The New Amsterdam Boys and Girls Choir begins it second year as a co-ed group this fall. Its home will again be the Renaissance School for the Arts, a middle school at 410 East 100th Street.The school had about seventy students last year and plans to grow to 200 when it is fully enrolled. Each student will be introduced to choral singing, and selected students will become members of the NABGC, which meets after school twice a week.
To qualify, students must demonstrate interest, motivation and singing ability. Those selected receive vocal and musicianship training. As they demonstrate proficiency, they are given opportunities to perform at high-profile public events and to share a variety of cultural experiences.
Although the choir operated for more than twenty years as an all-boy group, Founding Director James Backmon says girls have brought great enthusiasm to the group. In time, he hopes to form choirs of different age and skill levels, both mixed and single-sex.
“Today’s children deserve access to the same gift I was fortunate to receive growing up here,” says Mr. Backmon. “With in-school choirs we have an opportunity to interest more children in the after-school program and in the disciplines and rewards of the arts in general.”
For further information about the Renaissance School, contact Tammy Pate-Spears at 718-935-3601 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
