The Essex Young Singers (EYS) is the flagship vocal group within Essex and is a talented soprano, contralto, tenor, bass choir. Included in their musical diet is a wide variety of musical genres, including gospel and spirituals, folk songs, numbers from popular musicals, TV theme songs and madrigals and part songs. They also have a growing and impressive repertoire of standard and less well known works from the sacred choral canon, such as Gounod's Messe Chorale, Rutter's Gloria and a host of a cappella items.

 

As many of the singers are also very talented instrumentalists, the choir's repertoire also includes works accompanied by a solo orchestral instrument.

 

The EYS meet for two days during the October and February half terms and sing in the joint concert on the second Saturday of those half terms. They meet for a course during the first week of the summer holidays followed by a concert tour. These rehearsals are supplemented with occasional Saturday or Sunday repertoire days.

 

In addition to learning to sing a wide range of pieces the EYS workshops have included sessions on conducting, composition and Alexander Technique.

 

Janette Ruocco and Simon Warne are the conductors of the ETC and Simon Harvey is the accompanist.

 

Like all of the other Essex Music Services choirs, the EYS is a non-audition group. However, a small number of scholarships are available through an audition process. Successful applicants are awarded reduced cost places on courses and tours. In return they are expected to come along to work as singing mentors with the younger singers in the Essex Training Choir, the Essex Beginner Choir and the Essex Fun Singers.

 

For more information about scholarships and about joining the EYS please contact Essex Music Services.