Rivers
My journey with BCC started when I was a very shy girl that had an interest in music/singing and my parents thought it would be a good way to expose me to more music. I was in elementary school when I first joined and was placed into the Dorchester Intermediate training choir. I was very scared to join, but it ended up being one of the best decisions I ever made. I didn't even care that I had to wake up early on a Saturday morning, lol. Over the years, BCC has not only taught me how to use music as a tool to inspire social change, but it taught me how to silence the inner narrative that I've had about myself saying that "I'm not good enough". Never in a million years, did I think that I would be chosen to sing the solo for True Colors at Symphony Hall alongside alumni and current singers, it was an absolute dream. Without BCC I would not have never discovered that having a career in music is very possible. I am very excited to attend the California Institute of the Arts and study songwriting, performance, and music business in the fall. I am eternally grateful for the time that I've had with BCC, I have made lifelong friends, and I am proud to call this place my second home, my only regret is not joining earlier!
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
My biggest piece of advice is to self advocate and put yourself out there! Even if you're not an outspoken person, I truly believe that some of the best experiences are spontaneous and voice/ opinion is just as valid as everyone else's. BCC is full of opportunities to spontaneously try out for a solo, or be resourceful.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
Concert Choir Tour 2018
Shantel Teixeira
To say that BCC has influenced both my journey as an established musician and my passion for the performing arts is merely an understatement. I can undoubtedly say that BCC is one of the biggest reasons why I am the musical artist I am today and seek to carry the art of music with me beyond BCC. I joined this organization 11 years ago, not knowing that the collection of people and experiences that would present themselves before me would determine my entire purpose in life. I fully believe that both my perception of music as I see it today and the mission, I’ve bestowed upon myself as a creator of such would not exist without the social and cultural exposure that BCC has provided me over the years. I have yet to discover a place where music so effortlessly lifts itself off the page and finds its way to the heart in the way that BCC succeeds in doing so; and after 11 years, I’ve come to the conclusion that simply no such place exists. It is within the arms of my second home that I was exposed to the multifaceted power of music and its ability to diminish the contrast between our differences and, rather, use them to build bridges. It is through the countless conversations of bringing to light the stories of minority groups that I was able to dive into the complexities of my own identity and find myself through my own country’s music. It was being guided by people who both believed in me and looked like me that allowed me to realize my own potential and capabilities of leaving my mark in the music industry. Starting this fall, I’ll be attending Berklee College of Music, studying Music Business/Management, and bringing my perspective as both a committed member of the Cape Verdean-American community and a voice dedicated to enhancing social change in the industry. Thank you to all the adults and dear friends at BCC for being my rock for the past 11 years and providing the foundation upon which I was able to build myself.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
It’s never too early to start dreaming and putting those dreams into fruition. Looking back on my whole journey thus far as a young musician and artist, I wish I knew how endless the possibilities were, even for young people. Apart from BCC, there are so many opportunities for young musicians to put themselves out there and develop their musical skills. I had so many opportunities to display my talents from a young age but didn’t really start taking advantage of them nor take music seriously until after I mustered up the confidence to do so when I was older. For example, there’s a summer program that the Berklee College of Music offers in which participants can be as young as 14 years old. Although I knew of this program for a while, I didn’t end up applying until my junior year due to the lack of confidence I had in my abilities; I can only imagine where I would be with my musicianship now had I immersed myself in this program at a younger age! Opportunities like this will not only develop your skills from an early age but also provide an insightful sneak peek into the music industry early on. Another reason why these opportunities to stretch yourself as an artist as early as possible are important is the fact that you simply never know who’s watching you. In my experience, one opportunity almost always leads to another one and can really bring you to places you couldn’t have even imagined in the beginning. To my budding musicians: in this life, you can’t rely on the world to hand you a map of how to get to the right answers. However, that being said, the answers have become so much easier to find in this day and age, now more than ever–take advantage of all the resources you have and never take “no” for an answer.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
It’s so hard to take 11 years that seemed to fly by in just seconds and boil it down into one favorite memory but the first that came to mind was the first time I sang on stage with Premier Choir while I was in Concert Choir at the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. concert. I had a small solo at the end of the piece “Kaleidoscope Heart” and I was so incredibly nervous because it was my first time singing with Premier Choir, whom I had looked up to all my years in BCC (who doesn’t?!). However, once I rehearsed for the first time with them on stage, I felt as though every single one of them was cheering me on. Despite singing multiple wrong versions of the solo before landing on the right one, TK and the rest of the choir were so patient, and I felt so much love pouring from the choir for me, a mere CC child in their eyes. During the actual performance, listening to the breathtaking harmonies and experiencing this intimate moment on stage with one of the PC members (shoutout to Maddie!) was so special; even though we barely knew each other, we allowed the music to connect us as one and transmit the power of love and togetherness to the audience–one of the rarest things on earth that BCC fosters. Even during our most recent MLK performance, while I did not know many of the alumni on a personal level, we comforted one another and stood tall with one another. Despite our various backgrounds and experiences, we found our common ground through music with a kind of ease I’ve never seen anywhere else. Seeing that same PC member again at my final MLK concert felt like a full circle–and I can’t wait to create more of these moments with those who have yet to experience the unifying and healing power of music.
Soledad Dolorico-Francoeur
I grew up in BCC, and considered it my real home and family for the 10 years I had the privilege of being in the organization. BCC taught me everything I know about community, friendship, artistry, and social justice. I had the joy of touring in Australia the summer of the 2018-19 season, and performing in an international festival alongside choirs from all around the world. BCC taught me how to raise my voice as a young, biracial woman in America, and to stay true to my roots.
I grew up idolizing our former President and Artistic Director, Dr. Anthony Trecek-King (aka "TK"), whom I had the honor of being conducted by in Premier Choir. He was not only the heart and soul of BCC's mission for 13 years, but to me, also a friend and second father figure. We all call him "Choir Dad" for a reason. He taught me and countless other singers to never take a single opportunity that presents itself to you for granted, no matter how big or small it seems, because "beans beget beans."
I walked into my first training choir rehearsal a timid, shaky, little 7-year-old. Today, 10 years later, I'm more than proud to look toward my future at the music school of Wagner College, where I will be majoring in vocal performance. I express endless gratitude for my family, all of my past conductors, and my brothers and sisters in PC/YME. Thank you, BCC; thank you, TK.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Art and artists will change the world. Us, at BCC, we are artists. Never give up on using music and your art to advocate for social justice, and NEVER back down from the fighting the fight. Gen Z holds the fate of the world in our very hands. Through BCC, I've had the privileges of touring internationally and working with choirs from all over the world. (Not to mention hugging Hugh Jackman in front of a live audience, wink wink.) I've experienced firsthand how music truly is the universal language; it will be our salvation, but only if we work for it. Live by what Dr. Anthony Trecek-King always reminded us of, that "beans beget beans!"
What is your favorite BCC memory?
When current PC/YME and alum singers sang "Stand Up" at this past MLK concert. We will never forget the legacy of Dr. Anthony Treck-King, and how he shaped the mission of BCC for the 14 seasons he led the organization.
Sonya Poznansky
BCC has been an incredible source of joy for me over the past 11 years. My love for BCC has certainly blossomed throughout my time in the organization, from being a small relatively uninterested 7-year-old to the passionate young adult I am today. I will never forget the kindness and support my conductors and mentors have shown me over the years, and know that the spirit of BCC will forever be in my heart. BCC has made me a more empathic, open-minded person, and has introduced me to people and perspectives I am so incredibly fortunate to have been able to get to know. I love the BCC seniors of 2020, and am so proud of all the hard work they've done to get here and cannot even imagine how impressive their feats will be in the future. Thank you all 100x.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Don't ever take any of what the BCC community has to offer for granted. Make the most of every opportunity, and be grateful for every small thing along the way. Always remember to say thank you to those who go out of their way to help you, and try to pass on the love whenever you can.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
The ISGM concerts. An incredible performance in an incredible space with incredible people. We fill that 4-floor sonic cube with such moving energy every time.
Zoe Tekeian
I am one of this year’s four co-presidents (special thanks to Mark, Evelyn, and Matt, who have been incredible despite challenging circumstances). I will be attending the University of Virginia with the intention of continuing on to medical school. I will also be joining UVA’s rowing team, where I hope to use the leadership, I learned at BCC to help my teammates achieve our collective goals. I have had incredible mentors over my time with BCC; thank you to Ms. Adams, Dr. TK, and many others. I may be leaving BCC, but I will forever be the person that this organization has shaped me to be.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger singers?
Never be afraid to push back if you think something isn’t right. BCC will give you the platform — learn to use your voice. There is nothing more crucial than advocacy, especially now.
What is your favorite BCC memory?
My favorite BCC memory is standing on stage at Boston Symphony Hall conducting at this year’s MLK. We had all worked our hardest to learn and practice “Bridge Over Troubled Water” as our thanks to Dr. TK. The feeling of putting together a piece with so much love and dedication is truly irreplaceable, and to do it with such an incredible group is a memory I will cherish forever.
