Chair’s report
This year has been particularly challenging for the choir and for me personally. The news of Craig’s retirement was sad and unsettling but offers us the chance for a review of what is working and what could be improved.
The 1[st] concert back after the break was Living Archive where the singers took part in two performances that celebrated all things Milton Keynes. It was also an opportunity to work with local artists and it was a great success. Since then, the choir have recorded Dig Where you Stand for the album, coming to a streaming serve near you!
Next, the singers moved on to St Nicholas. This was their opportunity to perform with MK Corale and this gave the choir a chance to show case their talent. Feedback was that they were amazing both in their conduct and their performance.
Working alongside other choirs and performers gives the singers greater exposure to other styles, conductors and exposure to new audiences.
Due to these big concerts, the committee decided that we would not do a Christmas concert this year due to the demands of these two performances but we took part in the usual fundraising carol singing. This year this was at Xscape, due to the lack of footfall through the building, donations were not as high as usual and atmosphere was lacking. However, you don’t know until you try and so the hunt begins for a new venue for Christmas 2025.
The choir’s year ended with a goodbye party for Criag. This was a really sad occasion but I think we did him proud. Many previous singers, parents and committee members attended and took part in the singing and the grand finale was a surprise rendition of “I don’t want to say Goodbye” originally sung by Craig’s band Fat and Frantic - never a truer word was sang. There were reports of a few tears spotted around the room.
David was appointed as the Musical Director following a round of interviewing and a trial and, he brings a lot of experience to the choir. The 2[nd] half of the year gave him a chance to settle and the choir has responded to him well.
Although there were no formal concerts after Christmas, a few singers had fun at Young Voices and they held an informal concert on the 8[th] July for family and friends. Funds were raised through the sale of cakes so thank you to all who donated. Their final performance was in the Campbell Park on the 13[th] of July, sounding amazing as always.
Membership has fluctuated and we have seen singers leave and new ones join. The AGM will give the committee a chance to reflect and decide on what next, this is the time to bring in any changes needed and ideas that David may have.
Personally, I would like to thank the committee for all their support to me during my challenging period; thank you Poppy, Stuart, Daniela, Chris and Elise. They do an amazing job in the smooth running of the choir.
I wish you all a relaxing summer and look forward to seeing the singers back in September.
Claire
MKYC secretary and chair
FY25 Milton Keynes Youth Choir Accounts
| Income | |
|---|---|
| Subs | 3353.57 |
| Transfer from previous Charity | 1593.5 |
| Donations | 430.06 |
| Grant | 800 |
| Concert | 0 |
| Concert Donation | 0 |
| Costs | |
| Accompanist | -2125.24 |
| Conductor | -2746.7 |
| Costs | -528.07 |
| Church Hire | -1056.23 |
| Young Voices | -501 |
| Grand Total | -780.11 |
| Total | |
|---|---|
| Income | 6177.13 |
| Costs | -6957.24 |
| Split for submission | |
| Donations and legacies | 430.06 |
| Charitable activities | 3353.57 |
| Other | 2393.5 |