Primo
Primo is the youngest entrance level ensemble. The choristers are introduced to music in an entertaining and interactive manner, blending movement, singing, speech, dance and drama, laying the foundations for a life-long love for music. Choristers will discover and develop their singing voice and establish an understanding of choral etiquette and deportment for learning and performing. This program offers open rehearsals where parents and friends are invited to observe their child’s learning experience. The Primo Choir has their own performance within the year; however, it is up to the discretion of the conductor to decide if the Primo Choir is ready to perform at the spring concert.
Dolce I consists of choristers who have an interest in singing and a desire to grow their musical voice, many of whom are former Primo participants. The choristers in this ensemble are able to match pitch and will learn strategies to further this skill. Choristers at this level learn increased control over their singing voice by using a variety of tools and techniques, such as breath control and enhanced listening. The choral repertoire allows the choristers to experience different genres of music. They are introduced to theory basics and how to read music, as well as solfege hand signs. Dolce I choristers are encouraged to be expressive in their responses to music while developing skills of deportment and etiquette for performances. The Dolce I choir performs 2-4 times a year.
Dolce ll
The Dolce II ensemble consists of Dolce I participants who have met the expectations of Dolce I. These choristers are able to match pitch, have an understanding of proper vocal technique and musical story-telling. Solfege hand signs are used to facilitate learning a melody or a voice part in choral music. At this level, the choristers will learn to sing in canon and be able to learn and hold simple parts to create harmonies. They will continue to develop their understanding of how to read music and navigate a score, and perform with expression accompanied by piano or other instruments to expand their musical colour palette in a variety of genres. Choristers are expected to master a high standard of performance etiquette. This ensemble performs 2-4 times a year.
Dolce
Cantabile
Cantabile is our intermediate ensemble for choristers who are comfortable matching pitches and holding harmonized melodies. In addition to solidifying the foundations of proper vocal technique, Cantabile choristers explore more challenging two and three-part music, and more advanced music theory. This choir performs up to five times per season. This ensemble participates in a two-day retreat and various community performances, in addition to an annual multi-junior-choir workshop, where they learn from and listen to other choirs, build friendships, and work with international guest conductors.
Encore is the senior ensemble of the YVT family and choristers are expected to have an understanding of proper vocal production, a developing sense of musicianship and strong leadership abilities. Encore explores a wide range of challenging choral literature from a broad range of genres, cultures and traditions. The Encore season includes a two-night retreat and up to six performances per season including the multi-senior-choir workshop held in the GTA. This ensemble is also the touring ensemble of YVT. We strive to embark on either a provincial, national or international performance tour each season.
Encore
Chorister Council
Every year, YVT choristers elect representatives to represent the choristers and provide an important youth voice in the running of YVT. Chorister council plans special events, retreat days, and work with administration, faculty, and volunteers to build community, promote socialization, and friendships among choristers. Chorister council representatives also take on a leadership role, ensuring they set a positive example for other choristers in all aspects of chorister life. Taking on a leadership role, and setting a good example for choristers with regard to behaviour, attitude, and musicianship.
Apprenticeships will be awarded to choristers in Encore and Cantabile who show a particular interest in both the pedagogical and performance aspects of our program. Participation in this program can also go towards any necessary community service or volunteer hours that high school choristers may require.
Apprenticeship Program
