Our Choirs
Music Makers
After much anticipation, our Music Makers program is reopening this season! This non-performing 45-minute introductory music class for kindergarten and first-graders will provide young children their first exposure to music and singing together. Since the focus is on having fun, making social connections, and experiencing the wonder of music, the teaching approach comprises singing games, movement, playing instruments, and sharing each student’s unique voice in a relaxed environment. Classes take place in San Luis Obispo from 3:30 pm - 4:15 pm at the SLO Nazarene Church on Tuesdays. Director to be announced.
Three 8-week sessions are scheduled for 2021-22:
- Session 1: September 21-November 9, 2021
- Session 2: January 11-March 1, 2022
- Session 3: March 15-May 10, 2022
Brio
Brio is a performing choir open to boys and girls in grades 2-3 who would like to explore and experience singing, music and fun! No audition is necessary. The Brio Choir appears in our major concerts and community events. Performance in concerts is dependent on maturity and stage presence. Rehearsals take place in San Luis Obispo at the SLO Nazarene Church on Tuesdays. Brio choir is directed by Kelley Lokensgard.
Cadence
Cadence is open to boys and girls in grades 4-7. No prior singing experience is necessary, nor is an audition required. Vocal coaching and the teaching of musicianship skills is an integral part of rehearsal. Cadence participates in major concerts and community events. Rehearsals are from 4:15-5:45 pm at the SLO Nazarene Church on Tuesdays. The Cadence choir is directed by Lissa Melton.
Cadenza
Cadenza is a middle school choir specifically designed for singers in grades 7-8. Cadenza singers will typically sing in the same performances as Cadence, with added local opportunities and additional combined performances with upper choirs. Additional pieces of music will be selected for these singers to build their vocal ability and prepare them for the transition to Vivace in the years ahead. Cadenza is directed by Kelley Lokensgard.
Young Men's Ensemble
The Young Men’s Ensemble has been designed for both changed and unchanged voices. Young men in grades 6 and up are encouraged to join. No audition is required; regular voice checks will be a part of rehearsal. YME will join Vivace on selected songs.
Vivace
Vivace is an auditioned choir for young women in grades 9 and up. Singers perform repertoire from classics to 4-part a cappella and all styles in between. They are required to have vocal independence and developed musicianship skills. Vivace sings in all major concerts, choral festivals, and has opportunities for traveling and touring. They collaborate in performances with local adult groups such as OperaSLO, the SLO Symphony, SLO Vocal Arts Ensemble, and SLO Master Chorale. Rehearsals are Tuesdays from 4:00-6pm, directed by Melody Svennungsen. Auditions can be scheduled by contacting our office at info@centralcoastyouthchorus.org.
Advanced Vocal Ensemble
AVE is an auditioned chamber group made up of Vivace members that are usually ages 16+ (recommended ages—some exceptions may occur). A year-long commitment from a prospective AVE singer is preferred by directors in order to build a strong ensemble. AVE members are expected to make choir a priority, and realize that membership means acting as ambassadors for CCYC. The time commitment is greater, as AVE is involved with more outside (unscheduled) performances. Members are required to memorize and work on music independently, as well as attend extended Tuesday, and some weekend, rehearsals. They also act as mentors and section leaders for Vivace. Musically, members are expected to understand and be able to apply intermediate theory skills, learn difficult music (often a cappella), and hold their own part independently. Excellent work ethic, focus, and mature comportment is expected in rehearsal, on stage, and as audience members. Directed by Melody Svennungsen. Auditions can be scheduled by contacting our office.
