Finding Their Voice: Milwaukee Children’s Choir One Year After Joining WCM

Finding Their Voice: Milwaukee Children’s Choir One Year After Joining WCM

Last year, the Milwaukee Children’s Choir (MCC) became part of the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music (WCM), marking a new chapter for the beloved youth ensemble. The acquisition was designed to strengthen the choir’s future, expand access for families, and give young singers more opportunities than ever before.

Twelve months later, the results are clear: MCC is thriving.

A Place to Belong

This fall, MCC launched its 2025–26 season with energy and excitement. Students in grades 2–12 are still being welcomed into the program, no experience required. Whether a child is singing in a group for the very first time or returning to deepen their skills, MCC makes space for every voice.

For Desiree and her son Chase, that space has meant discovery:

“Our son loves the Milwaukee Children’s Choir—especially making friends, singing with a group, and learning new songs,” she says. “Experiences like this have helped him discover his passion.”

To meet growing demand, MCC also opened a new rehearsal site this fall at the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Whitefish Bay, joining its existing locations and making rehearsals more accessible for families across the region.

Breaking Down Barriers

Since becoming part of WCM, the choir has gained expanded administrative and financial support—ensuring that no child is kept from participating because of cost. Last year alone, nearly $8,000 in scholarships were awarded, and this year that support is growing. Uniforms are provided at no cost, and all concerts remain free and open to the public.

As WCM President and CEO Eric Tillich explains:

“Aspiring choral singers from across Greater Milwaukee now have a place to grow—both musically and personally. We’re proud to expand access to transformative music experiences for children and families.”

On Stage, In the Spotlight

Over the past year, MCC singers have shared the stage with some of Milwaukee’s most acclaimed performing arts organizations. They’ve:

• Sung in the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s Bach Week Opening Concert and Arts in Community Education (ACE) Series
• Collaborated with the Florentine Opera Company
• Performed with Broadway luminary Kate Baldwin at the Bradley Symphony Center

And the opportunities keep growing. In March 2026, MCC will return to the MSO stage for a performance of Bach’s monumental St. Matthew Passion.

MSO Music Director Ken-David Masur calls it an important moment:

“Every singing child is a happy child. To create an environment that is safe and joyful—such as a chorus that cultivates excellence in choral harmony—is vital to our community.”

Building for the Future

Now in its 31st season, the Milwaukee Children’s Choir is flourishing under the Conservatory umbrella. With expert faculty, expanded resources, and WCM’s full network of programs and locations behind it, MCC is positioned for continued artistic excellence and sustainable growth.

For families considering enrollment, there’s still time. And for the children stepping into rehearsal each week, the benefits are already lasting a lifetime.

👉 Learn more about enrollment and upcoming performances at milwaukeechildrenschoir.org.