This campaign has now closed
NewYVC is an open-access youth choir for singers aged 11-25 from Newham and the surrounding boroughs. With a reputation for excellence and inclusion, the choir creates a family for young people outside of school. Somewhere to belong, where their voice is heard and placed front and centre.
Categories
Beneficiaries
Situation
Newham is one of the most deprived boroughs nationally with a 49% child poverty rate (Trust for London 2022). Cultural investment in the borough is amongst the lowest in London (ACE) and as a consequence Newham has the second lowest level of cultural engagement of all the London boroughs at 36.6%. It has a 94% ethnically diverse population (ages 5-18). Talented young people don’t believe an arts career is possible due to lack of diverse role-models and and exposure to creative career pathways.
Solution
This project supports children and young people to access weekly music making opportunities during term time, and opportunities to further their development through conducting courses, regular performance opportunities and learning. Younger choir members are mentored by older members and we embed creative career progression routes by linking with further and higher education providers. Music-making is known to improve brain function, confidence and social skills as well as raising aspirations.