Their choir is part of the Newcomer Choirs Association of Canada — an initiative founded by Rachel Manko Lutz in Halifax to help newcomers learn English in a low-stakes environment. But the choir isn’t just for newcomers, Bouchard says. Julien Bouchard and Kristen English are behind the St. John’s chapter of the Newcomer Choir Association’s choir in St. John’s. She had heard about the choir from Manko Lutz and offered the two a space at the AMAL building in downtown. Manko Lutz explains the performances have helped the group grow close.