Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

The Texas Boys Choir is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their angelic voices for over 70 years. Founded in 1946 by George Bragg, a music teacher in Fort Worth, Texas, the choir has become a cultural icon in the state and beyond. Bragg, who had a passion for choral music, started the choir with just a handful of boys from his school. He believed that singing in a choir could help young boys develop discipline, teamwork, and a love for music. As the choir grew in popularity, Bragg decided to make it a separate entity from the school and established the Texas Boys Choir as a non-profit organization. Over the years, the choir has had many talented members, but some of the most notable include David Phelps, who went on to become a successful Christian music artist, and Scott Hendricks, a Grammy-winning record producer. The choir has also had several directors, including Bragg himself, who led the choir until 1977. One of the highlights of the Texas Boys Choir's history was their performance at the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy in 1961. The choir was invited to sing at the ceremony after Kennedy's wife, Jacqueline, heard them perform on a visit to Fort Worth. The boys sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" and "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" at the inauguration, and their performance was widely praised. The choir has also performed at several other prestigious events, including the opening of the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and the World's Fair in New York City. They have toured extensively throughout the United States and internationally, performing in countries such as Japan, Australia, and Germany. In addition to their live performances, the Texas Boys Choir has also recorded several albums over the years. Their first album, "Christmas Carols by the Texas Boys Choir," was released in 1955 and remains a beloved holiday classic. They have also recorded albums of sacred music, folk songs, and patriotic songs. The Texas Boys Choir has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 1959, they were awarded the prestigious Edison Award in the Netherlands for their album "Folk Songs of Many Lands." They have also been recognized by the Texas Legislature and the Fort Worth City Council for their contributions to the arts. Despite their many accomplishments, the Texas Boys Choir has faced some challenges over the years. In the 1990s, the choir experienced financial difficulties and was forced to file for bankruptcy. However, they were able to reorganize and continue performing, thanks to the support of their fans and the community. Today, the Texas Boys Choir continues to inspire audiences with their beautiful voices and dedication to choral music. They perform regularly throughout the year, including their annual Christmas concert, which has become a beloved tradition in Fort Worth. The choir also offers music education programs for young boys, continuing George Bragg's vision of using music to enrich the lives of children. In conclusion, the Texas Boys Choir is a remarkable ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Their dedication to excellence and their commitment to music education have made them a beloved institution in Texas and beyond. As they continue to inspire audiences with their angelic voices, the Texas Boys Choir will undoubtedly remain a cultural icon for many years to come.

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