Meet the team
Passion, expertise and a belief in what young voices can achieve
Cally and Simon both discovered their love of music through singing in choirs as children, before going on to study together at the Royal Northern College of Music. Their combined experience spans professional performance, music education, choral conducting and accompaniment, including work with leading choirs and opera festivals, schools and arts organisations.
Now based in Altrincham with their young families, they are passionate about creating outstanding musical opportunities for local children and helping the next generation of singers to thrive.
Cally Youdell
Artistic Director & Vocal Coach
Cally's own love of choral singing began at just seven years old, when she joined Chester Music Society Junior Choir. From there, her musical journey took her to Dublin as a choral scholar at Christ Church Cathedral, followed by a first-class degree in Vocal Studies at the RNCM and a Master's in Early Music Singing from the Royal Conservatoire of The Hague.
As a professional singer, Cally has performed with leading ensembles and conductors on international stages. Now, as a mum herself, she is passionate about giving young singers the kind of inspiring, high-quality choral training that shaped her own musical life - helping children discover their voices, grow in confidence and experience the joy of making music together.
Cally will conduct the AYC Junior Choir.
Simon Passmore
Musical Director & Pianist
Simon’s musical journey began at Hexham Abbey, joining the choir at just six years old as the youngest chorister in its 1300-year history. He went on to study piano at the RNCM under Murray McLachlan, before completing the college’s opera répétiteur course on a full scholarship, working closely with singers and vocal coaches. At the RNCM, Simon was the recipient of numerous piano prizes, including the Alfred Clay award for the highest final recital mark.
Alongside seven years as Director of Music at St Ann’s Church in Manchester, Simon teaches full-time at Chetham’s School of Music. He is also a specialist in MIDI programming, and has worked on-call for several high-profile film composers in London and Los Angeles.
Living here with his family in Altrincham, he brings a wealth of choral and accompanying experience to AYC, providing a foundation for young singers to develop their ear, grow in confidence, and enjoy making music together.
Simon will conduct the AYC Senior Choir.
Have a question for Cally or Simon?
Feel free to send us an email on info@altrinchamyouthchoir.co.uk