Charlotte Youth Choir launches into “The Journey” at the concert on May 14

The Arts+ Charlotte Youth Choir, comprised of K-12 students, will perform their annual Spring Concert on May 14 at 7 p.m. at Myers Park Presbyterian Church.

The show titled “The Journey” explores the journey of life through heartfelt and uplifting songs.

“We consider everything we have learned over the years,” said Wes Smith, Director of Arts+ Music Programs and Acting Artistic Director of the Charlotte Youth Choir. “We look forward with hope to a future that we dream of having. Through song, we acknowledge life’s ups and downs and dig deep to find the motivation, joy and courage to step forward into the unknown.

The show includes a guest performance by Charlotte-based singer, songwriter and producer Karen Poole. Born into a family of musicians and songwriters in Virginia, Poole moved to Charlotte in 2017.

Poole, who studied psychology at Norfolk State University in Virginia, wanted to combine his passions in the field of mental health with his love for music and hopes to one day create music therapy for people struggling with mental health issues. . A freelance contemporary gospel artist and worship leader, Poole’s music incorporates a diverse mix of gospel, jazz and R&B.
Poole’s debut EP ‘Life Lessons’ was released in 2010 but she recently released her latest album ‘Hidden’ in February 2021. Although music is her passion, Poole, who works in banking, has had to take a break. singing full time after the pandemic swept the country. She hopes to one day get back to writing and producing music full time.

Poole will perform some of his own music at the concert and join the youngsters in a gospel number to close the show. She will also act as a mentor to the students and give advice during rehearsals.

“I just remember when I was a kid, being inspired by some of my heroes. I loved learning and being influenced,” Poole said. “I felt like I could do anything when I saw them. do the things I love to do. I look forward to having the same kind of impact. We’ll do Q&As during rehearsals… so I can answer their questions and share some of my own experiences.

In addition to the guest performance, the concert will feature an original composition by Charlotte native Sherry Belvins, as well as music from Indonesia, Scotland, jazz standards and more.

Originally founded in 1986, the goal of the Charlotte Youth Choir was to build community and provide accessible choral education to young people. CYC works diligently to ensure that each student is not just another voice in the crowd. They feel that each voice is unique, regardless of their origin.

The choir rehearses regularly, improving their music reading skills while broadening their understanding of the world.

To celebrate 35 years of choral excellence, the choir officially changed its name from Charlotte Children’s Choir to Charlotte Youth Choir to reflect the total makeup of the student body involved in the ensemble. They also wanted to honor the growth and development of each student at Arts+.

“CYC is a place where Charlotte-area youth can learn and grow as young singers and individuals,” Smith said. “We provide a space for singers to discover new and diverse music, learn to better control their voice and express themselves. Our choirs are also a community and a kind of family, connecting singers from all over the region around a goal common to make music together.