Advancing the Spirit of Community
We believe that music should not be limited to those who can visit the concert hall. Our Bridges program, launched in 2013, is an integral part of the Back Bay Chorale’s mission to celebrate and share the unifying power of music with our community.
ESOL Chorus
Music and English are universal languages. Everyone should have access to these languages without fear of making mistakes, whether spoken or sung. In partnership with the Boston Public Library, our Bridges ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Chorus provides participants with an opportunity to make vocal music, improve their English language skills, and develop friendships with singers—within the ESOL community as well as with singers from Back Bay Chorale. Bridges participants meet each Tuesday morning to learn basic singing skills and songs in English. At the end of each class, they have the opportunity to make new friends and practice their English conversation skills. No previous music skills are required.
Community Engagement Coordinator Riikka Pietiläinen Caffrey, a native Finn, leads the Bridges program. She is a renowned teaching artist, conductor and singer in the Boston area. Her research focuses on equity and inclusivity in music education and challenging the patriarchical narratives in music. Riikka believes in fostering versatility in her students in order to give them optimal chance for success. She is currently Associate Professor of the Practice and Director of Choral and Vocal Performance at Boston College. Read more about Riikka here >.
About the Video
In February 2021, the ESOL Chorus and participants of The Complete Chorister recorded "We Shall Overcome", that most famous anthem of the American civil rights movement.