The Ashland Symphonic Youth Chorus is opening up its doors for our 2010-2011 season and we would love to have you join us!  The Ashland Symphonic Youth Chorus was begun in 1990 to offer musically talented children the opportunity to expand their choral experience through learning and performing many types of music.  We rehearse on Tuesday evenings from September to May.  There are three groups:  the Prep Chorus (singers from the third through the sixth grade), the Chorale (middle school and high school singers), and the Angelorum (an a cappella auditioned ensemble of ladies from the Chorale).  We have two major concerts per year (December and May) in the Ashland University Chapel as well as several smaller appearances throughout the year.  We sing a wide variety of music from classic literature to pop to show tunes to sacred to spirituals and even vocal jazz!  Our program builds on what students learn in their schools and provides them an opportunity to learn performance skills and further their singing abilities.

ASYC is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization.  Tuition covers about one-third of our operating revenue for the year.  We hold two major fund raising campaigns (one in the fall and one in the spring) to raise additional funds to operate the program.  We also do several one day fund raisers to raise funds.  We also offer a tuition sponsorship program to reduce or eliminate your tuition!  If you are ready to sign up or need more information, contact our business manager, Mike Matter, at 419-289-2487 or email us at info@ashlandsyc.org.

On Saturday, April 24, over 110 area third to fifth grade singers gathered to participate in the ninth annual North Central Ohio Children’s Honor Choir.  The theme for the event was “Stories in Word and Song.”  Students from ten area schools as well as the Ashland Symphonic Youth Chorus Prep Choir combined their voices on this wonderful day.  Under the direction of ASYC Artistic Director, Kathleen Matter, the Choir rehearsed and performed four selections to the delight of a full house at the Ashland University Jack & Deb Miller Chapel.  In addition, selected students performed two stories in “reader’s theatre” format, Dave Kowalka shared a story with the children, and the barbershop quartet “Bravada” entertained us with their impeccable four part harmony.  It was indeed a magnificent afternoon, and we are already looking forward to the 10^th annual concert in the spring of 2011.

Check out some of the pictures from the Honor Choir Review on our Photos Page!

ASYC will be holding its annual Choral Capers Talent Show at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ashland on Sunday, March 7th at 4:00 pm.  All are invited to come and share in this fun event which will feature all three choirs in ASYC!  In addition to the choirs, members of the chorus are invited to share their special talents with everyone who comes.  You will be delighted as you hear singing solos, piano duets, instrumental pieces and maybe even a little comic relief in the form of theatrical drama!  After the concert you are invited to attend a supper sponsored by ASYC parents and Buehler’s Grocery Store in the church’s lower level.  Donations are accepted at the dinner and the concert is free and open to the public.  This light-hearted concert is sure to warm up those suffering from the winter blues.  We hope to see you there!

It’s that time again . . . ASYC is opening up it’s doors to any interested 3rd grader – high schooler who would like to come and sit in on a rehearsal to see what we’re all about!  We will be hosting not one, but TWO open rehearsals this year.  You can choose to come to our “Bring a Friend” night on either Tuesday September 22 or Tuesday September 29.  Come to one or come to both!  We have got exciting things planned for you to join in on the fun of ASYC.  If you are in 3rd grade – 6th grade you can join us for our Prep Choir rehearsal which runs from 6:00 – 7:00 pm.  If you are in middle school through high school you can join us for our Chorale rehearsal which runs from 7:00 – 8:30 pm.  Both groups practice in the Center for the Arts Building located on Ashland University’s Campus in the choir room (room 242).  Both rehearsals have no strings or commitments to join attached.  We just want you to come and see for yourself why we are so excited about ASYC!  Come ready to have a fantastic time meeting new friends, singing together and experiencing music learning in fun new ways!