Chester Children's Chorus Celebrates 15 Years
Associate Professor of Music John Alston created a community of strivers and seekers in the Chester Children's Chorus, which he founded with seven boys in 1994. Now with more than 100 boys and girls of all ages that enjoy a summer learning program that includes science taught by College faculty members, African dance and drumming, and a reading program, the chorus makes far more than a joyous sound.
"While I hope that most of them will remain music-lovers and some of them will embrace classical music, what I really dream about for these kids is that they can go out and change the world," Alston says. "And that's the truth."
Alston's efforts to expand upon the successful model of the chorus culminated last fall with the opening of the Chester Upland School of the Arts. Students there, currently in pre-K to second grade, are immersed in a curriculum that combines rigorous academics with music, dance, and visual arts.
The chorus will celebrate its 15-year anniversary with concerts on May 8 and 9 at 8 p.m. in Lang Concert Hall.
April 7th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
I commend Mr. Alston as he continues to undertake the children of Chester. I was in the chorus a few years ago and to this day I still embrace some of the positive words he gave me. He is a great friend and mentor.
April 11th, 2009 at 5:40 pm
God Bless You, John.
April 21st, 2009 at 11:09 am
Keep up the good stuff!
May 12th, 2009 at 9:27 am
I was involved with Upward Bound when at Swarthmore and am so glad to see this program take root at Swarthmore, and now in the greater Chester community through the school, as it helps the kids grow. John is nothing short of amazing and brings out the best in these kids.
May 16th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
I'm currently in the chorus and John Alston is truly amazing. He is truly a a gift from God and I thank him so much for all that he has done and continues t do or me
May 22nd, 2009 at 2:05 am
Hey Dr. Alston,
I think it was Kerry Stubbs that told me about success with the Chester Children's Chorus.
You may not want to remember me, but here I am (most humbly) nevertheless? How very wonderful what you have done (& as one little chorister pointed out "without screaming". I wonder if Dr. Alson ever experienced such when he was in the Newark Boys Chorus?
I am very proud of you John! How is Warren? If you feel like it, drop me a note.
All the best,
Jim McCarthy
July 20th, 2009 at 9:28 pm
We are in the chesetr children's chorus and we love John for all the help he has gave us. We thank him for giving us this oppurtunity to be in this amazing chorus. Also…….WE LOVE YOU JOHN!!!!!!!
December 11th, 2009 at 4:37 am
John,
I admire the course that you have taken. I had often wondered about where you were. I see that you are in a very good place-you are caring and sharing. And through your self-sacrificing actions you are reaching the hearts and minds of young ones who will be able to take this love and education with them throughout the rest of their lives and hopefully perpetuate the caring and sharing structure that the CCC has taught them. May you continue to have success in your strategic planning for the continued growth of this project. Anthony Spruill says hello as well.
Take care,
Ronald Stancil
April 9th, 2010 at 9:38 pm
John Alston, I have to say, out of all the people, you are the person I respect the most and thinking about it, you're who I want to be in 30 years!
April 14th, 2010 at 11:16 am
John,
Congratulations on your 15th! I can't believe it has been 15 already. Your concerts are a joy and the work you are doing is so important. Thanks for creating the video so we can remind ourselves of what you are doing anytime we want here online. Hope to hear you on the 8th.
Best wishes!
Bill Parker '76