Maryland State Boychoir

Founded in 1987 by Frank Cimino with just 14 boys, the mission of The Maryland State Boychoir has remained clear: to foster the Boychoir tradition by offering talented boys opportunities to sing and build self-esteem, self-discipline, and character. Thirty years later, the Boychoir still embraces that goal.

Today, The Maryland State Boychoir (MSB), Maryland’s “Official Goodwill Ambassadors,” is comprised of approximately 130 choristers, ages 7 to 20, who represent a wide range of ethnic, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds. They come from nine Maryland counties, Baltimore City, and the D.C. suburbs.

The Maryland State Boychoir is a diverse group of talented boys who love to sing. Qualified applicants are accepted regardless of their families’ financial means and are not discriminated against on any basis. Prior musical training is not expected, but an audition is required. Auditions are held in the fall, winter, and spring for potential members who are not required to have prior music training. A qualified applicant is any boy who loves to sing, is committed to the organization, and can sing in tune with a pleasant voice.

Not only do choristers receive training in voice lessons and music theory, but they also develop friendships with boys from varied backgrounds, build self-esteem and self-discipline through hard work and dedication, and develop a sense of community through their commitment to the organization.

In the tradition of English Boychoir schools, the MSB teaches vocal technique, music theory, and choral singing. The organization is divided into five choirs: Resident Training Choir, Treble Choir, Concert Choir, Tour Choir, and the Young Men's Chorus. Together they perform a broad repertoire, from traditional Renaissance to contemporary gospel.

After passing an initial audition, choristers begin training which follows the scheme established by The Royal School of Church Music. Herein, the boys are introduced to all aspects of musicianship and professional ensemble performance. In a series of graded tests, the young singer progresses in theory and vocal training through the stages of Junior Choirboy and Senior Choirboy to Full Chorister. Each level of achievement is recognized by a different colored ribbon upon which the chorister’s medal is hung and worn during performances.

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