Our wonderful alumni from the past 27 years are busy working in careers around the globe – everything from education to e-commerce to social work to singing! This month, we are happy to share some memories from a DCC alum from the early 2000s.
Originally from Denver, CO, Bass-baritone Ben Brady received his bachelor’s of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Michigan.
We were pleased to have Ben share his gifts at a private fundraising event in December 2022 where we introduced the DCC to new supporters from across the city. Ben credits the Denver Children’s Choir with being a major reason he pursued a career as a professional musician.
Side note as you are reading: the Denver Children’s Choir (DCC) was formerly called the Rocky Mountain Children’s Choir (RMCC) when Ben was a member.
Before we begin, how about an ice-breaker: since the interview will be posted on Valentine’s Day, what is your favorite February 14th memory?
Last year comes to mind: Ali (my wife) and I went to a show and I was pulled onstage for a musical number and was promptly dressed up as cupid complete with an adult-sized diaper! (which I still have…)
Where are you and what are you up to now? Any musical connections?
I’m still making music every day, pursuing a career as an opera singer, and traveling all around the world.
What was your favorite part of RMCC/DCC?
The community – such a joy to make music with other young singers from all over Denver.
What do you think is the most important thing the DCC does?
Brings the program to areas all over the greater Denver area, making it accessible to families who can’t easily transport themselves to rehearsals.
In what ways did RMCC/DCC impact you?
I joined RMCC before I knew how much singing would be a part of my life. It’s safe to say RMCC was one of the first major influences on my path as a singer.
Anything else you’d like to include/say?
Thank so you much for all you continue to do to keep young choirs thriving in Denver!
This summer Ben covers Don Basilio in The Barber of Seville as a first-year Santa Fe Opera Apprentice Artist. Mr. Brady was a participant in San Francisco Opera’s Merola Young Artist Program in the summer of 2021. Operatic roles include Colline (La Boheme) with Opera Modesto, Banco (Macbetto), Zaccaria (Nabucco) and Rocco (Fidelio) with West Bay Opera, the Sprecher (The Magic Flute) with Eugene Opera, Dr. Dulcamara (L’elisir d’amore) with Cal Baptist University and the Page in San Francisco Opera’s Roberto Devereux.
Read more about Ben, and follow his career on his website.
