Behind the Blazer

Interviews with three members of the chorale on the experience of being an adult singing with a boys choir.

Alumnus Justin Walker recounts how the Philadelphia Boys Choir and Chorale helped him blossom as a person and gain confidence. He describes forming meaningful relationships, his new pursuit and gives advice to those considering joining the PBCC.

Voice teacher Michael Ashby, from the Philadelphia Vocal Conservatory, describes his role with the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale and how it has blossomed over time. He explains what motivates him as a voice teacher, why the PBCC is unique and his strategy for guiding young singers through voice changes. Michael Ashby also shares one of his proudest moments as a voice teacher.

Bass-baritone opera singer Justin Hopkins shares stories from his extended time in the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale. He joins us via Zoom while in quarantine in Belgium. Justin describes how the PBCC prepared him for his world travels, an important lesson he learned from a big mistake and gives advice to those looking to follow his career path.

Episode 8 - Dr. Robert G. Hamilton (PBCC founder) - Dr. Hamilton describes how he began the choir, why he started touring, and how he had to plan tours before the internet age.

Episode 7 - Dante DiMaio (fourth year performing chorister) - Thirteen year-old Dante has been part of the PBCC for 6 years. He sees the training and culture as very influential for his other professional musical experiences. He also describes some of his experiences on tour.

Episode 6 - Val Starr (dean of students, Academy of Vocal Arts) - Ms. Starr, a parent of two PBCC alumni, shares how the AVA has incorporated PBCC members in their opera performances. She also remembers her sons’ time in the choir and how the lessons they learned have helped develop them into the men they are today.

Episode 5 - Rege McAden (music teacher) - Ms. McAden, a long-time Pennsylvania music teacher, describes how she has helped over 100 boys join the PBCC and shares her most powerful memory of the organization.

Episode 4 - Ukee Washington (original choir member) - CBS 3 anchor Ukee Washington reminisces about his time in the PBCC over 50 years ago. He describes how his boyhood experiences in the choir still impact him today.

Episode 3 - Melissa Shanahan West (backstage helper) - Having two sons involved in the PBCC, Melissa hit the ground running. She has served as a stage parent for seven years and discusses how the organization has impacted her life and her sons.