About The Choir School at St. John’s

WHAT IS CHOIR SCHOOL?

A variable-rate tuition after-school music and singing program for elementary students grades 3-5. It runs on Tuesdays at Dondero Elementary, and Thursdays at New Franklin Elementary, from 2:30-4:00pm.

Our Mission

The Choir School at St. John’s engages enthusiastic young singers in developing their unique voices, growing their understanding and mastery of the language of music, creating joy and confidence by singing in community, and creating meaningful connections with their peers.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

Eager and enthusiastic music makers in grades 3-5 at Dondero and New Franklin Schools in the Portsmouth Public Schools. If your Portsmouth elementary-aged student does not attend Dondero or New Franklin and you'd like to discuss enrolling them, please email Olin Johannessen.

If your student does not attend school in Portsmouth and you’d like to learn about our St. John’s Youth Music Program, running most Sunday mornings, please connect with Ashley Wade, Director of Children’s Music and Ministries.

WHAT ARE STUDENTS learning?

Students can expect…

• to create meaningful connections with our highly qualified staff of caring teachers and other like-minded and enthusiastic music students

• to gain confidence in their musical ability through performance as individuals and as an ensemble

• to discover and develop a newfound love and appreciation of the joys of communal singing

• to grow their knowledge of music theory, ear-training, and sight-singing

• to enjoy a growing sense of pride in themselves and their accomplishments as musicians, as well as their sense of self

Our instructional team focuses on building music literacy, improving vocal skills, and growing students’ self-confidence in a fun and supportive environment.

HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?

The Choir School at St. John’s, an outreach program of St. John’s Episcopal Church, is able to operate on a variable-rate tuition model, and also receives funding from the church. We raise money each year through benefit concerts, direct-ask mailings, individual donations, and corporate sponsorships. St. John’s believes that providing variable-tuition access to a high-quality music program for children is something that makes our community, and all of us shine brighter. The ripple effect of young people who feel eager and empowered to take on the world is the great hope of our future. Support our kids and community by making a donation today.

WHAT IS THE COST?

Our program operates on a variable rate tuition model, scholarships are available. The suggested tuition per-student, per semester is $200.

Our leadership

Choir School is run by co-directors Olin Johannessen, Ashley Wade, and Jennifer McPherson Mulhern. Click through below to learn more about our team.