JYC starts 15th anniversary season with free concert

The internationally acclaimed Jamaica Youth Chorale (JYC) is preparing to treat music lovers to a free concert at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Chapel in St Andrew on November 26, as part of activities to mark its 15th anniversary.

The choir will achieve the milestone on December 1, 15 years after its founding members gathered to deliver a rendition of the National Anthem at The UWI. Since that début performance in 2008, the group has evolved into one of the leading choirs in the country, touring South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as getting featured in several local and regional productions and publications.

Greg Simms, founder and conductor of the JYC, said the free concert is the group’s way of saying thanks to its patrons and alumni who have contributed to the development of the choir over the years.

Since its establishment, over 250 singers have passed through the chorale, which Simms believes is an indication of the significant impact the organisation has had in such a short time.

“For 15 years we have had the pleasure of working with some amazingly talented young people, providing these singers and musicians with a safe space to express themselves and hone their gifts,” said Simms.

“All of what we have accomplished could not have been done without the support we received all these years, and what better way to show our appreciation to our friends, partners and donors than through our music?”

Simms said that at the upcoming show, which is scheduled to start at 5 p.m., persons can expect an eclectic program me, including crowd favourites from over the years.

“We’ve included songs that we love; songs that our audiences love; songs that have been there from foundation; and, of course, something for the holiday season. There will be something for everyone, as is customary with a JYC event,” he shared.

The free concert will precede the choir’s premier yuletide event, Christmas Joy, on December 16 and December 17 at the Philip Sherlock Centre for the Creative Arts at UWI, Mona.

Simms said as the JYC enters its 15th year, the group will be looking to improve its high standard, and also its influence within the wider choral space.