A SEARCH has launched across Peeblesshire to find new National Choir Singers. 

The National Youth Choir of Scotland (NYCoS) has announced that applications to join are now open to all from the ages of 10 to 25.

The four national choirs comprise of: National Youth Choir of Scotland (Aged between 16-25), NYCos Training Choir (Aged 16-19), NYCos National Boys Choir (Ages 10-16), and the NYCoS National Girls Choir (Aged 12-16).

As one of the leading choir groups in the UK, the National Youth Choir of Scotland was recognised in 2012 with the Ensemble award from the Royal Philharmonic Society.

The vocalists has also made several appearances with the likes of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Kronos Quartet to name a few. 

The singers past success has propelled them to feature at key events including the Edinburgh International Festival, MTV Europe Music Awards and the Glasgow XX Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony.

Every three years, the group embarks on an international tour, with previous destinations including Germany, Slovakia and the USA.

Members from both the NYCoS National Boys and Girls Choirs are among the most promising young singers in Scotland. They receive expert vocal tuition and develop invaluable musicianship skills to ensure they can sing to the highest standard. 

David Fettes, marketing and communications officer at the National Youth Choir of Scotland, said: "We're appealing to all young singers across Peebles and the surrounding areas as we set out to recruit the very best emerging talent.

"Those enthusiastic about signing will have the opportunity to take their passion to the highest level and contribute to the ongoing success of our choirs."

Further high profile performances by the choirs have ranged from various BBC TV and radio broadcasts at BBC Proms in the Park, to events at the Aberdeen International Youth Festival and Lammermuir Festival.

Applications are open to all between the ages of 10 and 25, who are born, resident or studying in Scotland, or of Scottish descent. Following a successful auction, world-renowned conductor Christopher Bell, the basis of the Choirs' activities stems from a week-long residential course of high quality, vocal coaching and singing lessons from top-flight professional singers, plus full choir rehearsals and recreation time.

Those interested in joining the National Youth Choir of Scotland, applications are open until October 14. Visit www.nycos.co.uk to apply.