Catholic Community Choir Celebrates 15 Years of Music, Faith and Fun!

By Holly Stupak

Jeffrey Braconnier was a senior in high school when he had the idea for Catholic Community Choir (CCC), an organization that could bring children together from different parishes and provide them with unique and engaging perform ing arts experiences. Fifteen years later, CCC has grown tremendously, highlighting hundreds of children each year in Delaware County and beyond.

For the past 15 years, CCC has provided memorable musical theater experiences through its summer camp programs, public singing appearances and social and service-oriented opportunities, all while encouraging self discovery and growth. “It’s been a place where stu dents can shine both on and off the stage,” said Jeff, who founded the organization in 2007.

A Springfield High School alum, Jeff was active in musical theater when he was growing up. By the time he was a senior in high school, he was directing a children’s choir. He enjoyed working with the choir, but what he really wanted to do was give these local students the experience to be on the stage and perform. His idea was to bring these choir members from three Springfield parishes (St. Kevin’s, St. Francis and Holy Cross) together, which ultimately became the Catholic Community Choir. “What started as a small and mighty choir became bigger than I imagined,” he said.

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After Jeff graduated from high school, CCC was really taking off. With the support of many founding volunteers, advisors and supportive friends and family, he was able to turn what was just an idea into a career. He also brought his sister Aimee-Kate Mooney on board, whose own experience at the Cathie Collins School of Dance would be an asset to the CCC organization. Aimee-Kate now serves as the Vice President and Executive Director of CCC and as a producer of its musical productions. Aside from Jeff and his sister, behind the scenes at CCC also includes plenty of volunteers from parents to CCC alumni.

Since it began, the CCC has been offering children from preschool through ninth grade the opportunity to be successful both artistically and personally. “Whether it's through music, ministry or performing arts, CCC focuses on creativity and each child as an individual,” said Jeff.

Aside from the 57 musicals they’ve produced, they offer numerous other programs including: Shine Night Out, service and ministry opportunities, high school leadership and college internship programs, public singing appearances and summer camp. They partner with Cardinal O’Hara High School where their musicals, camps and other programs are held.

Jeff explained that after students have completed CCC, they have the opportunity to give back to the organization through service as an internship or as part of the summer leadership program.

“As CCC continues to grow, we have watched many previous members go on to study music, performing arts, education and beyond,” he said proudly.

Although the organization is rooted in Catholic faith, anyone is encouraged to join the program regardless of religious beliefs or background. “All children and young adults interested in music, performing arts, service and ministry are welcome!” he added. “CCC is truly a family and that is really our mantra.”

What also sets CCC apart from other programs is that students can get involved in musical theater at a young age. “Many theater programs are geared toward high school students,” said Jeff. “Giving the students the opportunity to try musical theater as young as elementary school gives them a great foundation. It’s also a great way to make friends and meet new people.”

To celebrate its 15-year milestone, CCC recently held A Night To Shine On at Anthony’s Paxon Hollow, bringing past and present families together to celebrate with food, music and raffles. “It was fun to celebrate the many productions we have had throughout the years and the many faces and voices of our stage,” said Jeff. Congrats to CCC on 15 years of providing children in our community with programs that focus on faith and fun! The CCC’s Spring production of Matilda Jr. opens this month, where you can come and watch them shine! For more information about CCC and their upcoming schedule of musical productions, visit www.CatholicCommunityChoir.com. N S