about us
about
Pittsburgh Youth Chorus (PYC) is a collective of young people who have been empowered and inspired by the joy of singing. Led by a dedicated staff of choral professionals who specialize in the young voice, PYC is Pittsburgh's premier youth choral education organization serving the region through exceptional choral music education and artistry since 1983. With opportunities for singers ages 6 through 18 - and with a focus on personal development, community engagement, travel, and cultural exchange - PYC's multi-faceted programming is celebrated for its ability to nurture the potential of its participants while fostering confidence, dedication, and a sense of belonging.
mission
Our mission statement:
Empowering and inspiring tomorrow's leaders through the joy and power of singing.
Through the joy and power of singing, Pittsburgh Youth Chorus is empowering and inspiring a diverse and inclusive collective of our region's young people for a lifetime of personal and community leadership - offering transformational opportunities in choral music, making a significant investment in Pittsburgh's cultural landscape, and serving as an exemplar for how singing can impact the world.
vision
PYC's imperative is to assure that our programs are accessible and relevant to all young people in the Pittsburgh region who find joy in singing with others. We hope to create a PYC that is more diverse - racially, ethnically, geographically, and economically - and more equitable.
history
PYC made its debut in 1983, joining the forces of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for a performance of Mahler’s Third Symphony. As the fledgling chorus grew, as did its list of collaborators – Pittsburgh Opera, the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh, and Pittsburgh Public Theater have all shared the stage with the group’s young musicians. PYC has also hosted artists of international acclaim, such as Kim Nazarian of New York Voices, Joe Negri (best known for his work on Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood), the Harlem Spiritual Ensemble, and Elisabeth von Trapp. Beyond its home in western PA, Pittsburgh Youth Chorus has taken young singers to Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Oregon, and the United Kingdom. An upcoming highlight is the opportunity to host Dr. Raymond Wise, gospel music specialist from Indiana University Bloomington, in 2021.
The magic of PYC is in the relationships – bonds between the young singers that rise from making music together, and then transform the music-making into a powerful and meaningful experience. Countless families have attested to how their lives have been touched as a result of being a part of the PYC family. Pittsburgh Youth Chorus is proud of its singers – past and present – and eager to continue serving our communities with programs that invest in the region’s cultural landscape and future leaders.
