Financial Assistance recipients share what National Youth Choir means to them

Amelia is part of National Youth Choir (18-25 Years). 

“The past year with National Youth Choir has been absolutely incredible. With it having been my first year in the choir, I really didn't know what to expect as many others had been in the younger choirs prior to 18-25. However, I very much feel a part of the NYC family, and have had such fun both musically and socially over the last year.  

My favourite project probably has to have been Carols in the Royal Albert Hall at Christmas time. For me, this project brought an extra special atmosphere of togetherness and teamwork at this lovely time of year. That being said, our most recent project with Aurora orchestra and the BBC singers, where we performed Beethoven's’ Ninth by memory as part of the BBC Proms will be something I will never forget. The most amazing performance - just so special and exciting! Additionally, the Easter Residential was a fabulous opportunity to get to know each other better as it was the first prolonged period where we were all singing together. I thoroughly enjoyed performing Fauré’s Requiem at the end of the course in St John Smiths’ square - just magnificent!  

Since joining the choir this time last year, I have noticed my ability to grasp musical concepts, rhythms, and ideas improve vastly, purely because there is an element of healthy competition when singing amongst peers in National Youth Choir.   

Furthermore, I have developed confidence in my performance skills, an example being always trying to audition for solos, even if they're difficult/nerve racking experiences, because it helps me improve for next time.  

Over the last year, I have found myself constantly thinking about/looking forward to the next National Youth Choir projects. What’s really special for me is how lovely it is to be amongst friends who have the same drive and passion for singing and music making as I do- because it's not often common to feel this way! Even when taking part in music external to National Youth Choir.  

Last but not least, having financial assistance is something I am extremely grateful for. It is simply the difference between me being able to be in National Youth Choir and not. National Youth Choir is extra special to me because my late mum was a musician and we always used to love making music together. It brings me great joy, knowing that these wonderful opportunities on offer with National Youth Choir would make her very happy.” 

“I’ve been part of National Youth Choir since girls choir and have worked my way right up through the choirs to where I am now in National Youth Choir (18-25 Years). I have so many amazing memories that I will never forget. 

I started National Youth Choir shortly after starting singing lessons at my teacher's suggestion. This is one of the best decisions I have made in my path to becoming a full-time conservatoire student. The choir has taught me how to use so many different techniques with my voice, and most importantly given me the stamina my voice needs to sing every day while I am at college.  

Aside from the way National Youth Choir has helped me develop my technique, it has taught me to love all genres of music from all around the world. I am now love singing in so many different languages and styles which has helped me broaden my horizons, create a brilliant range of repertoire in my studies and keep my options open for future career opportunities. 

The courses are the highlight of my year, and this would not be possible without the financial support we have been gifted. I am able to get so much more out of these courses knowing my parents don’t have the stress of needing to find the money to make it happen. 

The opportunities National Youth Choir has given me along my journey with them has been something I am so proud to put on my CV and any application to conservatoires and has undoubtedly helped me get to where I wanted to be. I am certain that it will continue to help me with this long into the future as I follow the path to becoming a professional classical singer.”