The Ames Youth Choir (AYC, formerly Ames Children’s Choirs) was founded in 1995, by Dr. Sylvia Munsen, the former Artistic Director of 16 years until June 2011. AYC program includes boys and girls ages 7-18 from central Iowa communities singing in four choirs: Concert Choir, Singers, Chorale, and Preparatory Choir. . AYC focuses on the development of self-esteem through artistic experience. It is a notable and well respected children’s choral society. Its accomplishments are detailed in AYC concerts/events. Currently, AYC programs are under the direction of Mrs. Jodi Frisbie Reese and Mrs. Erika Johnson.
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Preparatory Choir is the beginning level ensemble for boys and girls ages 7-8. Rehearsals are held on Mondays from 4:30-5:25 pm. The choir performs in the annual holiday and spring concerts and performs an additional concert each semester locally.
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Chorale is the intermediate level ensemble for boys and girls ages 9-11. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 5:30-6:45 pm. The choir performs in the annual holiday and spring concerts and performs additional concerts throughout the year. The Chorale conducts a one day tour performing in Central Iowa schools and also serves as the host for the Celebrate Singing Choral Festival.
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Concert Choir is the advanced level ensemble comprised of experienced treble voices, ages 12-18. Rehearsals are held Tuesdays from 5:30-7:30pm. Concert Choir serves as the host for the Midwest Children’s Choir Festival.
Concert Choir performs extensively and conducts an annual tour every year, often rotating between regional, national, and international tours.
The ages described for each choir are general guidelines—final decision is made by the Artistic Director depending on the singer’s experience and vocal maturity.