We are a music school committed to the tradition of boy choir training. We offer extensive instruction in musical skills and choral performance for boys and young men in the East Bay area. The choir school develops vocal skills, knowledge of music theory, and repertoire which is proudly showcased in local, national, and international venues. We are a member of American Federation of Pueri Cantores, the Student Choral Organization of the Catholic Church.
Our Program
The Golden Gate Boys Choir is a member of Pueri Cantores USA and Pueri Cantores International, the official choral music association of the Roman Catholic Church for boy~, girl~ and children's choirs throughout the world. We are a regional Catholic Boys Choir, which draws many of our member boys and families from parochial and private Catholic Schools. However, boys of any denomination are welcome as choir members, keeping in mind that we sing liturgical music for Masses and other liturgical events, Christmas Carols and other religious music, as well as folk songs, selections from Broadway musicals and patriotic pieces. Pueri Cantores International states that anyone who is willing to "sing to the world of God's peace" through music is a welcome collaborator in our efforts to praise God, provide inspiration and offer an excellent music education to our members.
Why Choir
In 2009, Chorus America reported in their Choral Impact Study that children who participate in a choir improve their memory, listening skills, and creativity; moreover, they developed good practice and homework habits. Later in life, choral singers tend to be more involved in their communities and better team players. Golden Gate choristers learn to set priorities, make responsible decisions, relate to their peers, present themselves with grace and dignity, and gain self-esteem. Successful members graduate with music skills, but more importantly, with a deeper understanding of themselves and their ability to be leaders in their community.
Membership
Boys ranging in age from 6 to 12 years old or boys with changed voices from 13 to 18 years old are accepted into the Golden Gate Boys Choir for a probationary three-month period. This time gives him and his family a chance to see the level of commitment and benefits of membership. Rehearsals for Apprentices are held once a week plus an additional once a month all-choir rehearsal. Minnesingers and Master Singers attend two rehearsals a week plus the monthly all-choir rehearsal.
Ready to audition
If you are ready to audition, set up an appointment to meet with our music director: Mr. Steven Meyer. Fill out our Audtion Form.
Currently we have three locations where you can meet us in person during our practices:
Wednesdays at 4pm: St. Mary Margaret Church in Oakland, 1219 Excelsior Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Thursdays at 4pm: All Saints Catholic School, 22870 2nd St, Hayward, CA 94541
Fridays at 3:00pm: St. Joseph's Elementary School, 1910 San Antonio Ave, Alameda, CA 94501
Send us an email at ggbcbr@aol.com or call us at (510) 887-4311 if you have other questions.
2024 Memorial Day Benefits Drawing
Every year, on Memorial Day, we have a benefits drawing to support our organization. Our members will reach out to you for support by selling tickets to win in a raffle. This year's first prize is Disneyland 2 night package for 4 (2 adults & 2 children). The first price includes:
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Round-trip air transportation
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2 Nights accommodations (1 room) @ a good neighbor hotel
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Round-trip airport transportation
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1 day park ticket: Disneyland
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1 day park ticket: California Adventure Park
Brought to you by Golden Gate Boys Choir in partnership with Fugazi Travel Agency, Inc. Please see document below.
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Through the Years
Our Music
Pueri Cantores
Building bridges of understanding through music since 1988
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