Article provided by Texas Center for Arts + Academics.
Texas Center for Arts + Academics (TCA+A), formerly Texas Boys Choir, Inc., is thrilled to commemorate significant anniversaries this year. Not only are we celebrating 40 years as members of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, but also honor the 80th anniversary of our founding choir, Texas Boys Choir (TBC).
Established in Denton in 1946 by George Bragg, TBC toured extensively across Texas, the United States, and internationally, gaining recognition as a prominent choir. In 1957, the organization had achieved such prominence that several major cities competed for its relocation. Fort Worth emerged victorious with a substantial grant and a commitment of civic support. On November 22, 1963, the boys had the privilege of performing for President Kennedy right before his trip to Dallas. In 1966 and 1968, the Choir earned two GRAMMY Awards for Best Choral Performance (other than Opera) and later went on to receive three George Washington Honor Medal Awards and a Bronze Award from the International Film and Television Festival. In 1985, two wonderful things happened for the Choir: they visited China to collaborate with Igor Stravinsky, a pivotal and influential composer of the 20th century, AND back in Fort Worth they became a member of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce.
“Celebrating 40 years as a Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce member is a meaningful milestone for Texas Center for Arts + Academics. Fort Worth is a city that truly values community, creativity, and education, and we’re proud to be an active part of it. This city has supported and inspired generations of young artists and scholars, and we’re honored to continue growing and giving back in the place we proudly call home.” Torie Skinner, TCA+A Development Director
In 2001, TCA+A opened Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts (FWAFA), its first audition-only public charter school and its current home, serving 3rd – 12th grade. The introduction of FWAFA enabled students to enhance their artistic abilities, fostering an atmosphere that supports academic growth and fine arts disciplines, including Theatre, Dance, Visual Arts, and, naturally, Choir. Additional choirs and performance groups were established that are now in high demand, including Singing Girls of Texas, Children’s Choir of Texas, and Academy Singers. During national and international tours, our students embody the wonderful residents of Fort Worth, drawing attention to our city and attracting potential tourists. Within the city, our various organizations perform at both small and large events, such as the 2025 Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and the April 2024 NASCAR race.
TCA+A opened a second district in 2007, Texas School of the Arts (TeSA), serving students from kindergarten – 5th grade. Its arts-focused curriculum lays the groundwork for essential skills, including critical thinking, innovation, collaboration, and communication, equipping children for future success across various fields. TeSA is recognized in DFW as a leading academic choice, making it an excellent option for parents of students with creative talents.
"Texas Center for Arts + Academics (TCA+A) is proud to offer students and families in the Dallas-Fort Worth area an exceptional educational experience that integrates the arts. Through its premier schools, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts and Texas School of the Arts, TCA+A provides an unique opportunity for students to excel academically while exploring their talents in choir, dance, theatre, and visual arts." Dr. Anika Perkins, TCA+A President/CEO & Superintendent
This year's anniversaries signify TCA+A's enduring presence and ongoing commitment to the Fort Worth community. In the same way that the city of Fort Worth first embraced Texas Boys Choir, TCA+A remains devoted to the community by participating in the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce and fulfilling various civic responsibilities. TCA+A expresses our gratitude to the community for its support over the past 80 years and encourages them to continue believing in our students and their limitless potential.
TCA+A operates as a non-profit organization that depends on governmental and community support to maintain its fine arts offerings, since both schools are funded through public funds from TEA. We encourage those interested in and capable of contributing to artistic programs, such as those led by TCA+A, to explore the significant, positive impact we are making within our community. For further details on how to donate, please visit our website.
To learn more about the Texas Center for Arts + Academics, including our schools, conservatories, and the application process, kindly visit ArtsAcademics.org
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