CHILDREN and young people from Keighley be welcomed at a new Bradford and Airedale Youth Choir.

The choir is recruiting youngsters aged seven to 18 from Monday evening rehearsals at Dixons Cottingley Academy, split into junior and senior sections.

Experienced singing coaches Emma Bradnum and Becs Leighton recently set up the choir after becoming frustrated by the lack of funding for music education.

The pair believe that musical education should be accessible and affordable to all families.

They said: “BAYC is a choir for every child with singing potential - because opportunities in music can change futures.

“The choir offers at least two fully-funded bursary places per year to families with financial difficulties, and pledges to reduce fees as it grows – the bigger the choir, the lower the cost of membership.

“The highest standards of vocal coaching are delivered through fun, energetic and focussed rehearsals. Singers will develop technique through a wide range of repertoire, from gospel and classical to pop, rock and musical theatre.

“Singing with BAYC will give our young people confidence, friendships and socio-emotional skills that will set them up for life.”

Trained choral directors Emma and Becs both teach instruments and singing, and have led or worked with choirs including Stagecoach, Morrisingers, Ilkley Youth Choir, Village Voices, and Barnsley Singers and Barnsley Youth Choir.

They added: “We remain leaders of several of these choirs and are really excited to be bringing our passion and skills to BAYC.”

Visit bradfordandairedaleyouthchoir.co.uk to register for a group audition which will include vocal warm-ups, singing games, short songs and harmonies.