visions & values

The PALS Children’s Chorus believes that every child has unlimited artistic potential. Our artistic staff is committed to fostering the courage and generosity necessary to translate that potential into powerful art.

PALS believes that no child should be denied an artistic education for financial reasons. Our admissions policy is need-blind, and we are committed to meeting the needs of a diverse student body.

The children at PALS belong to a strong community that is about both values and art. We teach the kids that being an artist means being generous, sensitive, courageous, and professional. The children put these values into their everyday lives, and have developed a reputation for outstanding character as well as inspired artistry.

Students in PALS work with the same artistic staff throughout their time in the program, and develop caring student-teacher relationships. Older singers are frequently called upon to work with their younger counterparts, as examples, mentors, vocal coaches, and teaching interns. By actively engaging children in the task of motivating and teaching one another, PALS cultivates leadership and builds an environment founded on mutual support.

PALS is committed to promoting New Music by commissioning new works and performing works that are rare and difficult. We train our choristers to approach challenging new scores with open-minded determination. While working on experimental music, the children develop creativity, adventurousness, and unparalleled musicianship. PALS believes that exposing both students and audiences to experimental works will help ensure a bright future for composers and musicians in the 21st century.

The PALS Children’s Chorus believes that performing artists have a moral responsibility to use art to foster positive change in their communities and in the world at large.In 2000, PALS introduced the PALS Musical Philanthropy Initiative, a series of benefit concerts that support important children’s causes throughout the Greater Boston area. Our VOICES Concert Series is dedicated to commissioning new works that will raise awareness and funding for humanitarian and environmental causes.