College Of Charleston: Choral Scholarship Creates Community Through Music

Press release from College of Charleston:

July 21, 2021

Music is a shared experience – one that brings life to our greatest joys and comfort to our deepest sorrows. It gives us a space to be our truest selves and connect with others who also have a song in their heart.

That ethos is exactly why the Charleston Mens Chorus exists. Founded in 1990 as a volunteer group, the chorus offers a community for male singers to sing with. Out of the group’s love for music has grown a desire to help younger singers follow that same passion.

That’s why the organization funds annual scholarships for two male College of Charleston choral students who are focusing their studies in vocal performance or choral conducting.

“It is a huge part of our mission to foster music education for male singers,” says Charleston Mens Chorus President Joe Brockington. “We also want to develop more singers for the next generation to continue the tradition of the men’s chorus.”

Which is why, in addition to getting financial support, recipients of the Charleston Mens Chorus scholarships are invited to be members of the ensemble. It’s an opportunity that offers the students mentorship from older members established in their careers and provides new vocal talent to the chorus.

“The students help fill out our sound and voice,” says Brockington. “Often our younger singers are our best singers. The fact that they’re voice majors at the college level puts them ahead of most of our members who sing as a hobby.”

This press release was produced by College of Charleston. The views expressed here are the author’s own.