Courses Residential courses are at the heart of the National Youth Choir, full of music, learning, fun and friends. Some of the UK's top conductors and teachers lead you in incredible music alongside other talented and enthusiastic young singers. You'll develop choral skills, individual vocal technique and musicianship. Confidence grows throughout the course until you're ready to showcase your skills to great audiences around the UK. If you're a member of National Youth Choir (9-18 Years), you'll go on up to two inspirational residential courses each year; one during the Easter school holidays and one during the Summer break. Whilst the courses vary in length, depending on your age and ability, they're all packed with opportunities, experiences, music, fun and friendships. If you're a National Youth Choir (18-25 Years) member, you will attend several projects throughout the year as part of the annual programme from September to August. Our courses are only open to members who have successfully auditioned to join the National Youth Choir. Find out more about auditioning for one of our choirs Rehearsals Read more Rehearsals happen throughout the day, in sectional groups and in split and full ensembles. They're never 'run-throughs' or 'note-bashing' - you'll work on your individual and ensemble sound and blend, learn to listen to the wider music beyond your part, create different sounds and styles, and build performances that incorporate choreography and movement. As your experience grows, so will your ability to lead others and support their progress. Musicianship Read more If you're a member of one of the National Youth Choir (9-18 Years) ensembles, you'll receive dedicated musicianship sessions as part of your daily schedule. We use games and singing exercises to develop your sight-reading, rhythm, pitch, and aural skills. Alexander Technique Read more National Youth Choir (15-18 Years) and National Youth Choir (18-25 Years) members receive group sessions with qualified Alexander Technique practitioners. They help to improve your movement and breathing, and to identify postural habits which can increase in performance. The Society of Teachers of Alexander Technique website carries further information about their work on our courses, and their national programme of education. Vocal Tuition Read more You'll be given guidance on vocal health and development on every course you attend. Careers forums Read more National Youth Choir is just part of your musical journey. Members of the National Youth Choir (15-18 Years) and National Youth Choir (18-25 Years) can take part in forums to help guide your choices as you move through school and towards higher education and specialist music study. Social Activities Read more Even the most enthusiastic singers need time to recharge and refresh. Every course has its own Head of Social Activities who will organise everything from craft activities to quiz nights. It's all optional and, of course, there is always free time for you to relax or revise if you've got exams looming! Pastoral Care / Safeguarding Read more Whether it's helping with medication or special access requirements, or lending a friendly and confidential ear, our pastoral team is always there for you. Safeguarding members and protecting them from harm is the responsibility of every member of staff. All our staff are DBS checked and are trained in NSPCC Safeguarding/Child Protection. Our pastoral staff are also trained in First Aid, Safe Handling of Medication, Prevent and Health and Safety. National Youth Choir (9-18 Years) Courses & Fees Residential courses for National Youth Choir (9-18 Years) ensembles usually take place twice a year, during the Easter and Summer holidays. The locations vary but one will take place in the North and one in the South. Course fees vary year to year. Provisional Course Dates for 2024 National Youth Choir 9-15 (female and non-binary members) SpringOption One: Wednesday 3rd to Sunday 7th April in Tonbridge, KentOption Two: Tuesday 9th to Saturday 13th April in Escrick, Yorkshire SummerOption one: Monday 22nd to Friday 26th July in Framlingham, SuffolkOption two: Tuesday 13th to Saturday 17th August in Escrick, Yorkshire National Youth Choir 9-15 (male and non-binary members) SpringWednesday 3rd to Sunday 7th April in Tonbridge, Kent SummerTuesday 23rd to Saturday 27th July in Uppingham, Rutland National Youth Choir 15-18 (female, male and non-binary members) SpringSaturday 30th March to Saturday 6th April in Banbury, Oxfordshire SummerOption one: Sunday 4th to Sunday 11th August in Ascot, BerkshireOption two: Monday 19th to Monday 26th August in Escrick, Yorkshire Residential Course Fees National Youth Choir (9-15 Years) - £715 per course National Youth Choir (15-18 Years) - £1020 per course There is also a one-off membership fee of £99 when you join the National Youth Choir for the first time We know that more families will be facing financial pressures and the amount available to those who are eligible for financial assistance has increased, offering up to 100% support. Find out more and apply for financial assistance. National Youth Choir (18-25 Years) Courses & Fees National Youth Choir (18-25 Years) has an annual programme which varies and can include residential courses across the country and a Discovery Weekend in London. Annual Programme dates 2023-24 Project 1: Discovery Weekend 1-3 September 2023, London Project 2: Carols at the Royal Albert Hall, 15-24th December 2023, London Project 3: Spring Residential, 24-28th March 2024, Reading Project 4: Summer Residential, 20-29th July 2024, Leicestershire Manage Cookie Preferences