When I joined the Boston Children’s Chorus (BCC), I was originally just looking for something to do after school; I had always enjoyed singing and was interested in being in a chorus. But after five years with BCC, it has become so much more than an after-school activity for me. The Boston Children’s Chorus is a multi-racial, multi-ethnic arts education organization that purposefully unites kids ages 7–18 across differences of race, religion and economic status.
BCC’s mission is to harness the power and joy of music as a catalyst to unite Boston’s diverse communities and inspire social change. With nine choirs and over 300 singers, the organization reaches countless audiences annually through performances locally, nationally, and internationally. Being in BCC has given me opportunities I would have never had otherwise.
When I joined as a shy 11-year-old, I didn’t know anyone else in the group and was inexperienced with music theory. After five years with the choir, not only have I grown tremendously as a musician, but I’ve also gained exposure to various cultures and made incredible friendships that will last forever. Being in BCC has given me amazing performance opportunities, notably singing with the Boston Pops at the Esplanade on the Fourth of July in 2007 and touring the Kingdom of Jordan this past summer for 11 days, during which I was able to play a role in fostering cross cultural understanding between the U.S. and Jordan.
BCC has also helped me to develop as a leader. Through BCC’s mentor program, I work with younger singers by assisting in their rehearsals and helping teach them music theory, while getting to know them and acting as a role model. Singing with BCC has transformed me from a shy, naïve girl to a confident young adult, passionate about making a change for the better in my community.
I think that participating in activities outside of school is something that every teen should try to do. Through doing so, you are putting yourself in a good position to gain new skills, broaden your horizons, learn more about yourself, and meet new people that could become your best friends. All of these things have come true for me as a result of joining BCC, and I am so glad I did.
Registered TeenLife Boston members can learn more about the Boston Children's Chorus by visiting their online profile. If you are not a member, JOIN NOW.
Casey Accardi is a Junior at Wellesley High School who is interested in communications, social work, and psychology. She is co-president of the Premier Choir of the Boston Children's Chorus and music director of her school's female a cappella group, Ladies First.
Pictured Above: Wellesley High School Junior Casey Accardi (left) and friends on tour in Jordan with the Boston's Children's Chorus. --Photo courtesy of Casey Accardi
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When I joined the Boston Children’s Chorus (BCC), I was originally just looking for something to do after school; I had always enjoyed singing and was interested in being in a chorus. But after five years with BCC, it has become so much more than an after-school activity for me. The Boston Children’s Chorus is a multi-racial, multi-ethnic arts education organization that purposefully unites kids ages 7–18 across differences of race, religion and economic status.
