The American Boychoir
The American Boychoir, a national treasure, celebrates its 75th Anniversary in 2012. Regarded as the United States' premiere boys' concert choir, the group is based in Princeton, N.J. and includes boys in grades 4 through 8. The American Boychoir has performed with internationally renowned soprano Jessye Norman, prominent jazz musician Wynton Marsalis, Beyoncé, and at Carnegie Hall with Sir Paul McCartney.
Lakeland's Chandler King returns to sing with the American Boychoir. He is a member of The American Boychoir's touring group and began his duties as one of two Head Boys last fall. As Head Boy, Chandler is considered the leader of the choir and serves as the liaison between the choristers and the staff. His responsibilities include directing the boys from place to place in double-line formation and making sure they are behaving whenever the adults are not present.
"I really enjoy touring with The American Boychoir - staying with host families, performing concerts, keeping up with my school work, as well as learning how to manage my time!" states Chandler. "Touring has helped me to develop some other traits as well, including kindness and respect."
Chandler's performing career includes singing in the FPC youth choirs. In January 2010, after one of The American Boychoir concerts at First Presbyterian Church, he successfully auditioned in the sanctuary for Fernando Malvar-Ruiz, the conductor and musical director. Chandler moved to Princeton, NJ to begin The American Boychoir School, a boarding school dedicated to combining the training program for mastery of choral music with a superior academic program. The American Boychoir School values self-discipline, self-reliance, hard work, teamwork, and dedication to long-term goals. It is a great honor for him to be chosen as Head Boy for this school year.
"First Presbyterian Church is proud of Chandler King," states Dr. Gordon, director of the FPC Fine Arts Ministries. "He is a first-class musician and a fabulous singer.”
Director Fernando Malvar-Ruiz will hold auditions for young singers following the concert on Feb. 26th.
The American Boychoir concert takes place on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012, in the FPC Sanctuary, 175 Lake Hollingsworth Drive, Lakeland, at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $8 for students. For more information, please call the First Presbyterian Church office at (863) 686-7187.
# # #
The vision of First Presbyterian Church is to make and mature disciples for Jesus Christ. First Presbyterian Church responds to God’s grace by praising him and offering Christ-centered worship, Bible-based teachings, and prayerful opportunities for mission and service to all.
Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
