USF Selects First Youth Choir In Residence

Gulf Coast Youth Choirs (GCYC), a nonprofit choral arts organization serving the Tampa Bay region, has been selected to be the first youth choir in residence at the University of South Florida. Founded in 1992, GCYC includes more than 150 students in six choirs. 

"The connection between GCYC and USF is a long one," says Dr. Rodney Shores, a conductor for Gulf Coast Youth Choirs. "With the recent construction of the new USF School of Music building, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to officially ratify our informal relationship with the university. "

GCYC will rehearse and perform at USF's new music building, and study with USF educators. Children who participate in GCYC's choirs range from first grade through high school. Auditions are still being held for those interested in trying out for one of the choirs.

"The language of music is an intuitive language, one in which those who struggle with basic communication skills have the opportunity to share," says Shore. "At GCYC, our goal is to connect all qualifying students with opportunities to stretch their musical skills, to become ever more excellent musicians. "

Those interested in auditioning for GCYC should contact the organization's office at 813-909-0044 for more information. Upcoming concert dates include a fall concert at Sacred Heart Church in downtown Tampa on October 28^th, as well as an annual holiday concert at Tampa Covenant Church on December 3^rd.

Writer: Kimberly Patterson
Source: Rodney Shores, Gulf Coast Youth Choirs