The Texas Boys Choir was founded in 1946 by George Bragg to provide any boy, regardless of socio-economic or ethnic background, a structured environment in which to learn the fundamentals of world-class vocal performance. Essential to this development is artistic training in an accredited academic institution where experienced teachers emphasize self-discipline, confidence, patriotism, and leadership. Based in Fort Worth, the Texas Boys Choir performs locally, nationally and internationally, led by current director S. Bryan Priddy. For the past 65 years, the choir has been a publicly supported, non-profit educational institution dedicated to fostering the talents of gifted young men. Texas Boys Choir continues to be an important part of the North Texas Arts Community.
The Texas Boys Choir operates in the tradition of European church choirs, with boys beginning their vocal training at a young age and continuing through the changing of their voices. The creation of the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts also follows this tradition, as it allows the boys to train while attending their own school, a very rare opportunity afforded to very few boys choirs in this country. While the school is the home of the Texas Boys Choir, any student, male or female, may attend the school to study the fine arts alongside a challenging academic curriculum.
This extensive training, in both music and academics, allows the choir to maintain a very high standard of excellence. Stellar performances have earned the Texas Boys Choir two Grammy Awards from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, three George Washington Honor Medal Awards from the Freedom Foundation, a Bronze Award from the International Film and Television Festival of New York, and a gold medal in Mixed Boys’ Choirs at the 2004 Choir Olympics in Bremen, Germany.
In its history, the Texas Boys Choir has traveled all across the world, including to Australia, Japan, England, Mexico, Latvia, Austria and the Czech Republic. They have sung for the Pope, Presidents of the U.S., and for Kings and Heads of State. They have appeared frequently on National Television and on radio broadcasts. With over 40 professional recordings, the Texas Boys Choir continues to be one of the top boys choirs in the world. Its unique sound creates great demand for performances including concerts, convention openings, operas, weddings, and more.
For any boy who possesses basic ability and love of music, membership in the Texas Boys Choir can open the doors to an exciting world, which can make a tremendous difference in their lives and the lives of those who hear them perform. Striving for excellence keeps them continuously working to maintain their high standard.