February 25, 2026

Alumni Spotlight: Nia Legrand — Ten seasons. Three choirs. One enduring legacy

Staff member, Hunter Rigsby

For over 30 years, we’ve watched young voices grow into confident leaders, innovators, and world-changers. Nia Legrand is one of those voices.

From her first audition to performing in England’s soaring cathedrals, Nia’s story is a testament to what happens when commitment meets opportunity and music meets heart.

The Beginning of a Decade

Nia joined Charlotte Choir School after her elementary school music teacher encouraged her to audition. She remembers being nervous walking into that audition room. But like so many of our choristers discover, the nerves were simply the prelude.

“I had nothing to worry about.”

That audition marked the start of ten seasons with Charlotte Choir School. Over the years, Nia sang in Town Choir, Tour Choir, and MasterSingers—each ensemble shaping her musicianship and strengthening her confidence.

A World Opened by Song

One of Nia’s most vivid memories is from 2019: traveling to Durham, England, for a residency at Durham Cathedral.

The kind of space where history echoes off ancient stone walls. The kind of performance that lifts young singers into something bigger than themselves.

She shared that she loved all of the performances in England.

For Nia, travel wasn’t just about seeing new places. It was about impact. “What I loved most was being able to travel and impact different communities with music.”

That’s the heart of who we are. Voices raised. Communities connected. Perspectives widened.

Skills That Stay With You

Nia credits Charlotte Choir School with growing her musicianship and expanding her worldview. Beyond the notes and languages memorized, she gained something deeper.

Commitment.
Consistency.
Perspective.

She still uses hand signs when she sings solfège.

That muscle memory isn’t just technique. It’s foundation. It’s training that lasts long after the final bow.

The Music Continues

After graduating, Nia continued her choral journey as a member of the Spelman College Glee Club for four years.

Music didn’t end when she left our rehearsal room. It expanded.

Today, Nia lives in Washington, DC, where she works in the IT field. Analytical. Focused. Innovative. And still shaped by the discipline and collaboration she developed as a chorister.

Because here’s what we know: rigorous music education builds more than musicians. It builds thinkers. Leaders. Teammates. Professionals.

A Living Legacy

“I am happy to be a part of a legacy that is continuing to grow and I love to see young choristers grow with music.”

Legacy isn’t just history. It’s momentum.

It’s today’s choristers encouraging one another in rehearsal. It’s alumni watching from afar, cheering them on. It’s a city filled with song because young people were given something excellent and were trusted to rise to it.

To Today’s Choristers

Nia hopes current students continue to grow their music skills and encourage one another throughout the program.

Because what you’re building here isn’t just a concert season. It’s a decade of confidence. It’s friendships that stretch across oceans. It’s standing in a cathedral halfway around the world and realizing your voice belongs there.

Nia’s story is proof: a love of music can take you far.

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