For The Love of Music: Falling Creek Middle School’s Chorus Program Helps Students Find Their Purpose

Everyone is looking for their purpose — finding your niche — something you enjoy dedicating time and energy towards. 

For some students at Falling Creek Middle School, singing in the choir fulfills their search for identity and community.

Guided by esteemed choir director, Willie Griffin, students have a safe space to express themselves through music, find their talents, and bond over shared interests. 

Mr. Griffin took the position of Choir Director at Falling Creek Middle School in 2019 — with over 30 years of experience under his belt, he has had a great impact on the program and an even stronger one on his students.

“Music allows young people to grow academically, socially, and emotionally all at once, and being part of that journey is incredibly meaningful,” said Griffin.

He understands how the intersection of music and community can shape one’s life and can provide a sense of stability to those who lack it at home, and to those who excel in the arts rather than core subjects.

‘“For many students, these programs become the reason they feel connected to school. When students feel connected, they attend more, behave better, and achieve more…” Griffin said. “For students in underfunded or underserved schools, access to the arts isn’t just enrichment—it's opportunity.”

Besides singing and learning about music, chorus students have the opportunity to travel for competitions, showing students they are a part of something even greater.

For eighth graders, Malaysia Giggetts, Jaziyah Thompson, and Aziah Harrison, competing at Busch Gardens and Six Flags has been some of their fondest memories from the choir program.

Aziah and Jaziyah have been involved in choir for about four years, and Malaysia’s been involved for 5 years. Meeting new friends in choir has motivated them to stay in the program along with their love of music.

The three students all emphasized their love of the bus rides to the competitions. 

“The bus rides going to and from competitions are my favorite memories…having fun and cutting up on the bus,” said Aziah.

The talented Aziah has earned two soloist awards for his stellar performance at Six Flags and Busch Gardens — an incredible achievement for the students and the FCMS choir itself. 

It’s always a pleasure to receive recognition for your talents, especially during your formative years. 

According to Mr. Griffin, the FCMS choir program would not be what it is without the help of Start 1 Spark. 

“Start 1 Spark has been a genuine blessing to our program. Their support has helped us provide opportunities that many of our students would not have been able to experience otherwise,” said Griffin.

Start 1 Spark has provided new sheet music, covered transportation costs and dining, and overall has allowed FCMS choir to expand its opportunities without the financial limitations. 

Students at underfunded schools deserve the same opportunities to find their interests as everyone else — thanks to Start 1 Spark, FCMS chorus has been able to expand and thrive.