Edward Cooke Family Law sponsors Farnham Youth Choir
27 March 2026
Established over 40 years ago, Farnham Youth Choir is an award-winning family of choirs with an international reputation. They offer exceptional vocal training and performance opportunities to young people aged 6 - 18 in and around the Farnham area.
As well as enjoying a shared love of singing, the members of Farnham Youth Choir benefit from the power of music and incredible transferable skills that music making offers. They forge strong connections, and through their performances across national and international stages, competitions and other opportunities, the choir support the growth and development of young people outside the classroom. Led by Artistic Director Patrick Barrett and supported by talented accompanists, assistant directors and conductors, and a team of dedicated trustees, we are proud to support them.
Melanie Hancox, Chaire of Trustees commented:
"We are delighted that Edward Cooke Family Law partnered with us in bringing this very special concert to Farnham. The presence of an FYC alum (Suzzie Vango) in Papagena is testament to the beneficial legacy that our choirs have on our young singers' lives. Many of them keep singing; some of them make their careers in music. Just as we keep young people at the heart of everything we do, so does Edward Cooke Family Law, working to find the best outcomes for families at their most difficult times."
Feedback from current members and alumni of the choirs, as well as the influential composers and musician's they collaborate with, demonstrates the positive impact on the young people they work with:
"Singing with FYC gave me the confidence to know that with hard work, I could achieve anything. And the best group of friends." Anna, maths undergraduate, University of Bath
"Learning to be a part of a team, learning to lead, learning the importance of commitment... all of these I got from my time with FYC" Rochelle, Junior Doctor
"Farnham Youth Choir is truly something to celebrate. The lives of the hundreds of young people have been enriched and their souls uplifted by the experience of singing under the inspirational direction of David Victor-Smith and his music team. They have learned not only about singing and music but about commitment, excellence, discipline and the value of group endeavour - lessons which will carry over into their later lives." John Rutter, Composer and Conductor
As a registered charity, Farnham Youth Choir rely on corporate sponsors to make the magic happen, so we are delighted to announce our support for them from the 2026 season. With a rolling membership of around 100 families, the choir has a significant impact on individuals and their families across the area.
Grace Parker-White, Director and Head of the Farnham office commented:
"I have seen first hand the exceptional performance skills and power of the connection between the choir members in Farnham Youth Choir and am delighted that we are able to support the excellent work that they do. The choirs are supported and developed by a team of dedicated professionals who are to be congratulated for building such a stellar reputation.
Their latest concert was a triumph. I was struck by the variety of pieces that the children have all learnt by heart, it was was incredibly impressive. We are really looking forward to continuing to attend their performances this year and to supporting the choir going forward."
Their exciting programme commenced with a wonderful concert on Saturday 14 March, a collaboration with the UK's premier all-female a cappella quintet Papagena, at St Thomas on the Bourne, Farnham. You can view Farnham Herald coverage here, and further information on future Farnham Youth Choir events can be found on their website: fyc.org.uk
