Phoenix Boys Choir's artistic director says the group saved his life

By Lauren Gilger
Published: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 11:36am
Updated: Friday, December 15, 2023 - 8:11am

Audio icon Download mp3 (21.99 MB)

The Phoenix Boys Choir.
Phoenix Boys Choir
The Phoenix Boys Choir.

'Tis the season for Christmas music. And, whether that means Mariah Carey to you or Handel’s Messiah, Herbert Washington is here for it.

Herbert is the Phoenix Boys Choir's artistic director. And while the longtime Arizona institution might be best known for their classical renditions this time of year, its newest director felt it was important to take the choir in a more modern direction, focused on cultural awareness and camaraderie.

Herbert Washington
Amber Victoria Singer/KJZZ
Herbert Washington in KJZZ's studio.

The Show went out to a recent rehearsal for their annual holiday concert series to get a taste.

Washington's story with the Phoenix Boys choir begins long before he took on that role. He grew up in the Phoenix Boys Choir and he said, in many ways, it saved his life.

More stories from KJZZ

Education The Show Arts + Entertainment