Founded out of necessity
In the mid 70’s, Eileen Finley was asked to prepare a select group from her school chorus to participate in Neshaminy High School’s annual musical production. The musical, “Hans Christian Anderson,” included a significant role for a children’s chorus. Throughout the production, the choir parents happily transported the children to rehearsals and performances, provided costumes, and purchased tickets. After the final performance, a student came to Ms. Finley and asked, “So, what do we do now?” With the impetus of that question and the encouragement of the choir parents, the PYC was born.
Here to stay
Eventually, the choir incorporated under the name “Children’s Choir of Bucks County.” Later, as the program grew to include more students from Montgomery and Philadelphia counties, the name officially changed to “The Pennsylvania Youth Chorale.”
Founding Director Eileen Finley retired at the end of the choir’s 40th year, in 2017. Current Artistic Director Kelly Wyszomierski looks forward to a long future working with this remarkable choral program.