Press Release

Press Contact: Hannah Grasso
hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org
(302) 543-8657 x4

THE CHOIR SCHOOL OF DELAWARE PRESENTS THE ADDAMS FAMILY, A NEW MUSICAL COMEDY, JULY 27 & 28, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (July 7, 2023): The Choir School of Delaware presents The Addams Family, a musical comedy, on July 27 & 28, 2023 at The Baby Grand in Wilmington, DE. This heartwarming musical embraces the wackiness in every family, and it is sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages. 

The show stars Wilmington youth, ages 11-18. It is the culminating show of the Choir School of Delaware’s Musical Theater Summer Camp, which connects Delaware kids to five weeks of exceptional musical theater training and academic support, all tuition-free.

Past Choir School musicals received rave reviews from audience members. An attendee at Once on This Island (2022) said: “The production was so amazing and well done! Having been to several Broadway performances, this was top tier and I was loving every minute!” This show will be no exception. Malcolm Richardson, Musical Director, says: “The talent among our young performing artists is truly astounding. Their passion for this musical shines through both on the stage and off. We are only two weeks into rehearsals so far, but it’s already clear that the show is going to be nonstop fun at a very high caliber.”

A core theme of The Addams Family is that we are all stronger when we celebrate and embrace our differences. Sophia DiLeo, Artistic Director, says: “This message resonates with all of us at camp. As most of our students are Black, they relate to this message through the context of being members of a historically marginalized community. It is a poignant part of the lived human experience to be simultaneously self-conscious and proud of the things that make us unique. Instead of shying away from otherness, the Addamses celebrate it.”

Among the performing artists are participants in the Choir School’s Young Artist Program (YAP), a course for working age students that prepares them for success in careers as music industry professionals.YAP participants enjoy an immersive production experience, including master classes, personal coachings, audition skills, songwriting, and more. Comparable YAPs cost participants hundreds or thousands of dollars. Our YAP is tuition-free, and YAP students were offered the chance to earn a wage for their participation. This eliminates a key barrier to access for talented students from lower-income communities. The YAP is funded through the Delaware Division of the Arts and through partnerships with the City of Wilmington and New Castle County.

On the YAP, DiLeo comments: “It has been an honor to get to know the brilliant Young Artists! They all hold much more power than they realize and will certainly take this world by storm!”

Tickets are on sale now via The Grand Opera House. To purchase, call 302-652-5577 or visit thegrandwilmington.org. Advance purchase is recommended as past productions have sold out.

Show Synopsis

In the kooky world of the Addams family, to be sad is to be happy, to feel pain is to feel joy, and death and suffering are the stuff of dreams.  Nonetheless, this quirky family still faces the same challenges as any other family, including the spookiest nightmare of all: the Addams kids are growing up. Wednesday Addams has fallen in love with a young man from a “normal” family– a man her parents have never met. Everything will change on the fateful night the Addams family hosts a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents. In one hilarious night, secrets are disclosed, relationships are tested, and the Addams family must face up to the one horrible thing they’ve managed to avoid for generations: change.

The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy

When: Thursday, July 27, 2023, 7:30pm

Friday, July 28, 2023, 7:30pm

Where:  The Baby Grand, 818 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801

Runtime: 2.5 hours including a 15-minute intermission

Tickets: $19.99

Buy Tickets:  thegrandwilmington.org or 302-652-5577

Press RSVP:  hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org or 302-543-8657 x4

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About the Choir School of Delaware

The Choir School of Delaware, a “Community Center that Sings,” provides life-changing after-school and summer programs for Wilmington children ages 7-17 in an intergenerational environment. Programs combine professional-level choral training and performance opportunities with homework help, mentoring, and social services, creating a safe, inspiring environment where young people realize their full potential. An intergenerational choir anchors the after-school program and performs throughout the state. 

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To download the press release, click here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (May 24, 2023) – The Choir School of Delaware presents Lux Aeterna, a concert of choral music honoring the lives lost to the COVID-19 pandemic, at Grace United Methodist Church (Wilmington, DE) on Sunday, June 11, 2023 at 4:00pm. The program explores remembrance and renewal through song. 

The Choir School of Delaware is an acclaimed intergenerational choir where professional musicians, adult volunteers, and talented youth sing side-by-side. Lux Aeterna continues the Choir School’s tradition of presenting concerts that speak to the most pressing issues of our time.

Lux Aeterna by American composer Morten Lauridsen anchors the concert. Translated from Latin meaning “eternal light,” the masterwork’s five movements incorporate references to light from sacred texts. The texts honor the departed and console the living, who seek understanding and renewal. These themes continue in the other musical selections, including “Remember Me” from the Pixar film Coco and “Wanting Memories,” popularized by the a cappella ensemble Sweet Honey in the Rock.

“We have been teaching the students that deep sorrow and mourning is only one phase of grief,” said Malcolm Richardson, Director of Education. “As we continue to experience loss, we move into a phase of celebration, where we honor those loved ones who came before us and have passed on. We celebrate them through living our own lives to the fullest and through the love we share with those who remain.”

“It has been an incredible gift to work with the choir on this repertoire because of the emotions that surface as we sing,” said Brittney Stanton, Deputy Director. “The students’ capacity for empathy towards each other is beautiful, and it speaks to the uniqueness and importance of their education at the Choir School.”

Lux Aeterna is the fifth and final concert of the Choir School’s Jubilee Concert Season, marking the 25th anniversary of the award-winning after-school program and the 140th anniversary of its intergenerational choir. Proceeds support the Choir School’s transformative program that emphasizes equity in music education by offering professional music training, academic support, mentoring, and social services to young people in the Greater Wilmington area regardless of income.

Tickets

Tickets are $35. Kids under 18 attend free of charge. The Choir School is pleased to offer $15 tickets to healthcare professionals, firefighters, law enforcement, and other first responders who worked on the front lines of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Purchase tickets by calling 302-543-8657 x4 or online at choirschoolofdelaware.org/events.

Event Details

Lux Aeterna: A Celebration of Life

When: Sunday, June 11, 2023 | 4:00pm

Where:  Grace United Methodist Church, 900 Washington St, Wilmington, DE

Tickets: $35 | Kids FREE

First Responders $15

Seniors & Military $25

College Students $15

Buy Tickets:  choirschoolofdelaware.org/events or 302-543-8657 x4

Press RSVP:  hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org or 302-543-8657 x4

Event Sponsors

The Jubilee Concert Season is sponsored by TD Charitable Foundation and supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com. 

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About the Choir School of Delaware

The Choir School of Delaware, a “Community Center that Sings,” provides life-changing after-school and summer programs for Wilmington children ages 7-17 in an intergenerational environment. Programs combine professional-level choral training and performance opportunities with homework help, mentoring, and social services, creating a safe, inspiring environment where young people realize their full potential. An intergenerational choir anchors the after-school program and performs throughout the state. 

Artistic Samples

“Total Praise” arr. Richard Smallwood https://youtu.be/1GSEbq8sgCo

“It’s a Grand Night for Singing” from State Fair https://youtu.be/b2HeIb72xUw

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To download the press release, click here.

For Immediate Release
Press Contact: Hannah Grasso
hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org
(302) 543-8657 x4
Spanish Language Press Contact: Karelin Torres
ktorres@choirschoolofdelaware.org
(302) 543-8657 x3

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY WITH THE CHOIR SCHOOL OF DELAWARE AT  SUN, MOON, AND STARS, A CONCERT OF GLOBAL MUSIC

The Choir  School of Delaware presents  Sun, Moon, and Stars, a concert of global music in celebration  of Earth Day, at Grace United Methodist Church (Wilmington, DE) on Saturday, April 29 at 4:00pm. The Choir School will perform music from countries around the world that explores our connection to Mother Earth  and our responsibility to protect the planet.

The Choir School of Delaware is an intergenerational choir where professional musicians, adult  volunteers, and talented youth sing side-by-side. This acclaimed ensemble has a long tradition of excellence, helping young people lift their voices for over 140 years. The Choir School has collaborated with internationally renowned ensembles such as The Swingles and VOCES8 and has been invited to perform around the country.

The musical selections of  Sun, Moon, and Stars come from across the globe, reflecting our shared home on Earth and our shared responsibility to protect its beauty and resources. Selections include:

• “Estela a Lua Nova”  (The Star and the New Moon), an  energetic Brazilian folk song  arrangement by Hector Villa-Lobos, revels in the beauty of the night sky.
• “Yemaya,”  a meditative composition by Diana V. Sáez,  adapts a chant melody from  West Africa honoring Yemaya, goddess of all living things in the faith of the Yoruba  people.
• “Ecco mormorar l’onde”  (Here the waves murmur), an  Italian madrigal by Claudio  Monteverdi, paints a musical portrait of a stunning sunrise.
• Rollo Dilworth’s  “Take Me to the Water,”  rooted in  the American gospel tradition,  incorporates spirituals that celebrate the cleansing, healing power of water.
• Venezuelan composer Alberto Grau’s  “Kasar mie la gaji”  (The earth is tired) offers a  haunting, insistent reminder of the threats to this beauty and our responsibility to act.

Sun, Moon, and Stars  is the fourth concert of the Choir School’s Jubilee Concert Season, marking the 25th anniversary of its award-winning after-school program and the 140th  anniversary of its intergenerational choir. Ticket proceeds directly support the Choir School’s life-changing programs, which connect Wilmington youth to professional music training,  academic support, mentoring, and social services.

Tickets

Tickets are $35 with senior, military, and college student discounts available. Kids under 18  attend free of charge. Tickets can be purchased by calling 302-543-8657 x4 or online at choirschoolofdelaware.org.

Event Details

Sun, Moon, and Stars: A Celebration of Mother Earth

When: Saturday, April 29, 2023 | 4:00pm
Where: Grace United Methodist Church, 900 Washington  St, Wilmington, DE
Tickets:  $35 | Kids FREE | Seniors & Military $25  | College Students $15
Buy Tickets: choirschoolofdelaware.org/events  or  302-543-8657 x4
Press RSVP: hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org  or  302-543-8657 x4
Event Sponsors
The Jubilee Concert Season is sponsored by TD Charitable Foundation and  supported, in part,  by a grant fro m the Delaware Division of the Artsa state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the  Arts. The Division promotes  Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com.

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 About the Choir School of Delaware

The Choir School of Delaware, a “Community Center that Sings,” provides life-changing  after-school and summer programs for Wilmington children ages 7-17. Programs combine  professional-level choral training and performance opportunities with homework help,  mentoring, and social services, creating a safe, inspiring environment where young people  realize their full potential. An intergenerational choir anchors the after-school program and  performs throughout the state.

The majority of Choir School students live at or below the poverty line. 100% of its students  graduate from high school, and all graduate with a plan to continue their education, launch a  career, or begin military service.  The Choir School  of Delaware is available to all, regardless of  income.

Artistic Samples

“Total Praise” arr. Richard Smallwood https://youtu.be/awC-cTC_24A
“It’s a Grand Night for Singing” from  State Fair https://youtu.be/b2HeIb72xUw

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Press Release Download

For Immediate Release
Press Contact: Hannah Grasso
hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org (302) 543-8657 x4

CHOIR SCHOOL TO HOST WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS, CONCERT CELEBRATING BLACK EXCELLENCE AND HISTORY

EVENT DETAILS

We Hold These Truths: A Celebration of Black Excellence

When: Sunday, February 19 | 4:00 PM
Where: Grace United Methodist Church, 900 Washington St, Wilmington, DE
Tickets: FREE | Suggested Donation $25
Buy Tickets: https://choirschoolofdelaware.org/events/black-history-2023/ or 302-543-8657 x4
Press RSVP: hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org or 302-543-8657 x4

The Choir School of Delaware, in partnership with Delaware Humanities, is proud to present We Hold These Truths, its annual Black History Month concert. This free community event celebrates Black excellence and explores Black history through song. The Choir School’s intergenerational choir, where professional musicians, adult volunteers, and talented youth sing side-by-side, will perform.

Weather by composer Rollo Dilworth anchors the program, setting to music the poem of the same name by Claudia Rankine. Weather speaks to our national climate at the intersection of the pandemic and racial injustice, including the death of George Floyd in June 2020. An introduction by the composer and a panel discussion will invite further conversation. Reflection will turn to celebration with inspiring works including “Glory” from Selma, “Stand Up” from Harriet, and “Total Praise” by acclaimed gospel artist Richard Smallwood.

The concert celebrates Black excellence by amplifying the voices and work of Black composers and by featuring the young vocal artists of the Choir School, who are predominantly Black. Admission is FREE. A suggested donation of $25 aids in keeping the Choir School programs accessible and affordable to all regardless of income. Advance registration is recommended, as space is limited.

We Hold These Truths is the third concert of the Choir School’s Jubilee Concert Season, marking the 25th anniversary of its award-winning after-school program and the 140th anniversary of its intergenerational choir. Ticket proceeds directly support the Choir School’s life-changing programs, which connect Wilmington youth to professional music training, academic support, mentoring, and social services.

We Hold These Truths is generously sponsored by Delaware Humanities and the MidAtlantic Arts Foundation. TD Charitable Foundation is the premiere sponsor of the Jubilee Concert Season.

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ABOUT THE CHOIR SCHOOL OF DELAWARE

The Choir School of Delaware, a “Community Center that Sings,” provides life-changing after-school and summer programs for Wilmington children ages 7-17. Programs combine professional-level choral training and performance opportunities with homework help, mentoring, and social services, creating a safe, inspiring environment where young people realize their full potential.

The majority of Choir School students live at or below the poverty line. 100% of its students graduate from high school, and all graduate with a plan to continue their education, launch a career, or begin military service. The Choir School of Delaware is available to all, regardless of income.

An intergenerational choir, celebrating its 140th year in 2022-23, is the cornerstone of the Choir School’s after-school program and performs throughout the state

The Choir School of Delaware is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the  Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com.

Artistic Samples

“Total Praise”
arr. Richard Smallwood
https://youtu.be/awC-cTC_24A

“It’s a Grand Night for Singing” from State Fair
Rodgers and Hammerstein, arr. Shaw
https://youtu.be/b2HeIb72xUw

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Press Release Download

For Immediate Release
Press Contact: Hannah Grasso
hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org (302) 543-8657 x4

CHOIR SCHOOL OF DELAWARE NAMED SEMI-FINALIST, LEWIS PRIZE FOR MUSIC

The Choir School of Delaware has been named a semi-finalist for the Lewis Prize for Music’s 2023 Accelerator Awards. This recognition is a powerful endorsement of the Choir School’s work to transform lives of youth in greater Wilmington, DE through music and mentoring.

The Choir School of Delaware, a “Community Center that Sings,” provides life-changing after-school and summer programs for Wilmington children ages 7-17. Programs combine professional-level choral training and performance opportunities with homework help, mentoring, and social services, creating an inspiring, intergenerational environment where young people realize their full potential.

The majority of Choir School students live at or below the poverty line. For the past ten years 100% of students have graduated high school, and all graduates leave with a plan to continue their education, launch a career, or begin military service. The Choir School of Delaware is available to all, regardless of income.

The mission of The Lewis Prize is to partner with leaders who create positive change by investing in young people through music. Its vision is for every young person, regardless of who they are or where they live, to have the opportunity to access music programs from a young age. The Lewis Prize organization believes this can only be achieved through equitable systems change. In keeping with the Lewis Prize’s mission, the Choir School combines positive youth development with choral music education in a setting that centers racial equity and youth voices.

The Lewis Prize is highly competitive. This cycle included 249 applicants from 47 U.S. states and territories. Ten finalists will move on for consideration for the 2023 Accelerator Awards of $500,000. Thirteen semi-finalists, including the Choir School, will receive grants of $15,000 to further their impactful work. The Choir School is honored to be recognized among these 23 exceptional arts organizations.

“Through The Lewis Prize for Music’s annual Accelerator Awards, it is my aim to bring together and invest in these outstanding leaders who can reach beyond their individual programs and work collaboratively toward meaningful and real change.”

– Daniel R. Lewis, Founder and Chairman, The Lewis Prize

“As a ‘community center that sings,’ the Choir School believes deeply in the power of music-centered youth development programs to create positive change for the entire community. We have long admired the Lewis Prize for uplifting all of us doing transformative work in this field. It is truly an honor to be recognized this year alongside so many exceptional peer organizations.”

• Tabé Masé, Chair, Choir School of Delaware Board of Directors

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.thelewisprize.org/2023awards

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The Choir School of Delaware, a “Community Center that Sings,” provides life-changing after-school and summer programs for Wilmington children ages 7-17. Programs combine professional-level choral training and performance opportunities with homework help, mentoring, and social services, creating a safe, inspiring environment where young people realize their full potential.

The majority of Choir School students live at or below the poverty line. 100% of its students graduate from high school, and all graduate with a plan to continue their education, launch a career, or begin military service. The Choir School of Delaware is available to all, regardless of income.

An intergenerational choir, celebrating its 140th year in 2022-23, is the cornerstone of the Choir School’s after-school program and performs throughout the state

The Choir School of Delaware is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the  Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com.

Artistic Samples

“Total Praise”
arr. Richard Smallwood
https://youtu.be/awC-cTC_24A

“It’s a Grand Night for Singing” from State Fair
Rodgers and Hammerstein, arr. Shaw
https://youtu.be/b2HeIb72xUw

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Press Release Download

For Immediate Release
Episcopal Church in Delaware Contact: Cynde A. Bimbi
cbimbi@delaware.church | 302.256.0374
Choir School of Delaware Contact: Hannah Grasso
hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org | 302.543.8657

BISHOP OF THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN DELAWARE TO HOST LESSONS AND CAROLS WITH THE CHOIR SCHOOL

LEWES, DE: The Episcopal Church in Delaware proudly announces A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, led by The Rt. Rev. Kevin S. Brown, XI Bishop of Delaware. The Choir School of Delaware will present music of Advent and Christmas.

The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols tells the story of the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus in nine short Bible readings, interspersed with the singing of Christmas carols, hymns and choir anthems. Musical offerings will be led by the Choir School of Delaware’s intergenerational choir, where professional musicians, adult volunteers, and talented youth sing side-by-side.

The service will take place on Sunday, December 18 at 4:00pm, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Lewes, DE. It will also be live-streamed online at https://delaware.church/lessons-and-carols/. There is no cost for admission.

EVENT DETAILS

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
When:             Sunday, December 18 | 4:00 PM
Where:            St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 211 Mulberry Street, Lewes, DE
Admission:    Free
Livestream:   https://delaware.church/lessons-and-carols/

ABOUT THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN DELAWARE:

If you seek a Christian community that will support you, care about you, nurture you, and welcome you, there’s an Episcopal church in Delaware for you. You’re invited!

The 33 Episcopal churches in Delaware have a long, rich history of worship, service, and fellowship. Our schools, youth camp, retreat center, and outreach ministries are visible signs of our commitment to the Christian values of generosity, compassion, and faith.

ABOUT THE CHOIR SCHOOL OF DELAWARE

The Choir School of Delaware, a “Community Center that Sings,” provides life-changing after-school and summer programs for Wilmington children ages 7-17. Programs combine professional-level choral training and performance opportunities with homework help, mentoring, and social services, creating a safe, inspiring environment where young people realize their full potential.

The majority of Choir School students live at or below the poverty line. 100% of its students graduate from high school, and all graduate with a plan to continue their education, launch a career, or begin military service. The Choir School of Delaware is available to all, regardless of income.

An intergenerational choir, celebrating its 140th year in 2022-23, is the cornerstone of the Choir School’s after-school program and performs throughout the state.

Artistic Sample: Choir School of Delaware

“Total Praise”
arr. Richard Smallwood
https://youtu.be/awC-cTC_24A

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To download the official press release, click here.

For Immediate Release
Press Contact: Hannah Grasso
hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org
(302) 543-8657 x4

“THERE’S A PLACE FOR US:” CHOIR SCHOOL OF DELAWARE HOSTS ANNUAL GALA CONCERT AND CELEBRATION

The Choir School of Delaware, a music and mentoring program for Wilmington youth, proudly announces “There’s a Place for Us,” its annual Gala Fundraiser and musical theater revue. Enjoy a concert of toe-tapping Broadway tunes performed by vocalists in the Choir School’s intergenerational choir, featuring solos, duets, and group numbers from such popular shows as Into the Woods, Dreamgirls, The Wiz, Porgy and Bess, and more. After the concert, the party continues next door at the Sheraton Suites Downtown with heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, a Jubilee cake, and more singing!

The Gala is the first concert of the Choir School’s Jubilee Concert Season, marking the 25th anniversary of the award-winning after-school program and the 140th anniversary of its intergenerational choir. Gala proceeds directly support the Choir School’s life-changing programs, which connect local students to professional music training, academic support,  mentoring, and social services. The generous support of Gala attendees and donors keeps the programs accessible to all families, regardless of income.

EVENT DETAILS

“There’s a Place For Us:” A Gala Concert and Celebration
When:             Saturday, October 15, 2022 | 6:00 PM
Where:            Grace United Methodist Church, 900 Washington St, Wilmington, DE; Reception to follow at Sheraton Suites Downtown (next door)
Tickets:          $125
Buy Tickets: https://choirschoolofdelaware.org/events/ or 302-543-8657 x4
Attire:             Cocktail
RSVP By:       October 3, 2022

ABOUT THE CHOIR SCHOOL OF DELAWARE

The Choir School of Delaware, a “Community Center that Sings,” provides life-changing after-school and summer programs for Wilmington children ages 7-17. Programs combine professional-level choral training and performance opportunities with homework help, mentoring, and social services, creating a safe, inspiring environment where young people realize their full potential.

The majority of Choir School students live at or below the poverty line. 100% of its students graduate from high school, and all graduate with a plan to continue their education, launch a career, or begin military service. The Choir School of Delaware is available to all, regardless of income.

An intergenerational choir, celebrating its 140th year in 2022-23, is the cornerstone of the Choir School’s after-school program and performs throughout the state

The Choir School of Delaware is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the  Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com.

Artistic Sample

“Total Praise” arr. Richard Smallwood
https://youtu.be/awC-cTC_24A

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Press Release Download

For Immediate Release
Choir School of Delaware Contact: Hannah Grasso
hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org | (302) 543-8657 x4

CHOIR SCHOOL ANNOUNCES OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM; NEW STAFF APPOINTMENTS

DATES: August 2022 – June 2023, starting August 29
SIGN UP: https://choirschoolofdelaware.org/forms/audition/
LOCATION: 2013 N Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19802
PRESS INQUIRIES: Hannah Grasso, hgrasso@choirschoolofdelaware.org
STUDENT INQUIRIES: Dr. Tracy C. McNair, tmcnair@choirschoolofdelaware.org

The Choir School of Delaware is now enrolling students ages 7-17 for its after-school program, which combines music education and performance with comprehensive mentoring. All students are welcome and no prior music experience is required.

The Choir School’s out-of-school-time program gives children from all backgrounds the skills, confidence, and competence needed to achieve their full potential. Programming addresses the systemic causes of generational poverty and socioeconomic disparities by serving as a “community center that sings” to create a more equitable Wilmington.

The after-school program runs Monday through Thursday and follows the Brandywine School District calendar. Transportation is available and a daily meal is provided. The Choir School works to ensure that no students have financial barriers to accessing its dynamic programming. Tuition for the entire school year is $400. Generous financial aid is available through private sources and Purchase of Care.

The Choir School’s intergenerational choir, now in its 140th year, is the cornerstone of the after-school program. Students sing alongside adult mentors, give public performances throughout Delaware, and often tour various parts of the country. In addition, students receive homework help, college and career counseling, private voice and piano lessons, and one-on-one, long-term mentor connections.

Students and alumni cite a sense of belonging and acceptance at the Choir School:

• “I love the atmosphere at the Choir School. Every time I come here, I leave feeling much better than I came.” – Ari, Class of 2020
• “The Choir School is a place where no matter who you are or what age, race, or gender you are, you’re still part of the family. With how divided the world can be, that gives me a lot of hope for the future.” – Lex, Class of 2021

Students and families who would like to learn more can contact Dr. Tracy C. McNair, Family Services and Programming Coordinator, at 302-543-8657 x7 or visit choirschoolofdelaware.org.

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In support of increased student enrollment, the Choir School is pleased to announce one staff promotion and two new staff appointments. The work of these committed individuals will increase family engagement, facilitate community connections, and welcome more students to the after-school program.

Ms. Brittney L. Stanton was promoted to Deputy Director and Assistant Conductor. Since her appointment as Director of Education and Assistant Conductor in 2019, Ms. Stanton has overseen three successful seasons of educational programming and performances while building strong relationships with students, families, volunteers, and community leaders. Her leadership was instrumental in the Choir School’s successful emergence from the pandemic and the expansion of its program offerings. In her new role as Deputy Director, Ms. Stanton will work with the Executive Director to oversee the Choir School team in daily project management and long-term planning.

Ms. Stanton is a professionally trained music teacher and soprano who works with students of varying ages and abilities to help them develop strong music literacy skills and grow a love for the arts that is lifelong. Having taught music in both suburban and urban settings, she is a dedicated, veteran pedagogue. Ms. Stanton studied Music Education at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD with a focus in choral arts. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Additionally, Ms. Stanton holds a Master of Science degree in Teaching, also from McDaniel College.

Mr. Malcolm S. Richardson was appointed as Director of Education and Programming. He will work closely with students, families, and volunteers while overseeing the after-school program.

Mr. Richardson is a native of Newark, New Jersey and currently resides in Newark,

Delaware. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Vocal Performance from the nation’s first historically Black degree granting institution, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania. He also earned a Master of Arts degree in Music Education from Liberty University, where he is pursuing a Doctorate of Music Education. While attending Liberty, he also serves as Director of Education & Programming for the Choir School of Delaware, where he sings among and mentors young vocalists through a shared gift of song, and love for music education. Mr. Richardson serves as a resource and advocate for young musicians and strives to strengthen their love for music and arts education.

Ms. Sophia DiLeo was appointed as Executive Assistant. She will support the Choir School staff in logistics planning, workflow organization, and other administrative tasks. She will also serve as a liason to the Board of Directors.

Ms. DiLeo is a native of Princeton, New Jersey and holds a B.M. in Music Education and M.M. in Voice Performance from the University of Delaware. Her professional endeavors and aspirations specialize in arts advocacy, trauma-informed voice instruction, empowering young women in the performing arts, and creating space for all genres and styles in the voice studio. She has served as a private voice instructor, a production assistant for the University of Delaware Opera Theatre, and an administrative assistant for the National Opera Association. She has performed in a wide range of styles and venues throughout her career. Recent roles include Diana in Next to Normal and Paige in the world premiere of From Our Roots. She will debut her first professional role at Philadelphia’s Walnut Street Theatre for the 2022-2023 Mainstage Season. Ms. DiLeo is absolutely overjoyed to further the Choir School’s mission this year and to continue strengthening the power of advocacy and spirit of kindness within the community.

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About The Choir School of Delaware

The Choir School of Delaware’s (CSD) out-of-school-time programs combine professional-level choral training and performance with academic tutoring and one-on-one adult mentoring. Children from all backgrounds gain skills, confidence, and competence to achieve their full potential. CSD’s programming addresses the systemic causes of generational poverty and socioeconomic disparities by serving as a “community center that sings” to create a more equitable Wilmington.

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To download the official press release, click here.