Songs For Smiles (SFS) is a service club that offers musical performances in the local community. Founded in 2009 by Esther Weoo ’12 and Ms. Sarah Thames, former instructor in English and director of theatre, SFS seeks to promote students’ love for music and volunteering. 

SFS gives monthly recitals at local senior living communities, including Noble Horizons, Sharon Health Care, and Geer Village. Students also perform weekly at two local Sunday church services. Club members also offer free music lessons on campus to the children of faculty and staff. 

Ms. Caroline Kenny-Burchfield, director of community partnerships and faculty advisor to SFS, said, “It is a privilege to work with such talented student musicians who wish to share their impressive skills to bring joy to the community. 

SFS is as much about performing concerts as about offering experiences that uplift and entertain their audiences. Music is their instrument of service!” SFS also organizes charity concerts in collaboration with acapella groups, chamber ensembles, and bands at the school. These events raise funds for local charity associations like the Corner Food Pantry. 

Last year’s concert at the Town Grove raised over $1,000 and gathered approximately 100 different food items to be donated to members of our community. Boffi Lin ’24, co-head of SFS, said, “I am proud of returners who continue to volunteer to perform, as well as new students who are joining us for the first time. Regardless of their skill level, each performer can spread the joy of music.” 

The club is currently organizing its next performance, which will benefit the Corner Food Pantry and be held at the Town Grove in November.