Pittsburgh Youth Chorus
About Pittsburgh Youth Chorus
Pittsburgh Youth Chorus (formerly Children’s Festival Chorus) is a collective of young people who have been empowered and inspired by the joy of singing. Led by a dedicated staff of choral professionals who specialize in the young voice, Pittsburgh Youth Chorus (PYC) serves the region through exceptional choral music education and artistry. With opportunities for singers in grades 1-12 – and with a focus on personal development, community engagement, travel, and cultural exchange – PYC’s multi-faceted programming is celebrated for its ability to nurture the potential of its participants while fostering confidence, dedication, and a sense of belonging.
PYC made its debut in 1983, joining the forces of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for a performance of Mahler’s Third Symphony. Over the organization’s 40-year history, PYC has touched the lives of over 3,000 children, hundreds of educators, and untold thousands of area residents through professional-level music education and performance. PYC’s ever-growing list of collaborators includes the Pittsburgh Opera, the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Public Theater, the Hill Dance Academy Theatre, the Three Rivers Young People’s Orchestra, and more.
The magic of PYC is in the relationships. Bonds rise between the young singers as their music-making transforms into a powerful and meaningful experience. Countless families have attested to how their lives have been touched as a result of being a part of the PYC family. Pittsburgh Youth Chorus is proud of its singers – past and present – and eager to continue serving our communities with programs that invest in the region’s cultural landscape and future leaders.
Programs:
- Troubadours – Troubadours is for auditioned elementary school children, grade 3 and above.
- Talisman – Singers in this choir are usually grade 5 and above.
- Bel Canto Singers – Members range from grade 6 and above.
- High School Ensembles – Headwaters is an ensemble for high school treble voices and Bridge City Singers is an ensemble for high school changed voices.
- Summer Singers Day Camp – One-week summer camp experience for children ages 7-10.
- CAMP- a required intensive camp for enrolled Talisman and Bel Canto Singers which generally takes place in July or August.
- Neighborhood Training Choirs – Our non-auditioned Neighborhood Training Choirs provide an exciting opportunity for young singers in grades 1-2 to discover their voice in a high-quality choral education program that is close to home. There are classes located in Allison Park, Upper St. Clair, Shadyside, and Coraopolis.
- School Training Choirs – These programs are comparable to our Neighborhood Training Choirs but offered in partnership with local schools. Current locations include Pittsburgh Dilworth and Aliquippa Elementary.
To learn more about PYC, visit our website!
