We are forming a Nelson Youth Choir to generate a love of singing in a choir; to provide the opportunity for members to be taught the art of choral singing; to produce choral music of a high standard.

We would like students representing your school to be in the newly formed Nelson Youth Choir, and this email provides information about the choir and auditions.

The Nelson Youth Choir will enhance music activities in your school, and is designed to be about fun, accuracy and excellence.

The repertoire will be varied and include all musical styles.

Who are we?

We are a team who have experience, networks, and a track record of success:

• Conductor/Teacher: Nigel Weeks QSM
• Conductor/Teacher: Zoë Dee
• Business Manager: Sally Hallmark

Why does Nelson need a Youth Choir?

· There is a fine tradition of music and singing in Nelson, with Nelson schools well represented in winning top awards for their choirs in New Zealand (The Big Sing and Cadenza). However, Nelson City does not currently have a viable and visible Youth Choir, as do other cities.

· We have met with Mayor Rachel Reese and staff at Nelson City Council and had positive discussions with them, and we will be seeking formal support for our proposal from Council with a view to building on the strong relationship between the Choir, Council and the community.

Who can sing in the Youth Choir?

Any young person between 13-22 years old in the Nelson Tasman region who is accepted after audition. Applicants attend an audition on Sunday 23rd February 10.00 am – 4.00 pm, and Saturday February 29th 10.00 am – 1.00 pm if required, at Broadgreen Intermediate School, 193 Nayland Road, Stoke.

What do students need for the audition?

Once a student has booked a time for an audition, which takes about 10 minutes, they will receive information about how the audition will be run and what to bring, as well as an application form to fill in and bring to the audition.

What is expected of Youth Choir members?

Youth Choir members:

• must commit to all rehearsals, held every two weeks on Tuesdays 5.00 pm – 6.30 pm, beginning in March.

• work together in a team for a choir of excellence.
• pay a fee of $30 per term.
• have parental permission to attend if under 18 years old.

We are asking you to publicise the Nelson Youth Choir in your school through assembly, and notices. Sally Hallmark, the Business Manager, will follow up with you the week beginning February 10th on the interest in your school.

Interested students can contact Sally direct on nelsonyouthchoir@gmail.com

Any queries from students or parents can be directed to Sally at nelsonyouthchoir@gmail.com or by ringing her on 021 475 026.

• Conductors/Teachers: Nigel Weeks & Zoë Dee
• Join this exciting new choir for singers 13–22 years old
• Sunday 23 February 2020 10.00 am–4.00 pm
• Broadgreen Intermediate School, 193 Nayland Rd Stoke
• For more information and to book an audition time
• email nelsonyouthchoir@gmail.com

Kind regards

Sally Hallmark

Business Manager, Nelson Youth Choir

021 475 026