The Lenoir-Rhyne Youth Chorus is now holding auditions. The group will celebrate its 10^th anniversary this school year with concerts, tours and festivals. All treble voices (boys and girls) between third grade and high school senior are invited to call for an audition.

There is a beginning and an advanced chorus, and an advanced chamber ensemble. In its weekly rehearsals, the chorus learns good vocal technique, classic sacred and secular repertoire, folk songs from different countries, and sight-singing techniques.

Membership in the chorus develops self-confidence, discipline, dependability and creativity. It also helps form character and build group dynamics. Many communities throughout the region are represented in this active group. The singers come from public and private elementary, middle, and high schools as well as many home-schools. Closely affiliated with the Sacred Music Program of Lenoir-Rhyne College, the singers often have the privilege of performing in concert with the Lenoir-Rhyne A Cappella Choir.

Larkin Schramm is one of the many area young people who have participated in the Lenoir-Rhyne Youth Chorus since its creation 10 years ago.

L-R Professor Florence Jowers, founder and director of the group, said, “We have an exciting year planned, culminating with our first tour abroad — participation in the Canterbury Choral Festival in England next July!”

She added: “More than 500 area youth have been through the program in its 10 years, and many have gone on to major in music in college. This program is not only for those destined to have a career in music, however. Singing is an activity that one can continue throughout life, and this chorus provides the foundation for a lifetime of music-making.”

To schedule an audition, or for more information, call 828-328-7195. Auditions will be held on an as-needed basis for the next several weeks. Rehearsals begin at the end of August and are held on the L-R campus every Tuesday evening. The beginning chorus (Minnesingers) rehearses at 5:15-6:30 p.m., and the advanced group (Meistersingers) rehearses at 7-8:30 p.m.