The Urban Vocal Group has had one of its busiest years since it formed in 2008
With record attendances and the most hectic gig schedule ever the group has established itself as one of the most succesfull music projects for young people in South Hampshire. This is testament to the hard work and dedication of it's young singers and their tutors and volunteers who work tirelessley every week to produce our fantastic sound (and have a lot of fun in the process!).
This years we also welcomed 17 new singers to our ranks and have performed 13 times at a variety of prestigious venues. The group have have recieved praise and recognition from industry professionals,local and national politicians, teachers and youth organisations; all of whom have cited the work that we do in developing lifeskills in young people. We passionately believe that participation in music is one of the most attractive and productive way to engage young people and by doing so help them to aspire and achieve. Moreover the emerging talent coming out of the group is beginning to make its mark on the wider musical community with our singers writing and performing their own material, forming bands or auditioning for existing ones. With such talented young people the future of music in Portsmouth is in safe hands!
Highlights of our year include:
over 1700 attendances at rehearsals, recording sessions and performances
5 new compositions
Becoming a registered charity
Our first Arts Award accreditation
A guest performance with BRIT Award winners BLAKE
A performance in front of HRH The Princess Royal
A sellout concert at Portsmouth's Wedgewood Rooms
I am immensely proud of the work that we do and that we provide it free of charge to the young people. We hope that 2014 is bigger and better although if it's only as good as this year - that'll do!
Comment from David Willets MP – Minister of State for Universities and Science
“The Urban Vocal Group is a really special music charity based in Havant which works with young people aged 11-18. It offers free singing and performance opportunities regardless of ability of experience, attracting a diverse group from across the educational and social spectrum. I do believe that participating in the Arts provides a tool for developing vocational skills and aspiration in young people. Many of these young people face considerable disadvantages, but with the encouragement of this Group, some of them have gone on to study music at college or embark on music careers. The Urban Vocal Group appears to be growing in strength, and I am looking forward to my visit early next year to observe them in action for myself and meeting those involved”