Touch Of Class Choir w/ Gregory Cole

Every high school has an adult who has made it their life’s mission to help young people in every way that they can–– a teacher who brings an extra lunch for a hungry student, or a counselor who helps kids with their homework at recess. This week’s guest is one of those people. Mr. Gregory Cole is a musician, vocal and instrumental instructor, music director and educator who has gone the extra mile for kids in the Bay Area for over 40 years.

Having taught and directed music at numerous Bay Area schools and churches, Cole’s greatest endeavour began in 1984 at the Sala and Phillip Burton Academic High school where he founded the Touch of Class Choir (TOCC). Located between 3 underserved neighborhoods in San Francisco, TOCC’s innovative and well-disciplined kids learned all kinds of music, including religious, secular, jazz and R&B. Mr. Cole even toured the choir through a diverse range of countries like France, China, Spain, Jamaica, Australia, and more. His dedication has impacted many of his student’s lives and former TOCC students regard him as a father figure.

Gregory Cole believes in teaching students not just about music, but also about life and the power of personal achievement. He motivates his students academically and encourages them to pursue college, successful careers, and strong healthy relationships. Mr. Cole is a humble and kind man with a very deep soul. Michaela, Jae, and I were honored to interview him for this week’s episode.

For more information about Gregory Cole, please visit: http://touchofclasschoir.org/gregory-cole-director/

Meet Gregory Cole!