"It gave me a group of people to lean on, helped me develop my identity and sense of self, and added extra layers and dimension to my musical skills." — Kristin Knox (née Johnson)

Some families pass down heirlooms. Others pass down stories or traditions. For the Johnson family, one legacy has rung loud and clear through the years: music — more specifically, music made and memories formed through Charlotte Choir School.

As some of the program's earliest members, siblings Erik Johnson, Mark Johnson, and Kristin Knox have each carried their experiences with them well into adulthood — from concert halls and cathedrals to pulpits, therapy rooms, and symphony stages.

We caught up with all three siblings to reflect on their time at Charlotte Choir School, how it shaped them, and the lasting imprint it left on their lives.

From the Beginning

The Johnson siblings were among the earliest choristers at Charlotte Choir School — Erik, a founding member of the Boys Choir in 1993, Mark, who sang through the late 90s, and Kristin, who joined when the Girls Choir began around 1998.

For each of them, it all started with family. Their mother, Kay Johnson, helped found the program alongside Ben Outen, making the Choir School not just an extracurricular activity, but something deeply woven into the fabric of their upbringing.

“I think I had to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ at my audition,” Kristin recalls. “I was VERY nervous!”

But those nerves were short-lived. What followed was nearly a decade of music, touring, growth, and connection.

Notes That Still Resonate

When asked what they loved most about the program, each sibling had a slightly different answer — but a consistent theme quickly emerged: the combination of musical excellence, character formation, and community.

“I liked learning music and executing it well,” Erik says simply. His quiet precision carried him from those early rehearsals to roles as a violist in the Salisbury and Union Symphonies — and later, back to CCS as an adult helper with the MasterSingers for over 15 years.

For Mark, the impact was deeply personal — and surprisingly practical. “I’m a lead pastor now, so I stand in front of hundreds of people each week. Thanks to CCS, the crowd part of that equation is no concern for me.” He draws similarities between some of the crossover skills needed in musical performance and preaching — both requiring poise, preparation, and presence. “Preaching isn’t performing, but there are overlapping skills.”

Kristin’s reflections are equally heartfelt. “It’s not so much a memory as a feeling,” she says. “When I think about the Choir School, feelings of belonging, friendship, importance, and acceptance come to the surface.” Now a board-certified music therapist, she uses music daily to help clients grow and heal. “It’s the tool I use to help others.”

Favorite Moments & Core Memories

The Johnsons carry vivid memories of performances that left an impression. For Mark, it was singing a solo in Mozart’s Laudate Dominum inside St. Peter’s Episcopal Church — “an absolutely gorgeous piece of music,” he remembers. For Kristin, it was singing in cathedrals across England with the MasterSingers — a dream for any young vocalist.

One memory that stands out for all is the joy of touring. “Touring gave me a love for travel I still have today,” Mark reflects. “We sang in ballparks, traveled to Canada and England — it was a huge blessing.”

Even years later, those melodies linger.

“I still occasionally listen to Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” Mark recalls how much he loved performing the musical with the choir. “I had an absolute blast.”

Beyond the Music

The music may have started it all — but the impact of CCS extended far beyond the notes on a page.

For Erik, continuing to engage with music in adulthood — especially in mentoring roles — refined not only his musicianship but also his character. “Being a good example for the MasterSingers helped me grow as an adult.”

For Kristin, the program helped solidify her sense of identity during formative years. “It taught me responsibility and integrity,” she says — values she now strives to pass on to her own children.

And for Mark, it provided lessons in public speaking, discipline, and confidence that laid the groundwork for his vocation.

Advice to Today’s Choristers

All three siblings agree: Charlotte Choir School is an experience that stays with you.

“Cherish the relationships and opportunities,” says Mark. “The people you’ll meet and the places you’ll go are special.”

“Discipline, friendship, and musical skills,” Kristin echoes. “Those are the things I hope today’s choristers carry with them.”

And Erik? He hopes choristers recognize the value of practice. “Being prepared for what you’ve committed to makes all of life easier.”

A Legacy That Lasts

The Johnson siblings may have taken different paths — from sacred spaces to symphony halls to therapy clinics — but they all carry the same core: the lessons, memories, and music of Charlotte Choir School.

As alumni, they reflect not just on what they gave to the program, but what the program gave them — and continues to give, years later.

And though the songs may have changed, one thing remains the same: the power of music, discipline, and community to shape lives for the better — one note, one voice, and one generation at a time.

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