Shubhlean Kaur ‘27
Sep 12, 2025
For the 2025–2026 school year, the iconic Jim Brinson has returned as Director of Chorale and of the a capella groups Magalia and Octet. He also continues in his long-standing role as Director of Chapel Music. Beginning his 23rd year at the Academy, Brinson has consistently shown unwavering dedication to Mercersburg’s music department.
Many are excited about his return as the director. When asked about his feelings toward returning, Brinson joked, “Exhausting!” adding, “This year has really reminded me that this is hard. But it’s the beginning of the year; things are always harder. I have faith that things will settle down soon.” In the past few years, Brinson had been working part-time, so the new school year has reminded him of the daunting quality of Mercersburg’s chaotic daily life, not just for students, but for faculty as well.
Chorale and the a capella groups have experienced many ups and downs over the past couple of years due to a variety of scheduling conflicts, shifting leadership. The school employed different choral directors in each of the last two years. Consequently, students have become less motivated to join Chorale. However, music still plays a significant role in the life of the school, not solely for the singers, but also for the community as a whole, and maintaining this tradition remains a priority. Brinson said, “The school has asked me to build the Chorale program back up again to make people want to sing. I want people to know that they're welcome, appreciated, and valued.”
Brinson aims to increase meeting days for a capella groups in order to produce efficiency during practice hours. Last year, the a capella groups had more than 20 singers in total, and Brinson plans to restore Octet’s to eight and Magalia to nine. To be more inclusive, Brinson plans on allowing upper middlers and seniors to audition for Magalia or Octet even if they are not enrolled in Chorale. By doing this Brinson hopes to promote more flexibility for students, specifically upperclassmen, who want to sing but cannot due to their busy schedules.
“I have a good feeling with the Chorale kids. They want to be there. This is a good start,” said the ever-hopeful Brinson.