The Augusta Children's Chorale soon will perform in Carnegie Hall, perhaps America's most venerated musical venue.

As participants in the Field Studies International Choral Festival, 40 of the chorale's 44 members will sing Sunday at the New York City concert hall.

Since it was founded in 1991 by Executive Director Linda Bradberry, the chorale has performed in Prague, Czech Republic; at Disney World; in Germany; Hawaii; Washington, D.C.; and twice at Carnegie Hall.

On this trip, however, it is the featured choir.

"We've been twice before, but we've never been the featured choir, and that's what makes it a notch above," Mrs. Bradberry said.

Event organizers chose the chorale based on its recorded performances of the past two years, Mrs. Bradberry said.

The significance of the honor is one that will remain with the young singers the rest of their lives, she said.

"The history of Carnegie Hall and the people who have gone before us goes with performing there," Mrs. Bradberry said. "There is something overwhelming when you enter that building. It kind of sweeps down over you and washes you with all that history."

A trip to New York doesn't come cheap. It will cost each performer about $1,400 to take part, chorale business manager Gayle Crawford said.

To help offset the cost, children have sold poinsettias and cookie dough. Recently, Columbia County Commission donated $2,500 for the trip.

Still, the expense pales when compared to the enrichment of the experience for the young singers, Mrs. Crawford said.

"Just to be able to say, 'I sang at Carnegie Hall' is amazing," she said.

Reach Donnie Fetter at (706) 868-1222, ext. 115, or donnie.fetter@augustachronicle.com.