YPC is an award-winning youth chorus recognized internationally, not only for its superb virtuosity and brilliant showmanship, but as a model for an inclusive society that is being replicated globally. Founded 25 years ago on a mission of diversity and artistic excellence by Artistic Director Francisco J. Núñez, a MacArthur “Genius” Fellow, this groundbreaking program harnesses the power of music to fulfill the potential of every child and has dramatically heightened an awareness of the unlimited capacity of a young choir to rise to unforeseen levels of artistry. More than 1,200 children from ages 7 to 18 participate annually through YPC’s core after-school program, its Satellite program in New York City public schools, national affiliates, and its first after-school community chorus in New York City’s Washington Heights. YPC collaborates with many of today’s finest artists, composers, and cultural institutions and accepts invitations from presenters on four continents. YPC has performanced in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Hiroshima, and Tokyo. YPC is in residence at Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, and among its many awards is the nation’s highest honor for youth programs – a National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award – presented to YPC by First Lady Michelle Obama.
