By Stephanie Crawford, Macaroni KID Dorchester, May 15, 2022
https://dorchester.macaronikid.com/articles/628179b5fffc626f1a95ef23/have-you-tried-singing
This month I was introduced to the Boston City Singers program as they are working to rebuild after struggles due to the pandemic. I connected with Melissa Graham, the managing director and asked her to tell me more about what makes Boston City Singers so special.
As a creative youth development non-profit, Melissa let me know that they are committed to equal access and social justice. The Boston City Singers mission is to provide the highest level of musical training and wide-ranging performance opportunities to those between the ages of 4 and 18. In addition to this, they inspire personal development, celebrate diversity, and foster goodwill. The program vision is to transform the lives of inner-city young people one voice at a time, developing each heart to live with compassion in a world of differences.
When asked the question, “Why sing?”, Melissa let me know that singing encourages listening and teamwork. Singing class can help children learn to take instruction, develop self confidence and improve memory. Another benefit to singing is the relief of stress and anxiety, managing emotional pain and building lung control.
Hearing about the benefits of singing was enough to want my son to be involved in a singing program when he is of age! The last question I had for Melissa was, “Why should someone join Boston City Singers?” She let me know that Boston City Singers students have fun! They learn new dance moves, make new friends, learn to read music , sing all over the world and use their voices to lead change and make a difference in the community.
So, if you are looking for a new way to engage your child, consider singing. The benefits seem endless!