National Youth Choir of Scotland launches a new Glasgow choir in its 30th year

The National Youth Choir of Scotland has marked its 30th anniversary year by launching a brand new regional choir in Glasgow, giving more children across the city the chance to discover the joy of singing together.

The NYCOS Glasgow Choir held its first rehearsal on 16 September 2026. It is open to children in P4 to P7, welcoming both experienced singers and those who have never sung in a choir before.

Alongside weekly rehearsals, singers receive musicianship training rooted in the Kodaly approach, a child-centred method that builds musical understanding through singing, listening, movement and games. Rather than focusing only on learning songs, children develop skills such as rhythm, pitch, listening and inner hearing, with repertoire carefully chosen to suit their age and stage.

Choir members can expect to explore a wide range of styles, from folk songs and world music to classical repertoire and contemporary works, reflecting both Scotland's musical heritage and the diversity of the communities NYCOS serves.

For three decades, NYCOS has championed the belief that singing should be accessible to everyone. Through its national and regional choirs, training programmes and educational work, it has supported thousands of young people to grow as musicians while building confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging. Its choirs now cater for young people from birth to 25.

The organisation believes group singing has never been more important, at a time when opportunities for collective music-making have declined for many young people. In a choir, children learn to listen carefully, work together and contribute to a shared goal.

Christopher Bell, founder and artistic director of NYCOS, said the organisation has spent 30 years giving young people the chance to sing together and experience all the musical and personal benefits that come with it, and the new Glasgow Choir is an exciting step forward in that mission. Singing, he said, builds confidence, develops musical skills and creates friendships.

NYCOS regional choirs meet once a week during term time, led by experienced music teachers and choir leaders. Entry is usually in P4 each September, but the organisation is always keen to hear from singers aged 8 to 17.

Families interested in the NYCOS Glasgow Choir can find details and contact the team through nycos.co.uk.