The Harlem Choir, which is part of the NYC School system, is an intense program for boys and girls of all skill levels. The choir is a difficult program to be accepted into, and an incredibly demanding course routine starting with early morning studies that finish by 2:30, and then rehearsal that runs until 6:30 in the evening. To be accepted, children start to audition around the ages of 8 or 9 and are accepted for the next four years. The auditioning process takes place again once the children reach the age of 12 or 13 to decide whether they can continue with the choir. Once they make it through the second auditions they stay on up to the ages of 17 or 18. Every child studies voice, and many take lessons with instruments. The student body, consisting of 400-500 students, is well disciplined and all receive individual attention from teachers that are extremely dedicated. While in the choir, the children travel all over the country giving concerts, and are well known for their talent and enthusiasm. Once their time at the Choir Academy is complete they're fully prepared for further education at a University.