Many Voices: Mechanics Hall Youth Singers

About MVYS Artistic Director Reagan G. Paras  Reagan G. Paras, serves as an Associate Professor for Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. A passionate conductor, singer, and educator, he has directed performance tours across the United States and abroad. In addition to being the Artistic Director for Many Voices: Mechanics Hall Youth Singers, he serves as Music Director for The Salisbury Singers, one of the premier choral ensembles in MA. Throughout the summer, he conducts the Kodály Music Institute Choir, which is comprised of music educators from across the globe. Reagan was recently elected to represent the United States as a Conducting Fellow for the American Choral Directors Association’s International Choral Exchange Program. In summer 2024, he conducted across Europe with American Music Abroad performing in esteemed venues in Hungary, Czech Republic, and Austria.

About MVYS Managing Director Christon Carney 

Christon Carney is a multi-faceted tenor, educator, and arts advocate based in Worcester, MA. A native of Nashville, TN, he holds a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the New England Conservatory and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Lipscomb University. He made his operatic debut with Nashville Opera and has since performed with organizations including Boston Lyric Opera, the Nashville Symphony, the Rhode Island Civic Chorale and Orchestra and others. He is also a member of the American Spiritual Ensemble, performing repertoire rooted in African American spirituals, art song, and cultural storytelling. His work has been recognized for its artistic and community impact, including being named a 40 Under 40 honoree by the Worcester Business Journal.

In addition to his performance career, Christon is a dedicated educator and community leader committed to access-centered music education. He teaches voice at JMS School of Singing and Pakachoag Music School and serves as Education and Outreach Manager at Mechanics Hall. In this role, he is the Managing Director of the Many Voices: Mechanics Hall Youth Singers, where he works to build welcoming, high-quality musical experiences, fostering belonging, artistic growth, and meaningful musical experiences for young people across Worcester County.