Our Mission

Inspired by the Young People's Chorus of New York City, the Young People's Chorus of Erie will provide children of diverse abilities and backgrounds a comprehensive choral music experience as a way to further their personal and artistic growth and to foster cross-cultural understanding.

With an emphasis on diversity, the YPC Erie will bring together young singers from across the spectrum of Erie's population. Representing a wide range of faiths, nationalities, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, and over 50 public, private, and parochial schools, young people from the greater Erie area will work, sing, and perform together within a structured and focused outlet for their artistic and creative energy. As a result, these children will develop musical skills and a sense of community and discipline, while forging life-long friendships.

About YPC ERIE

In residence at the School of Humanities at Penn State Erie, the Behrend College, the Young People's Chorus of Erie is the only comprehensive youth chorus program in northwestern Pennsylvania. Founded by artistic director Dr. Jason Bishop, Director of Choral Activities at Penn State Erie, the Behrend College, the Young People's Chorus of Erie is an affiliate of the internationally acclaimed, multicultural Young People's Chorus of New York City, led by founder and artistic director Francisco J. Núñez.

Northwest PA Choral Festival on November 1

Dr. Jason Bishop and Penn State Erie, the Behrend College, will host a choral festival on the Penn State Behrend campus on Saturday, November 1. Public and private school teachers in Erie County and throughout the region of northwest Pennsylvania are invited to participate in this inaugural event.

For more information on this event and other events, head over to Events.