SUSQUEHANNA YOUTH CHORALE

Founded in 1988 by Linda L. Tedford, the 60-voice Susquehanna Youth Chorale, conducted by Dru Deitch, provides a focused rehearsal and performing opportunity for students in grades nine through the freshman year of college.

 

The Susquehanna Youth Chorale was formed to complement existing school music programs, giving talented young singers an opportunity to rehearse and perform with other highly motivated students at an advanced level of artistic excellence. Membership is by audition and a membership fee is required. Scholarships are available to provide financial assistance for any deserving student who has been accepted for membership.

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The Chorale rehearses two hours each week for ten weeks during the fall. Rehearsals focus on preparation for a Scholarship Benefit Concert usually held in October, and the annual Youth Choral Festival in November. Repertoire includes pieces from many periods of music history and encompasses a wide range of styles. Rehearsals emphasize exploring fine choral literature, developing vocal skills through sound pedagogical approaches, and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the choral art.

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Members of the Youth Chorale have appeared as soloists, been selected for district, regional and state festival choirs and some have gone on to become professional music educators and performers.

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The Youth Chorale has performed for the Central Pennsylvania Scholastic Awards, the Founder’s Day program at the Milton Hershey School, at the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank’s Taster’s Luncheon, as part of the Harrisburg Symphony’s Christmas Pops Concert, as well as for area churches.

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Singers are required to pay a membership fee. A Scholarship Fund has been established to provide financial assistance for any musician with need who has auditioned successfully.