Opera North’s Newcastle Children’s Chorus, which has been operating in the city for a year, is recruiting new members aged from 8 to 12. The emphasis is on talent rather than previous experience or background. During weekly sessions at the Theatre Royal, members are helped to perfect their vocal technique and acquire skills in drama and stagecraft under the guidance of Opera North’s Delivery Artists.
“When we launched a Children’s Chorus in Newcastle,” said Jacqui Cameron, Opera North Education Director, “we had no idea how successful it would be, but it has gone from strength to strength over the past 12 months with the young people really making the most of the opportunity to work alongside our professional singers, performers and directors.
“We’re now on the hunt for new members who are looking to refine their vocal technique and musicianship in an enjoyable, welcoming and stimulating setting, while making new friends who share their passion for singing.”
Those who are interested are invited to go along to the Theatre Royal in Newcastle at 5PM on Monday 11 September where, after an informal taster session, individual auditions will be held. Successful applicants will be invited to come along to sessions at the theatre between 5PM and 6:30PM every Monday during term-time.
Membership costs £50 per term, with financial assistance available for those who might otherwise be deterred from applying. Anyone wishing to register an interest or find out more should visit Opera North Children's Chorus - Newcastle or contact the Opera North Youth Ensemble Manager, Marie Lemaire, on 0113 223 3557.
Regular opportunities are given to sing alongside the Orchestra or Chorus of Opera North and to join forces with the Opera North Children’s Chorus in Leeds. Future engagements include an appearance at the Smile for Life Charity Gala in October and a Christmas Concert in December. The group will also be working with director John Wilkie to mount a semi-staged performance of Peter Maxwell Davies’s The Spiders’ Revenge at both the Howard Assembly Room in Leeds and Durham Town Hall at the beginning of November.