Choir youngsters win when they’re singing

By CARLY LEWTHWAITE

Published on Tue Nov 02 13:04:56 GMT 2010

PETERBOROUGH(LONDON), UK — OFFERING opportunities for all is
something that Peterborough excels in as a city. Peterborough Young
Singers is just one of many shining examples. CARLY LEWTHWAITE went
along to find out more.

WHEN it comes to hobbies and activities for young people, they
have the world at their feet, from sports and technology to new
media and music.

However, when it comes to singing, it can be hard to find
somewhere to go.

Peterborough Young Singers has been running for 17 years, and
meets every Saturday morning at East Community Centre in Padholm
Road.

Founded by Fergus Black, arts development director for the
city, it was originally known as Peterborough Children’s Choir and
was intended for children aged eight to 13.

Events co-ordinator Melanie Hurcombe explained that they had to
increase the age limit after three years, because members did not
want to leave!

“When they got to the maximum age they wanted to stay on, so we
extended the exit age to 21,” she said.

“Even after they have left to go to university most come back
during their time off. We often have visitors, it’s really
lovely.”