Excellence in choral singing is the goal of Central Illinois Youth Chorus
Founded in 1978, CIYC (formerly CICC) provides choral music instruction, vocal training, and performance opportunities for singers in kindergarten through twelfth grade.
The chorus includes four choir levels (see below) and draws members from communities within a 60-mile radius of Champaign-Urbana.
Members are taught sound vocal technique, musicianship, musical styles, and performance etiquette. They learn repertoire covering a diverse range of music, languages, and composers.
CIYC singers present annual concerts in winter and spring, perform with area orchestras and with the University of Illinois School of Music, and participate in choral festivals, as well as community, corporate, and private events.
Most importantly, CIYC choristers experience the joy, discipline, pride, and teamwork of high-quality choral singing.
Central Illinois Youth Chorus is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation and is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency. CIYC’s main funding, however, comes from tuition, contributions, community grants, and fund-raising events. Tuition assistance is available for singers demonstrating financial need. CIYC does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission, access, or employment.
Central Illinois Youth Chorus offers four choirs to meet the needs and interests of its choristers: Music Makers is a choir for younger singers, designed to nurture a love for singing while developing the child’s musical skills. Concert Choir is the intermediate-level choir.Chamber Choir is the advanced treble choir. Youth Chorale is a small ensemble for advanced, high school singers.