Spotlight on the BIS Choir Program
- bcemarketing
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Choir Director John Collaros inspires confidence, teamwork, and joy in student performers.
The BIS Choir took the stage in the Burlingame Intermediate School auditorium on the evening of Monday, December 8, for its annual Winter Performance, marking a joyful showcase of student talent and the strength of the school’s music community.
With two back-to-back concerts, the work of students of all levels, from beginner to advanced, were highlighted. The first concert featured performances by Sixth Grade Choir, Beginning Orchestra, and Advanced Orchestra, each presenting a varied repertoire of expressions. The second concert began with a Combined Choir performance, after which four ensembles, including the Seventh and Eighth grade Trojan Choir, Seventh grade Concert Choir, Eighth grade Harmony Choir, and the Accents Choir, took turns performing with techniques taught and practiced in classes.
At the heart of the program is BIS Music Specialist John Collaros, a dedicated educator, professional choral director, and mentor who has helped shape the musical lives of Burlingame students for more than 13 years. His choir program, supported by the Burlingame Community for Education Foundation (BCE), opens doors and provides unique experiences to students. Sixth Grade Choir is open to all students, and the advanced Accents Choir is for seventh and eighth grade performances. Students perform in Winter and Spring concerts each year, with opportunities to try out for solo roles, as well as at district events and festivals. Last spring, the BIS Combined Choir earned first place with a Superior rating at the Music in the Parks festival, an achievement that reflects both student commitment and Collaros’s leadership.
Seventh grader Luka Payiatas is among the many students inspired by Collaros and the program. “Mr. Collaros’s confidence and support of students helped me have the courage to try out for a concert soloist role,” he said. “He is an engaging and fun teacher who introduces us to different types of music and gives us a chance to express ourselves through song choices.”
Collaros brings more than twenty years of professional experience to BIS. His own journey in music began in middle school orchestra, where he played viola. He continued with the viola through high school, performing with the Albuquerque Youth Symphony, and discovered a love of singing through his high school show choir. “Music created a safe space for me when I needed it the most,” he shared. “I wanted to become a teacher so I could create that same music family for students who might need it the most.”
He went on to study voice and earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from New Mexico State University, later completing a Master’s Degree in Education, Curriculum and Instruction. Today he directs both choral and orchestra programs at BIS and serves as the music director for the school’s annual musical.
When he first arrived in Burlingame, Collaros did not anticipate staying long. The community quickly changed that. “I stayed because of the community. It is so wonderful to work in a loving place that values arts education and works tirelessly to make sure every student has access to art and music,” he said.He believes performing arts shape students in lasting ways.
“Music allows students to be creative and learn to work together in a dynamic team. My hope is that through music they develop a softer heart, learn patience and respect for one another, and understand that everyone has something to bring to the table.” -Music Specialist John Collaros
Collaros is grateful for the families who contribute to BCE and make these programs possible. “Burlingame students are special and that is because they have access to so many different experiences during school. From TK through eighth grade, the programs BCE supports help students create, dream, and discover something new about themselves.”
When he is not teaching, Collaros enjoys walking his dog around the city, traveling, and attending as many Broadway shows as he can. He also directs the Burlingame satellite location for the Ragazzi Boys Chorus of Silicon Valley.
Sixth grade parent and BCE President Elect Pooja Shah was in the audience cheering on the BIS singers, and was so proud of their performances and all the choir program has achieved. "Watching singers and musicians grow from early elementary school through middle school is a powerful testament to the impact of a strong, early music education. The talent on display was remarkable, and seeing these young artists in action was truly inspiring. This is what BCE supporters make possible in Burlingame!” BCE funding ensures that robust music and performing arts programs remain a core part of every BSD student’s education. Collaros’s work, and the students who thrive under his guidance, demonstrate what is possible when a community invests in creativity, confidence, and connection.
How You Can Help the BIS Choir Program
Funding the music instruction in all Burlingame public schools is one of many ways that donations to BCE help make our schools dynamic communities that engage students beyond the basic curriculum. BCE relies on generous support from parents, businesses and community members to meet its grant goals. Donations to BCE provide our schools with funding for enhancing the educational experience for every child in Burlingame. If you haven’t given yet this year, our suggested donation amount is $2,000 per student, but every dollar makes a difference. Consider joining our Scholars Circle by making a donation of $4,000 or more.
