Alumni Spotlight: Reconnecting with Songbook Family for the Holidays

A Celebration of Music and Community

The holidays are a time for reflection, celebration, and, of course, music. On December 22, the Great American Songbook Foundation is offering a special gift to the community with two free performances of Songbook Academy® Sings the Songs of the Season. These concerts will feature 26 talented alumni from the Songbook Academy, a program that has been helping high school singers from across the country discover and hone their love for the Great American Songbook for over 15 years. As we prepare for the upcoming performances, we wanted to highlight the excitement and gratitude of some of the alumni returning to the stage, and share how their Songbook Academy experiences continue to influence their journeys.

Reunion and Reflection: The Power of Music and Connection

For many alumni, returning to the Songbook stage is a chance to reconnect with old friends and mentors, and to reflect on how far they've come. Vivienne Smith (2023) is particularly excited to return for this seasonal performance because, as she says, it allows her to showcase how much she has grown as an artist since her last Songbook Academy experience. "I love the way this community supports each other no matter where we are in the world," she says, looking forward to seeing the amazing things her fellow alums will continue to accomplish. Viv, a student at Howard University, also shared that she is proud to be a member of the Howard Gospel Choir, where she serves on the Public Relations team. The choir travels the globe spreading musical excellence and spiritual music, further highlighting the global reach of the Songbook community.

J'lan Stewart (2023) shares a similar sentiment, expressing excitement about reconnecting with the Songbook alumni community and the Christmas spirit surrounding the Palladium, where the concert will take place. “It’s always such a heartwarming feeling being back with the Songbook family,” J'lan says, reflecting on the warmth and support that has always been a hallmark of the Songbook Academy experience. He is also making waves in his local community by starting a dance team, showcasing the creativity and leadership he continues to cultivate since his Songbook journey.

Shared Experiences, Lifelong Bonds

For some alumni, the return to the Songbook stage represents more than just an opportunity to perform—it’s a chance to rekindle relationships and memories that have shaped their musical careers. Jilayne Kistner (2021), who has attended the holiday concert since its inception, eagerly anticipates catching up with old friends and singing joyful seasonal music. “The Songbook holiday show is something I have been looking forward to every year since it began,” she says, highlighting the bond she shares with fellow alumni. Jilayne is also excited about reuniting with her former Songbook music director, Mel Shore, whose mentorship has had a lasting impact on her.

"The fact that [Songbook] has stayed in touch and continued to provide so many opportunities for me and other alums is truly so special,” Jilayne continues. She describes the comfort and support she feels each time she returns, noting that the Songbook family’s connection transcends time. This sense of support is a common theme among alumni, underscoring the importance of the Songbook community in their lives, both on and off the stage.

Music, Growth, and Future Endeavors

While the holiday concert is an opportunity to revisit old memories, it’s also a chance to spotlight what alumni have been working on since their time in the Songbook Academy. Piper Murphy (2021), who recently starred in Revolt. She Said. Revolt Again by Alice Birch, is eager to perform once again with fellow alumni. She shared her excitement for her next project: Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812. “It’s a really difficult score and I’m excited to sink my teeth into it!” she says, also reflecting on how the Songbook Academy deepened her appreciation for classic tunes and changed the way she views music.

In a similar vein, Ava Lee (2024) has continued to excel in her first semester at Indiana University, where she is pursuing a degree in Music Education. She credits the Songbook Academy with helping her develop both her vocal technique and her understanding of music. “The Songbook Academy community is my safe space where I am able to create, learn, and grow with people who share the same passions as me,” Ava shares. She is also a proud member of the Singing Hoosiers, IU's acclaimed choir, and is thrilled to return to the Songbook stage this holiday season to reconnect with the Songbook family. “I can’t wait to celebrate my favorite season with the most talented people,” she adds.

The diverse achievements of Songbook alumni are a testament to the lasting impact of the program. As alumni return to the stage this holiday season, they bring with them a wealth of experiences, successes, and a shared love for the music that unites us all.

The Magic of Music During the Holidays

The magic of music is especially palpable during the holidays. The season brings with it a sense of togetherness, and for Songbook alumni, there is no better way to reconnect than by sharing the stage and performing timeless holiday classics. The two performances of Songbook Academy Sings the Songs of the Season will feature songs that have defined the holiday season for generations, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia, joy, and community spirit.

This year’s performance will also include a special moment featuring a piano that once belonged to Irving Berlin, the legendary songwriter behind White Christmas and Happy Holiday. The piano, recently added to the Songbook Library & Archives, serves as a powerful reminder of the connection between music, history, and the lasting legacy of the Great American Songbook.

Throughout the holiday season, we’ll be spotlighting our talented Songbook Academy alumni on our social media channels (@SongbookAcademy). Stay connected and follow along to see where they’ve been and what they’re up to as they continue to spread the magic of music in their respective careers. These performers embody the heart of the Songbook Academy—sharing a love of music and performance that transcends time, making this concert a truly special occasion to reflect on the power of music to bring us together.

Ticket Note:

While we are currently at capacity, we are offering a waitlist for those who wish to secure a spot should tickets become available. Additionally, we invite you to visit us day-of for any walk-up availability as we will do our best to accommodate all who wish to attend. Be sure to sign up for the waitlist to stay informed of any changes, and keep an eye on our website for more details on how to join us for this festive celebration.

Please call the Fifth Third Bank Box Office at 317.843.3800 to add your name to the waitlist.