Why I Joined

We recently asked members -- called Brothers -- why they joined the Apollo Club of Boston. Here are some of the answers:

“In a few words: I enjoy singing and joining a men's chorale seemed a good way to perpetuate my avocation. The fellowship and comaraderie with the guys on a weekly basis also provides inspiration. Having the use of the HMA facility on Chestnut St is like frosting on the cake.”

“My reason for being a member of Apollo is neither profound nor complex. I enjoy the singing opportunity it provides. The rehearsals are at least as, if not more enjoyable than the concerts. The relatively simple style, fostered by Flossie and Rob, help create the appropriate ambiance.”

“I joined the Apollo Club because I enjoyed singing with a men’s glee club in college. I look forward to singing with the Club for a long time because of the warm welcome I received, the relaxed yet serious way in which we work on our pieces, the varied and interesting backgrounds of my friendly colleagues, the professionalism of our director and accompanist, and the pleasure we clearly give to our audiences.”

“I am so pleased to have found a group of men with whom it was so easy to become accepted, doing something I have always loved. Due to cardiac drugs I don't have the voice I once had but the spirit is in full swing thanks to a great bunch of guys and a Flossie/Rob combination that can only make me smile.”

“Choral singing provides salve for the soul, balm for the brain and a pure joy which nourishes the spirit within a warm environment of fellowship. No other human activity is endowed with such attributes (with the possible exception of sex).”

“I joined the club because I have a love for music and singing (which Flossie pointed out as the most important criterion), and love the idea of community service especially for the senior and less privileged populations. Also, I love tradition, and I love Boston, and I think it is important to preserve our heritage.”

"This story shall the good man teach his son;

And not a day shall ere go by,

From this day to the ending of the world,

But we in it shall be remember'd;

We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;

For he to-day that sings with me

Shall be my brother;

And gentlemen in America now a-bed

Shall think themselves accursed they were not here,

And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks

That sang with us upon this day. "

(liberally lifted from Shakespeare's Henry V)