Relaunch of Only Kids Aloud Chorus Receives Further Hodge Foundation Funding

The Only Kids Aloud Chorus relaunches with open and free auditions running next month, thanks to extended funding from The Hodge Foundation.
The OKA Chorus was initially launched in 2011 to support and reinvigorate the Welsh choral tradition and effect real change in the lives of young people from areas of social deprivation.

The Only Kids Aloud Chorus is open to boys and girls currently in Years 5 and 6 who find singing makes a very real difference in their lives. Members benefit from memorable experiences such as performing at BBC Wales’ Proms in the Park and last year’s residential courses, held at Glan-llyn Activity Centre in Bala.

After the success of last year’s OKA pilot audition process and performances, The Hodge Foundation, which has also supported Aloud on several stand-alone projects over the years; has pledged a longer 18-month stint to run this year and into next.

It is a natural pairing for the Only Kids Aloud Chorus, which in the past, has performed in both Russia and Cape Town and the Hodge Foundation, which was established in 1962 by entrepreneur and banker Sir Julian Hodge. The Hodge Foundation’s aim is to support projects that have effective solutions to helping those most in need including supporting charities working with people to encourage positive experiences and self-worth leading to a better future to look forward to.

Full and partial bursaries are available in order to ensure accessibility for all and to cover the costs of a full 18-month programme of activities. Audition places are allocated on a first come first served basis and will include a group workshop and an individual audition with OKA Musical Director, Tim Rhys-Evans MBE.
Those interested should apply for an audition via the website and be available for the workshop dates listed.

Auditions will be held at Porth Eirias, Colwyn Bay on Saturday 23 March; Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Sunday 24 March; Pembroke College, Haverfordwest on Tuesday 26 March (evening) and Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Cardiff on Saturday 30 March.

Niall Allen; OKA Project Manager, said:

We’re absolutely delighted to have secured the support that enables our Only Kids Aloud Chorus to run for another 18 months. The Hodge Foundation’s belief in the initiative, and the life enhancing experience it offers, is greatly appreciated by Aloud and the many children who will benefit not only from membership of the Chorus, but by attending one of our free audition workshops. We can’t wait to start auditions in the coming weeks and see the wealth of talent the young people of Wales have to offer.

Speaking on behalf of the Hodge Foundation, Karen Hodge said:

We are delighted to continue to support Aloud with the relaunch of the Only Kids Aloud Chorus. The Aloud charity has an enthusiastic and dedicated team who are determined to give children in Wales more fulfilled opportunities in singing, making a wonderful contribution to the lives of children.