For some families, traditions are passed down through recipes, holiday celebrations, or treasured heirlooms. For the Scott family, music has become their legacy, with the San Diego Children’s Choir playing a special role in that story across three generations.
Their story began with one simple decision.
"Just prior to the summer of 1991, Henry was eight years old," his mother Patricia recalls. "I had acquired a list of possible summer activities. Henry picked singing."
It was a small choice that would become a lifelong passion, and one day inspire the next generation.
A Childhood That Left a Lasting Impression
Henry always loved music, so joining the San Diego Children's Choir (SDCC) felt like a natural fit.
"I always loved music and singing," he remembers. "I spent a few years in Preparatory Choir before joining what was then known as the Concert Choir as a ten-year-old boy soprano in the fall of 1993."
Those early years shaped far more than his musicianship.
Henry remembers SDCC founder Polly Campbell as a remarkable music educator whose dedication left a lasting impression on him as a young singer and whose expectations challenged every child to strive for excellence.
"I have vivid memories of her leading the Choir with poise, grace, and grit," he says.
One memory has stayed with him for more than three decades. During a concert in Balboa Park, Polly fell from an elevated platform while conducting. Rather than stopping the performance, she quickly stood up and continued leading the choir.
"Polly showed us commitment to something bigger than yourself by example."
Henry’s mother remembers those same qualities from a parent's perspective.
"Polly Campbell was a devoted educator who had high expectations for each chorister," she says. "She instilled in each young mind what it meant to be part of something larger than themselves. She expected 110% effort, and the choristers enthusiastically delivered."
Henry remained part of SDCC under Polly Campbell's tutelage through high school before continuing his love of singing in the Liturgical Choir at the University of Notre Dame.
The lessons Henry learned through music extended well beyond rehearsal.
Music That Opened the World
Among Henry's many cherished experiences, one remains especially unforgettable: performing Carl Orff's Carmina Burana at London's Royal Albert Hall under the direction of Sir David Willcocks.
"It was so special as a ten-year child on his very first trip abroad (and away from mom and dad!)," he shared.
Henry vividly remembers performing in the historic venue as Sir David complimented Polly.
"He told Polly how 'well trained and well behaved' we were," Henry remembers. "It was also our last night in the United Kingdom, and we were awarded with ice cream."
While the international performances and musical achievements were extraordinary, Henry says the greatest gifts of SDCC extended far beyond the stage.
"SDCC taught me the joy of human expression through music," he says. "It bonded me to individuals from diverse backgrounds; it prepared me for life by instilling discipline and the values of commitment, hard work, and punctuality. It enlivened a divine spark of connection to others, and to the world around me.
Those lessons stayed with him long after his final concert.
Watching the Legacy Continue
Today, nearly 35 years after Henry first walked into an SDCC rehearsal, another child in his family is discovering the same joy of singing.
Chorister Preston recently completed his second year in Preparatory Choir, after spending two years in the Choir's Early Years program. Having been part of our community since he was just four years old, he's now preparing for another exciting season.
For Henry's sister Ellen and her husband, Will, watching their son Preston join the same organization that played such an important role in Henry's childhood has been especially meaningful.
"It felt really special," they shared. "Henry absolutely loved his years in the Choir, and Ellen remembers attending many rehearsals and concerts over the years. When Preston joined, we felt a definite sense of nostalgia, but also excitement to see him begin his own journey.
"We knew what a positive influence the Choir had been for Henry and hoped Preston would find the same sense of belonging and joy."
Those hopes have already begun to come true.
Today, Preston is creating memories of his own while growing in confidence as both a singer and a young person.
"We've seen him grow in confidence this year, both on and off the stage," Ellen and Will share. "He's become more comfortable performing in front of others—especially big crowds like the Padres stadium—and has formed friendships with children he might not have met otherwise. It's been wonderful to watch him take pride in being part of something bigger than himself."
As parents, they see the Choir as much more than an extracurricular activity.
"We're grateful that Preston has the opportunity to be part of an organization that teaches music while helping children develop confidence, responsibility, and a sense of community. Those lessons extend far beyond the stage."
The Song Continues
Looking back, Henry's mother says the San Diego Children's Choir gave her son a place to flourish.
"SDCC was and is a marvelous place for youth to flourish," she reflects. "There is a tradition of excellence and high standards that encourages these fortunate young people to thrive and share their love of music with others throughout their lives."
Today, watching her grandson continue that tradition is especially meaningful.
“Having my grandson, Preston Pridgen, follow in his Uncle Henry’s footsteps is a blessing. My husband and I are so grateful to be part of the wonderful community of SDCC for many years to come.”
More than three decades ago, Patricia handed her children a list of summer activities and asked each of them to choose two. Henry chose swimming and singing. None of them could have imagined that one small decision would grow into a family tradition spanning generations.
Today, Preston is writing the next chapter of that family tradition as he discovers his own love of music through the San Diego Children's Choir.
Their family's story reflects the lasting impact the San Diego Children's Choir has had on generations of young singers: a place where every child is welcomed, encouraged to find their voice, and inspired to reach their full potential. By bringing out the potential in every child through high-quality music education, SDCC is helping foster a better world through music, one young voice, one family, and one generation at a time.
If you know a child who loves to sing, we'd love to welcome them to the San Diego Children's Choir. Learn more about joining the Choir today.