MAYOR of Worcester Coun Louis Stephen is adding his voice to the call for local secondary schools and colleges to sign up for an amazing choral singing project for young people, starting this autumn.
Schools are invited to register their interest in the project as soon as possible.
It is open to any Worcestershire secondary school (students in Years 8-13), college, and university, and comes at no cost to either schools, or students and families.
Teaching and learning will begin from September through to a concert in April 2024. “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people and our schools to come together and sing their hearts out while working with some of the country’s leading professional musicians,” Worcester’s first citizen said.
“Schools will have the chance to perform Will Todd’s exhilarating jazz choral work ‘Mass In Blue’ with a stunning line-up of artists and the Will Todd Ensemble. I am fully behind this exciting idea and I really encourage schools to get involved and have fun.
“What a great event this will be for the city too!”
Leading the line-up of professionals involved will be Neil Ferris, chorus director BBC Symphony Chorus who will work with students and teachers directly in and out of school, as well as conducting the culminating performance in Worcester Cathedral.
Composer Will Todd will also join rehearsals and perform alongside the Youth Chorus with his professional 13-piece jazz ensemble.
Jess Gillam was recently awarded an MBE for Services to Music and is a recipient of a Classic BRIT award, presents her own award-winning weekly show ‘This Classical Life’ on BBC Radio 3, and performs the world over as a solo artist.
A number of talented instrumental students will be able to take part in a Masterclass with Jess.
Project producer Anne Renshaw said: ”There’s a real need post-pandemic and in the current tough times to boost mental/physical health and well-being, especially amongst young people.
“Singing is a great way to do this. We know from past projects, and from what teachers tell us, that taking part in a fantastic musical experience such as this can improve young people’s self-confidence, encourage self-expression and aid personal and social development.
“We especially want to reach out to those students who may never have engaged in the arts or sung in a choir before, but think they might like to, and offer them the opportunity to immerse themselves as part of a massed youth choir working with some really brilliant and inspirational professional musicians.
“It will most certainly be the experience of a lifetime.”
Call 07810 823322 or e-mail [email protected] for more.
