A Portsmouth children’s choir has fought off competition from thousands to be selected to perform at the Music for Youth Proms 2024 at the Royal Albert Hall.
Portsmouth Music Hub’s Cross Keys Choir were among thousands of performers from across the UK to take part in the National Music Festival in Birmingham in July. Their fine performance saw them shortlisted to 228 groups, and last week the young singers learned they are among only 26 groups chosen to perform on the iconic London stage in November.
Their fantastic achievement marks a first for Portsmouth, with the 54 young singers aged 7-16 representing the city on one of the most famous stages in the world.
The choir will sing two songs titled One World and Change Maker, composed by the Music Hub’s award-winning composition team. While the group perform the songs they will also use sign language to share key messages about the environment and the difference we can all make as change makers.
Portsmouth Music Hub is a partnership of organisations led by Portsmouth City Council’s Music Service, which offers musical opportunities, events, training, ensembles and music lessons in Portsmouth.
Cllr Suzy Horton, Portsmouth City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said:
“This is testament to the choir’s exceptional talent and dedication and this is a significant milestone, not just for Cross Keys but also for the city of Portsmouth.
“The young performers have worked tirelessly to reach this point, and their appearance at the Royal Albert Hall will be a memory they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.”
Kate Gardner from Music for Youth, added:
“Huge congratulations, it is very much deserved. It truly is a huge achievement and you should all be really proud.”
The Music for Youth Proms showcases the brilliance of young musicians from across the whole UK, and this year is taking place on 27-28 November.