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Nonprofit Youth Chorus Brings Kids Together in Joyful Song

www.YouthChorusNorthshore.org

From the ancient Greek chorus to the modern Broadway musical, the benefits of choral singing have long been understood. Today, Youth Chorus of the North Shore—a not-for-profit serving the Evanston/Skokie area—offers kids the opportunity to hone their talents, while lifting their voices together in song.

YCNS was founded in 2016 by Lauren Sklar, an accomplished children’s chorus conductor who strives to create a joyful environment of music, friendship, and community. “Choral music offers so many benefits,” she says. “It creates a sense of inclusion. It builds self-confidence.

“And, of course, the kids love it.”

YCNS was created for children who want to learn, sing, and perform with other talented young artists. Students receive instruction in note reading, music vocabulary and vocal training—such as developing breath and pitch control, as well as healthy singing habits.

Students are divided into two ensembles: Alegría, for 2nd-4th graders, and Meraki, for 5th-8th graders. The ensembles meet once a week from September to May and present two recitals each year.

Its repertoire is interdisciplinary, multicultural and multilingual. Kids not only learn new music, but each song’s history and composer.

“YCNS has been one of the best things to happen to my daughter,” says Katherine Ma, whose daughter participated.

“Her personal and musical growth has exploded. She enjoys exploring new genres and languages. She never finds the environment too high-pressure or critical.”

Prior to the pandemic, the chorus would rehearse at the Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation in Evanston. Now, they rehearse outside at local parks. The group’s accompanist, Shuyi Guan—a nationally-recognized pianist—brings an electric keyboard.

These days, instead of performing at venues like retirement homes, YCNS partners with local music teachers to offer free online singing events. Some parents have told Sklar that these singing opportunities are helping their kids cope with today’s challenging times.

“As a vocalist myself, I love that my children are getting substantive theory, training in technique, singing solos and more,” says parent Michael Davis of Evanston.

“The atmosphere is joyful. Lauren creates a positive, productive environment. I know that the experiences my children are getting are lifelong treasures.”

YCNS is currently accepting new members for the 2021-2022 season. Interested singers will be asked to attend a low-key, supportive audition to confirm that they can match pitch, love to sing, and can make a season-long commitment.

While the not-for-profit charges a modest tuition to offset expenses, it also provides needs-based scholarships, so no child is turned away due to financial need. (YCNS, a 501(c)(3), accepts donations for this purpose.)

“One of our goals is to remove any barriers to participation for any area children we haven’t yet reached,” says Sklar. “Our goal is to offer a high level of musicianship and vocal training to our area’s youngest singers.” Go to: www.YouthChorusNorthshore.org for further information or to sign up.