We are looking for children who are aged 8 to 13 have some experience of singing enjoy a challenge

This is a new and fantastic opportunity for young singers to have the very best possible introduction to singing at the highest level in a range of singing styles. The Hallé Children’s Choir will join the Hallé family of choirs, which includes the Hallé Choir and the Hallé Youth Choir.

What is it all about?
Who is Shirley Court?
More details on Membership
How to join
Further information
Download an application form

What is it all about?
The Children’s Choir, generously supported by DLA Piper, will learn and rehearse under the expert leadership of Shirley Court. Shirley is passionate, enthusiastic and highly experienced in working with children’s choirs.

The Children’s Choir will also have leadership from the Hallé’s Music Director, Sir Mark Elder and James Burton, the Hallé’s Choral Director.

Children from all walks of life are welcome to audition for the choir, all we ask is that they enjoy singing and are prepared for the challenge of developing and progressing their ability whilst having fun!

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Shirley Court
Shirley regularly conducts massed choirs of primary school children and is known nationally for her ability to motivate and inspire young singers of all ages and capabilities. As conductor of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Youth Chorus, Shirley has worked alongside many renowned conductors, preparing the Youth Chorus for many prestigious events.

Shirley is currently the director of Cheshire Youth Choir and acts as a consultant on many National Singing initiatives. She also runs courses for teachers and vocal animateurs nationwide.

In September 2006, Shirley was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Leicester for her work as a conductor of youth choirs and music in schools. Shirley is the co-author of the best selling Singing Sherlock books for Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, published by Boosey and Hawkes.

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Membership
Membership is for keen singers aged 8–13, and is free!

All members will:

• be required to attend short, weekly rehearsals at a venue in Manchester
• receive tutoring to develop pitch, tone and sense of rhythm
• be encouraged to learn to read music
• take part in performances with the Hallé, the Hallé Choir and the Hallé Youth Ensembles in Manchester and across the North West.

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How to join
Please download an application form (click here), fill it in and send it by Friday 1 August 2008 to:

Jane Bulpin
Children's Choir Administrator
Hallé Concerts Society
The Bridgewater Hall
Manchester M1 5HA

Short, informal trials will be held on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August 2008. You will be contacted during the first few weeks of August with the date and time of your trial.

Applicants are required to sing a short song of their own choice, in any musical style, something they know well and enjoy performing. They will also do vocal exercises and a musical awareness and response exercise.

Preference will be given to those not already in full time specialist music education.

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Further information
If you would like any further information, please contact Jane Bulpin on jane.bulpin@halle.co.uk or 0161 907 9056.

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The Hallé Children's Choir is generously supported by