In her first voice lesson, five-year-old Grace Callahan declared “I’m going to be an opera singer.” “This was a first for me in 45 years of teaching,” recalls Cape Symphony teaching artist Angela Poirier. “Grace was an unusual student at a young age.” Now entering 6th grade, Grace’s seriousness of purpose has not wavered, and she’s about to begin a exciting new chapter in her training.
Looking back, Grace can’t remember ever NOT singing. “My Mom signed me up for Youth Chorus [at Cape Symphony], and I thought, ‘this is so cool. I absolutely love this.’” Chorus leader Mary George flagged her talent immediately, encouraging private lessons.
Grace’s repertoire began with Disney classics and quickly grew to include Broadway favorites and more. At 9, she performed “In Dreams” from Lord of the Rings as a guest soloist with the full Cape Symphony Orchestra at our “Passport Down Under” concert. Was she nervous? “Yes, but no. At dress rehearsal, I was just so scared. But I got over it!”
In 2024, Grace was accepted into the prestigious New England Conservatory Prep Chamber Chorus after a competitive video and in-person audition process. Her Cape Symphony education and performances have prepared her well to sing at NEC’s exquisite Jordan Hall! Starting this fall, Grace will also take private lessons at NEC. It’s thrilling, but also bittersweet. “I don’t want to leave Angela,” she says.
“I hope Grace takes a sense of community with her,” says Angela. “She was part of a group of people, both other students and faculty/staff, who supported her in her music education... She made many music friends at Cape Symphony while being part of recitals and community outreach.”
Heading up to Boston for lessons, rehearsals, and performances will be a time management challenge, especially as Grace also studies piano and cello here on the Cape. How does she manage all the practicing? “Honestly, whenever it fits in,” she says. “With voice, I’m always singing. It’s not a chore, it’s life.”
Grace’s Cape Symphony family will cheer her on, every step of the way.
