About Us:

The idea in starting the Somerset Hills Children’s Chorus (whose name was changed, in 2002, to the New Jersey Youth Chorus), was to give the children of the community a unique opportunity. One that would involve quality repertoire, sound teaching, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and a chance to perform. Our mission, philosophy, and goals continue to revolve around that which is most important – the choristers and the music. It is far more than singing. We teach values, we nurture, we inspire.

“We are not teaching music to children“ said Trish Joyce, Founder and Artistic Director.--- We teach children through the power of music.  We have high musical expectations, and we strive for high standards of musical excellence.  We also believe that we should teach the whole person. To quote Helen Kemp – "body, mind, spirit, voice.”  We believe that through the choral art – through the NJYC choir family, the musical journey is about fellowship, compassion, commitment, taking risks, growing, nurturing, beauty, joy and passion.

We are here to inspire children to discover, learn and perform beyond their expectations.  As Eph Ely wrote, our goal is to "discover the extra in the ordinary.”