Brooklyn Youth Chorus 101
New to Brooklyn Youth Chorus? Start here. BYC 101 breaks down everything you need to know about joining our choral family. Learn how our age-tailored divisions guide singers from foundational musicianship to advanced ensemble performance, discover rehearsal schedules right in your neighborhood, and see how our financial aid program ensures cost is never a barrier to singing. Take a look below to see where your young artist’s musical journey begins.
What does each singer’s journey look like at Brooklyn Youth Chorus?
Brooklyn Youth Chorus organizes singers by age and skill to support healthy vocal growth at every stage. Young artists begin either in our audition-free, play-based Pre-Preparatory program (ages 5–6) or progress through our age-tailored Training Divisions: Preparatory (ages 7–9), Pre-Teen (ages 10–12), and Teen (ages 13–18). As students develop, our most advanced choristers are invited to audition for one of three rigorous Performing Ensembles—the treble Junior and Concert Ensembles, or the changed-voice Bass Ensemble—with annual assessments guiding each singer's ongoing placement.
What do singers learn at Brooklyn Youth Chorus?
We teach young singers how to sing with healthy, versatile technique so they feel comfortable singing everything from pop and jazz to classical and folk music. Through our own proven teaching method, students learn how to read sheet music, understand rhythm, and harmonize with others. More than just notes on a page, our classes help young singers find their authentic voice, build focus, and gain confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Where do Brooklyn Youth Chorus classes take place?
Great music classes should be easy to fit into your week. Beyond our main headquarters on Pacific Street, we hold weekly rehearsals in convenient neighborhood locations across Brooklyn, including Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Hill, and Bed-Stuy. With choices between after-school weekdays and Saturday mornings, you can pick a schedule and spot that works best for your family.
Does Brooklyn Youth Chorus offer financial aid?
We believe every child who loves to sing should be able to join us, no matter their family’s budget. Thanks to community support, every family receives subsidized tuition, and more than a third receive extra need-based financial aid. Our aid application is quick, private, and simple, and we offer flexible monthly payment plans so finances never stand in the way.
What is the placement audition process like for young singers?
Don’t let the word “audition” worry you—our placement check-ins are quick, friendly, and low-stress. In about 10 to 15 minutes, our conductors simply listen to your child sing, do a few easy vocal games, and get to know them. It isn't a pass-or-fail test; it’s just a way to make sure we place your singer in the class where they’ll have the most fun and thrive. (Plus, ages 5–6 skip the audition entirely and can enroll right away!)
Do singers get a chance to perform?
Singing on stage is an exciting part of the experience for every student. Our younger singers take the stage in fun annual shows like our winter Holiday Harmonies and Spring Sings concerts. As singers advance into our upper ensembles, opportunities grow to include singing at world-famous venues like Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall alongside groups like the New York Philharmonic.
Still have questions?
We understand that signing up for a new activity can feel overwhelming, but we promise it's relaxed and fun! If you have any questions about the placement audition, financial aid, scheduling, or which division is right for your child, please complete the form at the button below and someone from our team will be in touch. There's no pressure, just helpful conversation.