About the JYC

since 2008

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The Jamaica Youth Chorale (JYC) is committed to the highest standard in the performance of choral music. Founded in December 2008, the JYC quickly emerged as one of the nation’s leading choirs being featured in many local, regional and international publications, productions and events to critical acclaim. This includes representing Jamaica at the World Choir Games - Championship level in South Africa; features on the BBC; Caribbean Passport; The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in the UK; and an annual concert season and recital. The Choir also released an album in 2021, SPIRIT: Spirituals & Other Sacred Works by Jamaican Composers available on all streaming platforms

The SATB choir consisting of members from across the island was founded and is lead by award winning conductor Greg Simms with Musical Direction by Dr. Kathy Brown, C.S. Walters and Dr. Odane Dawkins. 

Other team leaders include:

• Kimone Shepherd, Business Manager

• Anthony Morgan, Director – Communications

• Sherona Forrester, Director – Fundraising and Networking

Coming from the expanse of the Jamaican culture with unique innovations, the JYC’s repertoire is centered on but not limited to Jamaican and other Caribbean musical styles. A part of the Chorale’s mandate is to provide an opportunity for young composers and arrangers in choral music to present their works especially in Jamaican folk, spirituals, contemporary and any other work.

The Jamaica Youth Chorale operates as a voluntary service structure led by an Executive Committee with funding from concert performances, donations and sponsorship.