BCS Choirs Earn High Marks at CMEA Music Festival

Bullis Charter School’s four choirs earned honors for their performances at the annual California Music Education Association’s Bay Area Music Festival at Saratoga High School May 11.

The choirs, comprising more than 145 students, have practiced twice a week before or after school since September.

The Treble Voices Choir (grades 1-3) received a unanimous Superior score, the highest possible. The G-Clef (grades 4-5) and Sonore choirs (students in grades 4-6 who practice during their lunch hour) also earned a Superior score, and the Cambiata Choir (grades 6-8) an Excellent.

“Our choirs operate under the philosophy that anyone who wants to sing can sing and sing well,” said David Belles, the charter school’s music specialist and choral director. “I have yet to meet a student who cannot sing. The hard work, drive and dedication of each member of these ensembles are what keep this program flourishing.”

The California Music Education Association promotes music education in schools, sponsors festivals and other musical activities, and provides information, training and an exchange of ideas for music educators.

“My children get very little exposure to the arts outside of school,” said Denise Denney, whose three children attend Bullis Charter School. “Rehearsing at school at 7:30 a.m. twice a week taught them real dedication.”

Denney said competing in the music festival and hearing the performances of other choirs gave students a “tremendous appreciation for music.”

We wouldn’t have been able to teach them that unique appreciation on our own,” she added.



 
Bullis Charter School (BCS) is a free public charter school authorized by the Santa Clara County Board of Education (SCCBOE) and subject to the fiscal and programmatic oversight of the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE).