HISTORY & GOALS

Young Singers of Greater Westfield was founded in 2001 by Janet St. Jean and Allan Taylor as an auditioned concert choir of talented young people from the greater Westfield area. The choir is made up of children from grades two through high school, and each singer must pass a simple audition in which he or she demonstrates the ability to match pitch and carry a tune.

The goal of Young Singers is to give children a unique opportunity to learn and perform music at a high level. Each chorus rehearses weekly for 75-120 minutes, and learns vocal fundamentals, basic musicianship and basic music reading. The singers also become familiar with a wide range of musical styles. The group’s season extends from September through April, and they present at least two formal concerts, one in the fall and one in the spring, which are sung from memory.

OUR THREE DIVISIONS

Young Singers of Greater Westfield has three divisions, a Junior Division for students in grades 2-5, a Senior Division for students in grades 5 and up, and Moriah, for students in grades 8 and up. The divisions rehearse separately, then come together for performances, festivals, tours, and social events.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

Many studies have documented the importance of music in a child's education from the earliest ages. Children who participate in YSGW benefit from the experience in many ways, including getting opportunities:

• To experience an eclectic mix of exciting repertoire
• To enhance their musical knowledge and skills
• To perform at a high level and demonstrate their talent
• To work with a talented conductor and accompanists, as well as other professional musicians and music educators
• To sing and have fun with other talented youngsters who share their interests
• To attend local and state choral concerts and festivals, to go on school tours, to participate in workshops with professional musicians, and to enjoy social gatherings and retreats