Let Him Soar

The Boys and Girls Choir of Harlem Alumni Ensemble performed at Rome Free Academy under the direction of Terrance Wright (head choreographer, director, and lead singer of the Boys Choir of Harlem). Hank Leo, CEO of the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley, arranged with George Reyes (Alumni Association) for the Choir to come to Rome, NY to perform and record with the YMCA's award winning Wind Ensemble, which is under the musical direction of Scott Rutledge and guest conductor Joel Martin (world-renowned classical jazz pianist and writer). Through meetings with PBS, the concert / project will be produced by PBS for a future documentary about the program and recording project.
Eventhough, the entire experience was profound, in my opinion the most memorable part of the evening was when we performed Let Him Soar by Roy Schryver, along with cowriters Donna Johnston, Paul Lussier and Stef Denegre . It was written in memory of the late Dr. Walter J. Turnbull, founder and original director of the Boys and Girls Choir of Harlem. Growing up in the late 80's early 90's; had it not been for Dr. Turnbull, I would have been swallowed up by the Harlem streets. During my adolescent and teenage years I attended the Boys Choir of Harlem. I had the oppurtunity to be soloist on their first contemporary CD titled Song of Hope and also recorded a duet with Brian McKnight. I performed in France, Canada, Puerto Rico, and much of the United States. I performed alongside such artist as Phylicia Rashad, Dawn Lewis, Micheal Bolton, Raven Simone, Tajina, Micheal Jackson, Eddie Murphy and many more established actors and artists alike. Performing abroad is what helped me cultivate my own unique musical expression that encompasses a multicultural understanding. Performing again with my alumni brothers and sisters in Rome NY, made me realize how one man's personal sacrifice could dramatically impact so many lives in a positve way. Dr. Turnbull couldve got married, had a biologicl family, and continue being an opera singer; but he chose to bring into fruition a dream bigger than ego. It was a revolutionary tactic, and we are just pieces of that dream. As I sat on the bus amidst these young professionals, I understood the importance of an organization like ours. Dr. Turnbull's life help me realize why its important to be who you are supposed to be and not who you want to be. Its because the dream you have for yourself couldnt compare to the reality The Creator can manifest through you.
I hope you enjoy the video I posted.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Dr.
• Walter
• Turnbull
• Alejandro
• Ortiz
• Terrance
• Wright
• Boy
• and
• Girls
• Choir
• Alumni
• Ensemble

[BygBaby3]

Rest In Peace Mr. Terry Wright Im sorry I never got the chance to meet you. From what I hear you were amazing, kind, humble and inspiring to everyone you met. Gone to soon but theres more to this life...

*tear*

~kammy

[lanthony765]

oh RFA,HOW I LOVE TO PREFORM ON THAT STAGE.;)

[kita711]

RIP Mr. Wright you are missed everyday and i am so blessed to have had you as a teacher, mentor, and friend i miss singing with you

[cherrytwochain]

RIP to Terry, I attended Clark Atlanta University with him, very humble and friendly to all!

[LadyA4718]

wow RIP Mr. Wright

-Ash

[cfamcny939]

My son was involved with this. This was an excellent concert, a red-letter night for music. It's too bad that the YCCA program hit its decline with friction from the local school district.  We need more arts in our cities, and less sports, frankly. I hope everyone buys the YCCA CDs, which can be found on iTunes, CD Baby, and other online retailers. Thank you.

[Prayingmantis72]

I was in a little band with Roy and he is a god of a musician. Congrats to Roy, my friends Paul and Steph and to Donna. another great song..wouldnt expect anything less guys.

[GR8QUAH]

Was a pleasure to play with these guys that night.

Just noticed that I'm in it, heheh. 1:54 on the left.

[dianedlj]

Are there anymore video with Alex Ortiz, seen him sing on America Got Talent and he deserves to be noticed for his singing. He is really really good.

[000donna]

I saw Alejandrino last night on America's Got Talent!!! Congratulations, young man! You are ON YOUR WAY!!!! So proud of you and so proud to have your marvelous singing on "Let Him Soar"!!! And so very glad that America gets to hear and enjoy the talent of your wonderful group!!!

[AmaRJust]

I am proud to say that Roy Schryver is a friend of mine, and I've been blessed to play music with him. He writes from the heart, and this song clearly demonstrates his passion and ability to bring spirit to music. The inspirational performance by the Boys and Girls Choir of Harlem Alumni Ensemble is likewise moving, and I wish I could've experienced this live. Thanks to all involved for creating and sharing this moment...