Page 19 - BYC Xmas Concert Program 2021

The Visit of the
TUKS Camerata (RSA) 20th – 25th July 2022
We are absolutely delighted to announce that we have secured a visit of one of the finest choirs in the world. Dr. Michael Barrett’s choir, TUKS Camerata from the University of Pretoria, will visit Barnsley in July 2022 and take part in a number of rehearsals, workshops and concerts with BYC. TUKS Camerata were crowned World Champions in the 2014 World Choir Games and have an international reputation for excellence.
TUKS Camerata and BYC have developed a close relationship that began in 2016 at the World Choir Games in Sochi, Russia. Michael Barrett and Mat Wright worked on the international
jury together and shared similar values. They agreed that they would seek opportunities to bring the two organisations together. In the 2017 European Choir Games TUKS and BYC competed but also took part in workshops and a friendship concert together, and the choirs developed
a special and lasting bond. It was a profound connection and one that has lasted ever since.
Mat travelled to work with TUKS in 2018 and Dr. Barrett then visited Barnsley and led what were perhaps 3 of the finest concerts the choir has ever taken part in. Then, in 2019, BYC were lucky enough to travel to South Africa and meet up once again with TUKS Camerata.
We took part in joint rehearsals, workshops and concerts together and this was a highlight of the trip. Whilst on tour we were fortunate to work with some exceptional choirs and leaders, but perhaps the most important connection for members and adults was the one that was further cemented in Pretoria.
We are looking forward to extending a warm welcome to this choir and reciprocating the kindness that they showed our young people back in 2018. I am sure that concert tickets will sell very quickly, and those who attend will be assured of some world class singing.
Mat Wright Artistic Director
Christmas Concert 2021
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