The Journey of Joe Jenkins Sr. and the Magic City Music Academy

Joe Jenkins Sr., the founder of the Magic City Music Academy in Birmingham's Ensley neighborhood, vividly recalls the transformative moment when he first witnessed a boys’ choir perform.

"There were only about eight members, and I was amazed at the sound they produced when they opened their mouths and started singing," he reminisced.

This pivotal experience occurred in 1986 in Detroit, Michigan. Jenkins had invited the boys to perform at his church, and during their performance, he envisioned a choir of 20 to 25 Black boys dressed in tuxedos singing from the church choir stand. This vision stayed with him.

Later that year, Jenkins relocated to Birmingham, accepting a position as minister of music at New Pilgrim Baptist Church in the city's Titusville neighborhood. Bringing his vision along, he eventually established the Magic City Boys & Girls Choir, which celebrated its first reunion on June 21 at the Harbert Center in downtown Birmingham.

The Magic City Music Academy Experience

The Magic City Music Academy draws students from across the Birmingham metro area and nearby cities. Operating as an after-school program from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, the Academy boasts five staff members dedicated to teaching boys and girls aged 3 to 18. Parents can enroll their children for a fee of $25 for a weekly 30-minute lesson.

Parents of students who have attended the Academy and participated in the choir speak highly of Jenkins and the positive impact he has had on their children's lives.

Valerie Johnson, whose children Vernon and Kaylyn Faith were choir members, expresses deep admiration for Jenkins, whom she regards as a "community mentor."

Jenkins fondly recalls Vernon's powerful performances, particularly his rendition of the gospel song "On Time God," which Jenkins said could "bring the house down." Today, Vernon serves as a program support assistant at the Veterans Administration for the Social Work Service Line.

Another parent, Hermieon Carter, reflects on her decision to enroll her son, Kevin, in the choir as one of the best she ever made. Kevin, who began voice lessons at age 7, benefited greatly from the choir's structure, discipline, and exposure. Now 32, Kevin continues to sing and carries the lessons of respect and pride he gained from those formative years.

Achieving Prominence

Jenkins, now 69, recounts how his initial vision for the choir came to fruition. With the support of the board of directors, the Boys Choir members were outfitted in tuxedos when they started in 1993. This move significantly enhanced the choir’s image, enabling them to transition from local performances to international stages.

In 1999, the choir traveled to Paris, France, to participate in the Children’s Choral Festival, performing alongside choirs from around the world. Their performances included churches and the UNESCO headquarters, marking a significant achievement.

The following year, the choir traveled to Genoa, Italy, for the International Jubilee Choir Festival. Jenkins fondly remembers their return flight to Birmingham, during which the choir performed "The Lord’s Prayer" on the plane, leaving a lasting impression on all who heard them.