Ling (Lynne) Guo is known to many Newton residents as the director of the Boston Eastern Heritage Chorus (BEHC), a musical group in Newton for over two decades, based in Newton’s Chinese Language School. BEHC recently returned from performing in the International Choir Festival Held in Tuscany.
While not a resident of Newton, Lynne has expressed her strong connection to Newton through serving as the director of the BEHC and getting to know the many Newton residents among the choir members. Lynne also adds “many musical endeavors” have made Newton a special place for her. She also is the Artistic Director for the Asian American Day Festival (AADF), to be held on September 7 at the Boston Common, and BEHC will perform there.
In May, BEHC was invited to apply to participate in the International Choir Festival in Tuscany, Italy. The festival provided a unique platform for the choir members to perform – not only an opportunity to showcase their musical talents but also a chance to learn and be inspired by the diverse styles and techniques of other choirs. The picturesque setting of Florence, Tuscany, Italy, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, added a unique charm to the event, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Lynne highlights that the Boston Eastern Heritage Chorus’s recent participation in the International Choir Festival of Tuscany brought some international acclaim. From its experience there, the BEHC will bring what Lynne calls a captivating blend of the famous Italian song “O Sole Mio” and Chinese folk song of “Jasmine Flower” to the upcoming AADF.
The AADF has been a nonprofit organization since 2010 and has produced its annual festival for 13 years, with notable government officials such as senators and the Mayor of Boston often attending and speaking during the event. This year marks the 14th celebration, and the festival attracts approximately 10,000 participants and spectators annually.
Lynne’s involvement with the AADF stems from her long-standing dedication to promoting cultural diversity through music, which has spanned over two decades in the Greater Boston area. Her musical activities extend beyond BEHC to include various choral groups in Boston. Lynne’s extensive experience as a choir conductor, music director, and pianist, along with previous collaborations with diverse cultural organizations, culminated in her invitation to this role.
“I am honored to contribute to a festival that celebrates the richness of Asian-American culture,” she says.
As the artistic director for the Asian American Day Festival, Lynne is responsible for curating a diverse and engaging lineup of performers that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Asian-American community and more. She works closely with the organizing committee to plan and execute the festival’s artistic vision, oversee rehearsals and performances, and ensure that the event runs smoothly.
Recruiting and selecting performers is a comprehensive process that includes reviewing submissions from various artists and groups, reaching out to well-known and emerging talents in the community, and considering recommendations. Lynne aims to create a balanced program that showcases a wide range of artistic expressions, from traditional performances to contemporary works.
Lynne’s favorite part of the Asian American Day Festival is the opportunity to celebrate and showcase the rich tapestry of Asian-American culture through diverse performances. The performers are largely from the U.S., with Asian backgrounds, each bringing unique artistic talents. The festival also strives to include many artistic groups and business vendors from diverse communities. It features a variety of performances – such as singing, dancing, acrobatics, magic shows, martial arts, choral, and instrumentals – and brings together diverse artists, each contributing their unique styles and traditions. Lynne finds the experience “incredibly rewarding to see the audience’s enthusiastic response” to the festival and to be part of an event that fosters community and cultural pride.
Lynne finds that all of the groups that perform at the AADF are unique in their own ways.
“The Asian American Day Festival at Boston Common serves as a dynamic platform not only for performers but also for various business vendors and visitors. The festival creates a vibrant marketplace where local businesses can showcase their products and services, offering attendees a unique experience. It also provides an excellent opportunity for networking and building relationships within the community. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural festivities, enjoy diverse performances, and explore the offerings from different vendors, making it a comprehensive celebration of Asian-American heritage and community spirit,” Lynne said, “It’s an honor to be part of an event that not only entertains but also educates and unites people from different backgrounds. I and the committee encourage more people (including vendors) to support, to come and experience the vibrant performances and rich cultural offerings at the festival.”
Center stage performers, including the BEHC, will appear at the festival throughout the day and will be broadcasted live to the world in real time on YouTube and other media platforms. People who are interested in joining the BEHC can sign up here.
Chloe Yu is a Fig City News intern and a rising sophomore at Emerson College.
