Newark is one of the places hosting auditions for the National Children’s Choir of Great Britain (NCCGB), which is searching for the next generation of singing talent.

Children, aged from 9 to 19, are being invited to join the choir from Easter 2027.

Auditions are free and open to any enthusiastic young singer. Successful candidates take part in two residential choral courses per year, spending a week at Easter and summer in Bromsgrove School, Worcestershire.

A letter of recommendation from a singing teacher, music teacher or choir conductor is required at the point of applying for an audition.

This should include details of the applicant’s musical achievements, what they are currently doing musically, and why they should be considered for a place.

Auditions are booked on a first-come, first-served basis. Young people will be invited to perform one song from memory, accompanied, which should last no more than three minutes.

They will also do aural tests, including musical memory tests and singing chords and — for children in Year 7 and above — some sight singing, which is tailored to the child’s singing level. Auditions last around 30 minutes, including warm-up time.

A spokesperson said: “The NCCGB team is not seeking the ‘finished article’, but is instead looking for potential, passion, and a desire to learn.

“The audition panel comprises NCCGB’s music team, who have a great deal of experience of working with children in many settings, and always strive to help children navigate on-the-day nerves.”

Parents and carers may sign up their child free of charge via the NCCGB website, where they will find further useful information including FAQs, bursary information, and examples of sight-singing. Choir members from many different backgrounds are welcomed and bursaries are available for people who may otherwise be unable to meet course fees.

Chief executive Nicole O’Donnell said: “Last year we thoroughly enjoyed meeting every young singer who came to audition for NCCGB, and we were enthused by the number of children who were eager to take part.

“As we have a limited number of spaces, we highly recommend booking an audition early.”

Auditions may be booked online at www.nccgb.com/joining-us

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