Archive
2011
Knox Carols by Candlelight
Dec 3 2011
Once again the Choir took part in the Knox Carols by Candlelight at the Ferntree Gully Recreation Reserve, complete with the Army Band Melbourne, Santa and of course fireworks. Many parents chose to attend as well, and even a little light rain couldn't dampen everyone's enthusiasm.
This year's guests included Gina Jeffreys and Jay La'Gaia. Our thanks to all parents and choristers for your time and effort, we know it is a busy time of the year and we really appreciate it.
Wedding
Nov 26 2011
The Youth Chorale were priviledged to contribute to Ebony and Justin's wedding on Saturday, held at the Knox Tavern.
It was a wonderful occasion, and the second time in the last couple of years that the choir has performed at the wedding of someone connected with the choir. The Youth Chorale also sang at Vicky and Michael's wedding last year.
We all wish Ebony and Justin well for the future!
End of Year Concert
Nov 19 2011
The End-of-Year Concert held on Saturday evening at Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University, was a resounding success. It was also the first End-of-Year Concert held under the banner of the choir's new name, Southern Voices. An appreciative audience were treated to a selection of songs taken from the stage, collectively themed "On Broadway"
We appreciate the massive effort from all staff and choristers involved, and especially our parent body for their time.
This concert also marked the first performance for our new Monbulk choristers - and what a way to start!
St Joseph's Primary School Fete
Nov 4 2011
The Keysborough Concert Choir performed at the St Joseph's Primary School Fete, in front of a good and appreciative crowd of choir parents and the local school community. It was especially exciting for the choristers who attend the school!
A special thanks to Carol who approached Southern Voices with this opportunity to perform. It is these kinds of performances that not only give the choristers extra experience, but also raise the community's awareness of our choir.
Spring Carnival Dance
Oct 15 2011
The Ferntree Gully Mar Shere Dance academy was the setting for an enjoyable and very entertaining night out on Saturday night. Participants learned to cha-cha, samba and horse race their way through an evening full of thrills, spills and singing that also included Fashions on the Field, raffle prizes and a dance competition.
A massive thank you to Tasha for all her work organising the event, assisted by many others. Also a big thank you to Dan for his accompanying skills, and all in the Youth Chorale who helped, and sang and danced.
New Rowville venue
Oct 13 2011
After a long and fruitful association with the Rowville Baptist Church, Southern Voices will be moving our Rowville venue to the Salvation Army Centre in Kingsley Close, off Stud Road. The new venue has several large rooms, is extremely new and promises to be a most exciting new rehearsal place for us.
We ask that parents see their children all the way into rehearsal, as parking arrangements are slightly different.
ACCord Concert 2011
Sep 18 2011
The Rowville Training Choirs and Concert Choir participated in the Australian Children's Choir ACCord concert at Tintern Girl's College, Ringwood, on Sunday. The annual concert has as its focus the training of young choristers, and is mostly a performance by various training groups from several choirs.
As always several parents stayed to attend the concert, and their support is very much appreciated, along with the efforts of our music staff.
Choir Camp 2011
Aug 26 to 28 2011
The peaceful surrounds of Mt Evelyn were once again given the Southern Voices treatment over the weekend. The annual camp enables the music staff to rehearse the equivalent of half a term in three days - a mighty effort by staff and students.
Highlights included the Variety Concert, many choristers dressing up as a character from a musical, the great food and reveille being blasted out of a trumpet by Andrew. Camp directors John and Rhonda were impressed with the behaviour of our choristers, and we thank our hard working staff for their efforts over the camp.
ABC radio recording at Iwaki Auditorium
Aug 9 2011
On Tuesday night the 2011 Touring Choir got back together for a one off performance at the Iwaki Auditorium, Southbank, where they participated in a recording for the "Music Makers" radio show. This will be broadcast on ABC radio this Sunday at 12.05pm.
This performance underlined the premise that nothing gives young choristers a world of experience like a tour does - the Touring Choir were able to adapt to the different surroundings with ease. Special guest on the show was Richard Gill, Music Director of the Victorian Opera and a leading music educator, and he gave a glowing endorsement of the choir and the benefits of being in it.
Monbulk Audition Day
July 23 2011
A friendly group of parents and prospective choristers attended Monbulk Primary School throughout Saturday. Sharon was assisted by Sally, Tash K and Karen Noonan who will staff the new venue. Our thanks go to the principal of the school who was there at the start of the day to unlock the building personally.
When the new Monbulk Community Hub is completed, the choir will move into it's new Monbulk home. The new Training Choristers will have the End of Year Concert to look forward to as their first performance!
Sydney Tour
July 14 - 18 2011
The Touring Choir spent a whirlwind five days in the exciting city of Sydney, singing at Darling Harbour, St Ambrose Church in Concord West and of course the famous Sydney Opera House in front of thousands of people. It was without doubt an extremely successful tour, and will be an unforgettable experience for all involved.
Andrew, Sharon and Cameron were impressed with the wonderful spirit and behaviour displayed by our choristers, and the fact that the choir's manners and attitude were complimented many times throughout the tour. In particular we would all like to thank the senior choristers who stepped up to help whenever necessary, always with a positive attitude and a desire to make the tour a success.
Highlights included a coach tour of the city on day one, including Bondi Beach, shopping almost every day, our lovely hotel, rehearsing and performing with choirs from all over Australia and America, singing in the Opera House, and taking a ferry ride from Circular Quay.
A tour diary will be online soon, so everyone can see the wonderful sights we saw!
Mid-Year Concert
July 2 2011
All Concert Choir and Youth Chorale choristers participated in the Level Three Mid-Year Concert at the Police Academy Chapel, attended by hundreds of parents and members of the general public. It was a very successful concert, with a wide range of repertoire presented.
The entire second half was taken up with a complete performance of Rutter's "Mass of the Children," the work the Touring Choir will be performing in Sydney in a couple of weeks. Our thanks to all staff and parents for their support.
We also said farewell to Ebony and Meridee, after great work with the Choir.
Training Choir Concert
June 25 2011
Saturday saw a very successful concert at the Keysborough venue, incorporating all the Training Choirs and special guests the Youth Chorale. For some of the Training choristers, it was their first ever performance!
This concert was also the first official Southern Voices concert. It was very well attended, with members of the Youth Chorale helping with sundry tasks as usual, which makes a big difference to the smooth running of these kinds of events.
Eisteddfod By The Bay
June 16 2011
On Thursday night the Youth Chorale competed in the Eisteddfod by the Bay at Moorabbin Town Hall, in the Open Age Choral section. They placed third, which is especially exciting considering they were competing against choirs totally made up of adults.
The adjudicator, Trevor Jones, had some supportive comments to say regarding the Chorale's intonation and choice of repertoire. A special thanks to Sharon and Dan, and a sad farewell to Marita L who took part in her last performance with Youth Chorale!
Keysborough and Berwick audition days
June 4 and 18 2011
A healthy number of interested parents and children spent their audition times at Keysborough and Berwick singing, listening and finding out more about the Choir. Sharon made sure the potential choristers enjoyed their musical activities, and Andrew gave a brief talk as usual regarding the Choir.
Thanks to Julian at Keysborough and Marita at Berwick, Thomas B and our Choir mascot Lachlan for helping on these days.
Rowville audition day
April 2 2011
Bright sun and friendly faces greeted the parents and auditionees at this year's audition day for the Rowville venue. As each group of children auditioned with Sharon, Andrew gave a brief run down on the Choir to the waiting parents. Nobody cried! (amongst the children, as well as the parents)
Special thanks to Stef C and Thomas B from the Youth Chorale who helped out on the day, and to Lachlan B whose main job was keeping everyone on their toes. He did it very well.
Relay for Life
March 26 2011
The Youth Chorale performed as part of the Relay for Life fundraiser, run by the Cancer Council of Australia. This is an annual event that raises fund for cancer research, and helps boost community awareness of cancer in general.
There were many positive comments about the Youth Chorale's singing, and the repertoire was very well received. Thanks to Sharon and Dan who were staffing the event, and a special thank you to Marita L for organising this great opportunity for us!
Sunbury wedding
February 19 2011
The girls of the Youth Chorale sounded excellent in the luxurious surrounds of Rupertswood Mansion, on the grounds of Selesian College Bundoora over the weekend. They sang, clapped and processed their way through a very enjoyable wedding, and even learned a new arrangement quickly for the occasion.
Both Andrew and Sharon would like to thank the parents and choristers who drove all the way out to Sunbury. It was a good experience for our choristers, and a wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Back to work
February 7 2011
Rehearsals begin this week, for all parts of the Choir. Many young choristers have been itching to get back to Choir, and it is finally here.
Parents, it will be easy to stay up to date with the newsletter handed out this week. It contains information on hot weather policy, online payment details and our new email address. An updated uniform list and order form will be available shortly.
Southern Voices - a new beginning!
January 1 2011
Happy New Year to everyone in our community, from the management and staff of Southern Voices! 2011 promises to be a big year for us, as we travel to Sydney, organise tours for further afield in the near future, enrol new choristers and generally enjoy choral music and the learning process.
This year will see a few changes to our concert schedule, including a separate Training One and Two Mid-year Concert in place of the old Prelude Concert earlier in the year. We will also be changing our recruitment days slightly. Keep checking your notices for information throughout our busy year.
Our new Southern Voices logo incorporates many design elements of the winning chorister's design, submitted by Rachel L. We believe it displays who we are and where we are from. Our new name will also be a lot easier to remember.
Make sure you take a look at the Choir calendar to see what is coming up. See you soon!
2010
Carols on the Keys 2010
December 18 2010
Early in the day the management team for the Lighthouse Carols took the decision to move everything indoors, with the result that the Carols on the Keys could go ahead despite the weather being bad. The Rowville Concert Choir participated and had a great time.
Vicky, Cam and Andrew ensured the choristers sounded professional and were well presented, and many parents stayed to watch the festivities. When the raffle was drawn, almost every prize went to the choir...
This was in fact the very last performance of the National Children's Choir of Australia - as of next year our name change will come into effect.
Monash Carols washed out
December 18 2010
After a lot of preparation and a very wet sound check, the Monash Carols were officially called off at 7.00pm on Sunday. This was to be the first time the Youth Chorale performed at these carols, so we look forward to hopefully participating next year.
A special thank you goes out to the parents and staff who showed up on time every time, despite pouring rain and blustery conditions. In the end the right decision was made, as the stage was unsafe to use and no one wants to wind up singing underwater! As the event is so large it is impossible to move it indoors, so the organisers are at the mercy of inclement weather.
Ferny Creek Carols 2010
December 11 2010
The weather almost held off for another evening of carols, dancing and bands amongst the trees in Sassafras. The Youth Chorale sang their way through a selection of community carols and their own repertoire, but the Hallalujah Chorus was more like Singing in the Rain!
As always the event was organised by Karen Noonan, who ensured everyone involved had a good time. A number of Choir parents attended come hail or shine, and the event lived up to its reputation as the most laid back and informal of our carols gigs.
Proceeds raised go towards the Sassafras and Ferny Creek CFA.
Knox Carols 2010
December 4 2010
The Keysborough Concert Choir joined the Youth Chorale in performing at the Knox Carols, in the Ferntree Gully Recreation Reserve last Saturday evening. Once again the weather was superb, the Army Band Melbourne sounded fantastic and we sounded great too!
Special guests this year included Kate Cerebrano with her little daughter onstage, Brian Nankervis as MC and of course Santa. The Choir's solo bracket was received well, and we look forward to returning to the event with a new name.
Sydney Tour announced
November 30 2010
A combined Southern Voices concert choir will tour to Sydney in July 2011, to participate in a performance of Rutter's "Mass for the Children." This choral event will take place at the famous Sydney Opera House, and will doubtless be a memory the chidren will cherish for a very long time.
The touring choir will consist of no more than 35 choristers, and must be well balanced. Information regarding tour costs and other matters has been circulated to parents, and we are now accepting expressions of interest. The tour will also take in the sights and sounds of Australia's second best city, including a visit to the famous aquarium.
Be a part of the Choir's first tour to Sydney!
Songs From Downunder
November 20 2010
Robert Blackwood Hall was the setting for an engaging and successful concert, designed to showcase the skills of the entire Choir. This year the theme referenced Australian music, and music used in the Australian media.
Standouts this year were the Youth Chorale's rendition of the Maori hymn "He Honore," the happy faces of the Training choristers, and guest artists on pipe organ and bouzouki. Thanks as always to our fabulous staff and the support of our parent body.
The concert DVD is available now, and was produced by Mobile Video Services.
McHappy Day 2010
November 13 2010
The Youth Chorale participated in one of the largest fundraisers held in Victoria last Saturday, helping the community raise much needed support for Ronald McDonald House. They sang extremely well, especially considering Noble Park McDonalds is not a recognised concert venue!
At the conclusion of the performance, the entire choir were treated to a free meal and showbag. The choristers were delighted to help such a good cause, on a happy and enjoyable day.
We look forward to participating in next year's event.
ACCord Concert
October 24 2010
The Rowville Concert Choir performed a bracket at the ACCord Concert of choirs, organised by the Australian Children's Choir, and held at Luther College in Croydon Hills. They were part of a varied and exciting lineup, showcasing the talents of many of Melbourne's children's choirs.
Feedback from the organisers has been very positive, and we will definitely perform at this event again next year. Many of the Rowville parents bought tickets and stayed to see the concert, showing their support not just for our own choristers but for the choral community as a whole.
We especially thank our wonderful staff, Vicky and Cameron, for fitting the concert into their busy schedules!
Kidzsongs 2010
October 6 2010
On Wednesday night the Dandenong Ranges Music Council held their annual Kidzsongs Concert at the George Wood Performing Arts Centre, Yarra Valley Grammar School. The Youth Chorale attended and contributed to an entertaining evening.
One of the highlights of the evening was the massed singing, involving hundreds of students from all around the area. It is at these kinds of events that children of all ages really get the most out of their love of singing. Some members of the Youth Chorale even gained experience in stage management!
Youth Chorale in Concert and Tour Reunion
September 12 2010
The Youth Chorale presented an engrossing concert over the weekend, in the Performing Arts Centre of St Justin's Primary School, Wheeler's Hill. The hall was packed out, and an enthusiastic audience made sure each item was well received.
Several members of the Chorale performed solo or in small groups, including a VCE assessment item and solo trombone. The concert concluded with a performance of "He Honore," a traditional Maori song the touring choir learnt in New Zealand. A recording of the concert will soon be made available, including a few tracks recorded in New Zealand.
Earlier in the afternoon, members of the touring choir assembled with a few parents to share tour experiences and memories.
W.I.P. Concert
September 4 2010
A large audience packed out the Keysborough venue at the "Work In Progress" concert, ensuring it was a great success. Many of the choristers were dressed up to the nines as well, which looked wonderful onstage.
The purpose of the concert was to show the parents what their children had been up to so far, and this meant that there were a few departures from the usual format of a concert. The audience were asked to sing along, clap and generally experience exactly what their children were doing. Sharon and Ebony explained their methods in detail, and an entertaining time was had by all.
"Kia Ora" Tour
July 28 - Aug 6 2010
The Youth Chorale returned from a highly successful tour of New Zealand with memories that will last a lifetime. New Zealand proved to be an amazing place full of music and great experiences for everyone.
After performing at Auckland Cathedral, the touring choir sang at Aorere College, Queenstown, Geraldine and Christchurch whilst taking in some unbelievable scenery on the way. There was also time for luge, skiing, ice skating and bouncy landings... Stay tuned for a tour media page coming soon.
A particular thank you from the Choir to Dan for being so professional, and to the senior most members of the Chorale who stand up to be counted time and again.
Choir Camp
July 23 - 25 2010
Over the weekend, the tranquil surrounds of Mt Evelyn were enhanced by the beautiful sounds of singing. Also a trumpet playing reveille, and the sounds of a hilarious variety concert, but the singing was the best part.
All Level 3 choristers attended the camp, including the touring members of the Youth Chorale. Saturday afternoon activities included candle making, bush walking and a flyng fox. The NCCA thanks all parents for dropping off and collecting the choristers from the camp, and all staff for making sure the camp was a great success.
Mid-year concert
June 26 2010
A sell out audience were in attendance at the Choir's latest offering, which saw all Level 2 and 3 choirs perform at a very high standard. The beautiful surrounds of the Police Academy Chapel suited the music perfectly.
Once again Michael Rankin took care of sound, through his company Michael Rankin Audio. A highlight was the Youth Chorale's final performance before the NZ tour, and the massed choristers singing "A round of goodbyes" to wish them bon voyage, and farewell to Trish Brewer.
Keysborough information day
June 12 2010
A solid number of interested families attended the final information day for this year, despite freezing temperatures and potential interruptions to the power!
Once again parents and potential choristers got to see what joining the Choir would be like, with morning and afternoon tea thrown in. Thanks to all staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and dedication, and to all the parents for willing to try something a little different.
Berwick information day
June 5 2010
Berwick Anglican Church resounded to the strains of "Black socks" on Saturday, as a host of young children tried being choristers for a day.
Parents were treated to a performance from their own children, delicious morning and afternoon teas, and various displays and media relating to the Choir. Staff and volunteers alike were pleased with the outcome, and we will see a dedicated group beginning in the next school term.
Trivia night
May 15 2010
The Choir's first Trivia night was a great success, with many thousands of dollars raised towards the Youth Chorale tour later in the year. There were games, silent auctions, public auctions and even a display of New Zealand culture put together by Meridee.
Thanks go to all who helped organise the event, especially to Tasha and Susan who both put so much time and energy into the proceedings. Thanks also to our MC for the evening, Liam, who did a great job!
Prelude Concert
May 1 2010
On Saturday afternoon a large audience of dedicated mums and dads were treated to a demonstration performance by all current Preludes held at the Keysborough Lighthouse Centre. It was an entertaining afternoon, complete with a guest appearance from the Keysborough Concert Choir, who were able to give the Preludes an idea of what to aim for.
The audience even got to sing themselves - and they didn't sound too bad! All Choristers involved sang well and behaved impeccably, a real tribute to their parents and the staff of the Choir.
Vicky's wedding
May 1 2010
One of the Choir's staff tied the knot in wonderful fashion, at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Kew. Vicky married fellow musician Michael in a wedding that was accompanied by the Youth Chorale, brass, and a chamber orchestra.
Guests at the reception were also entertained by a big band, who in turn accompanied a member of the Youth Chorale, Julian, in a few classic jazz numbers. All at the Choir wish Vicky and Michael a wonderful future together.
Rowville information day
April 24 2010
A happy and enthusiastic crowd of budding young choristers were present for an information day at RAFT Anglican Church, taking advantage of the new format.
There were lots of smiling faces and even a performance for the parents, followed by morning tea and a quick chat with staff. All in all a very successful day!
Member's area
March 9 2010
The Member's area of the website is finished! It contains lots of things to do for NCCA choristers and their parents.
Click on the link at the bottom of the menu and log in to browse through musical resources for primary and high school students' assignments, interesting musical facts and even a few games from the Eighties for the parents.
Log in details were included in the recent newsletter. If you have trouble logging in, just email Andrew in the office.
Open for business
January 27 2010
The NCCA office is open for business, and we're all looking forward to a very full year for the Choir. There are lots of events planned and more will appear as the year progresses.
Make sure you head on over to the Choir calendar to see what's in store. The first newsletter for 2010 will be distributed soon, with lots of important new details including direct deposit information for payments to the Choir.
2009
Merry Christmas
December 25 2009
The NCCA wishes everyone in our Choir community a safe and happy Christmas for 2009, and a happy New Year!
Hopefully everyone is getting a break of some kind. The NCCA office will be fully staffed from the 28th January, when we look forward to another great year of concerts, tours and special events. See you all then!
Carols on the Keys
December 20 2009
The Youth Chorale and Keysborough Concert Choir took part in the final choir event for 2009 at the Keysborough Lighthouse Centre on Saturday night.
The Carols on the Keys is an enjoyable and fitting way to end the year, with rides, food, raffles, entertainment and of course lots of carol singing! This year the rain held off, and Santa arrived on a lawn mower instead of the Harley he arrived on last year. A large number of parents stayed to swell the crowd, and the choristers themselves sounded fantastic.
Carols on the Mountain (Ferny Creek)
December 12 2009
The rain held off once again as the Youth Chorale joined forces with the Sing Australia Choir, to lead an enthusiastic crowd in raising funds for the Sassafras-Ferny Creek Fire Brigade at the Ferny Creek Recreation Reverve on Saturday night.
One highlight of the night was a rendition of Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus", another being the Youth Chorale's splendid performance on their own. There was a good crowd and a lot of money was raised for the local CFA.
City of Knox Carols by Candlelight
December 5 2009
On Saturday evening the Berwick and Rowville Concert Choirs, together with the Youth Chorale, took part in the Knox Carols held in the Ferntree Gully Recreation Reserve. It was a cool but dry evening, in stark contrast to last year's version when the sound check was washed out and the band couldn't play!
This year everything went off without a hitch, including our own solo items and many other songs with the Australian Army Band, Melbourne. Glen Shorrock sang, Santa arrived and the fireworks were spectacular too.
Choristers will take with them great memories of the evening, in particular the wonderful sight of all the colourful candles spread amongst many thousands of people. As part of his MC duties, Brian Nankervis mentioned the Choir several times and this was always greeted with a cheer from the many parents who had joined the crowd.
Yooralla Art Exhibition
November 24 2009
The Berwick Concert Choir and the Youth Chorale performed as part of a community art exhibition, with all artworks coming from the children who attend the Yooralla Narre Warren Central Children's Centre.
The Choirs sang a selection of music from the recent End-of-Year Concert. There was a very appreciative audience of parents, children and the general public, and all involved had a rewarding time.
Thanks once again to Margaret Watson for organising this fantastic opportunity for our young choristers to sing.
End of Year Concert
November 15 2009
The entire Choir took part in a highly successful End of Year Concert at the Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University, on the evening of Sunday 15th November.
Choristers aged 7 to 25 performed to an audience of nearly 1500 people in what was an entertaining and uplifting evening based on the theme "A Night at the Movies". Repertoire for the concert consisted of songs that have been used in famous movies. There was even a standing ovation at the very end!
Every choir performed brilliantly, and the behaviour and attitude of the choristers was admirable. Thanks go out to all the staff and volunteers who made the night a success. The award ceremony that concluded the concert also included the inaugural presentation of a new perpetual trophy for Most Outstanding Chorister.
Special thanks to Mobile Video Services, who filmed the concert. A DVD will be available the week beginning Monday 30th November, and it makes a lovely Christmas present! Download the order form, or pick an order form up at your rehearsal venue.
McHappy Day 2009
November 14 2009
The Youth Chorale performed at Noble Park McDonalds as part of the McHappy Day fundraising activities for 2009.
Last year McHappy Day raised a total of $1.9 million dollars for charity, and the organisers hope to match that figure this year. Proceeds go to charities such as Ronald McDonald House. This performance is a great way for the Choir to raise our profile in the local community, whilst supporting a very worthy cause.
Every teenager's dream - performing at a McDonalds!
Narre Warren Central Children's Centre
October 26 2009
The Berwick Concert Choir together with the Youth Chorale will be performing at an art exhibition held at the Yooralla Narre Warren Central Children's Centre on the evening of Tuesday, 24th November.
The exhibition showcases art work created by children of all abilities from across the City of Casey, and is a great opportunity for the Berwick choristers to add their voice to the cultural life of their area. Repertoire will include several items from the Robert Blackwood Hall concert held a few days earlier, with a few Christmas favourites as well.
Many thanks to Margaret Watson for facilitating this wonderful performance opportunity for the Choir.
Youth Chorale concert
September 12 2009
On Saturday night the Youth Chorale treated an enthusiastic crowd to a wide selection of favourites and solo items, in the warm surrounds of Flockart Hall, Methodist Ladies' College, in Kew.
Repertoire included choral masterpieces from several centuries, solo VCE items performed by members of the Chorale, and culminated with Paul Jarman's entire song cycle "Turn on the Open Sea". A raffle drawn on the night also helped raise money for a tour in 2010, with prizes generously donated from within the Choir community.
On the Sunday the Chorale then performed at the Preston Salvation Army Citadel, along with the Preston Salvation Army brass band under the direction of Michael Pilley, Vicky's lucky fiance. All up it was a wonderful weekend of performances by the Chorale, ably directed by Sharon and accompanied by Daniel Moldrich.
Level 3 Camp
August 7 to 9 2009
The Choir's first camp for two years was held at Oasis Camp in Mt Evelyn over the weekend, and was a lot of fun for all concerned.
Choral music wafted through the trees and the sun shone all weekend, allowing the choristers to learn a large amount of new music in a short time and enjoy themselves while they were doing it. There was even reville in the morning, and a birthday on camp!
Many aches, bruises and experiences were earned during the activities and many hidden talents came to the fore in an entertaining variety concert on Saturday night. Planning has already begun for next year...
Mid-Year Concert
June 21 2009
The Choir's Mid-Year Concert at the Victoria Police Academy Chapel was a great success. All choristers except the Preludes were in attendance, spread over two concerts.
Every group had their chance to sing in the beautiful surrounds, and the music staff did a wonderful job. A past chorister, Michael Rankin of Michael Rankin Audio, took care of the sound and Vanessa from Redbook Photography took group photos before each concert. If anyone would like extra prints of their photos, please contact Vanessa.
It was a very rewarding day for all concerned!
Berwick and Rowville audition days
June 13 and 20 2009
A large number of budding choristers attended the final audition days for 2009. Various versions of "Advance Australia Fair" could be heard, and relieved smiles could be seen as the attendees made their way home.
As always Sharon was impressed by the quality and enthusiasm of voices heard on these days, and it will be an exciting time when the new Preludes start in the coming semester. There were also a lot of smiling parents, especially when they were offered lollies...
Parents can approach the Choir anytime if their child displays an interest in joining the Choir.
Bridal Expo performance
June 1 2009
Over the weekend of May 30 and 31, the Youth Chorale performed no less than eight times as part of the Ultimate Bridal Event in the Palladium Ballroom at Crown.
Literally tens of thousands of potential bridal couples and their friends watched the NCCA perform a medley of wedding repertoire songs, ranging from traditional hymns to contemporary favourites.
It was an exciting weekend, and our young choristers gained valuable experience as well.
Sing your own The Magic Flute
May 18 2009
Although not an official Choir event, all those interested can head along to the BMW Edge, Federation Square on Saturday June 13 from 2.30pm - 8.00pm for a unique singing event.
Whether you're a seasoned singer or a tentative beginner, you will definitely have fun among a large, enthusiastic crowd ready for a big sing. The audition requirements are simply: 1. find BMW Edge and 2. be warm and vertical! The event is ticketed through Ticketmaster, and if desired the music can be collected closer to the date.
If you'd like to know more, visit Sing your own The Magic Flute at the Victorian opera's website.
NCCA at Bridal Exhibition
April 21 2009
The Youth Chorale will perform at the Ultimate Bridal Event at the Crown Palladium, on the weekend of May 30/31.
The Event is being organised by the Australian Bridal Service, with whom the NCCA is now a fully accredited business. Choirs add a very nice touch to weddings, and our attendance at this event will show the bridal audience what a choir can do.
Preludes Concert
March 28 2009
The Preludes Concert given at the Keysborough venue went very well, with special guests the Youth Chorale also contributing to a wonderful concert.
The concert was almost a sell out, which helped to make it a special day for our youngest choristers, some of whom were singing in public for the first time. There was even a little bit of audience participation for the finale, bringing the afternoon to a close.
All members of the Youth Chorale also took on other duties before and after the concert, including sound, front of house and stage setup. The efforts of all music staff, office staff and choristers was much appreciated by Andrew and Sharon in the Choir's first performance for 2009.
Keysborough audition day
March 21 2009
The Keysborough venue enjoyed an excellent audition day on Saturday.
A healthy number of budding young choristers attended, and Musical Director Sharon Batterham was pleased with the level of musicality she found throughout the day.
The venue resounded to many different interpretations of "Advance Australia Fair", some of them highly original! Rehearsals for the new Keysborough Prelude group will commence in the second week of Term 2, on Tuesday 28th April.
EFTPOS facilities now available
February 18 2009
Parents can now make payments to the Choir using our new EFTPOS facilities!
Payments using credit cards and debit cards can be made in person at the office using our new EFTPOS machine. Please be aware that we do not give cash out, and that the only credit cards we accept via EFTPOS are Visa and Mastercard.
Credit card payments may now also be made over the phone. Remember that a surcharge of 5 dollars applies to all credit card payments made to the Choir. A surcharge of 1 dollar applies to debit card transactions, which can only be made at the office.
2008
New premises for the Choir
December 23 2008
The Choir has moved to an office suite in Mulgrave. This location is central to the Choir's venues, and will enable the staff to run the organisation more efficiently and smoothly.
Parents are welcome to drop in at any time, wether to take care of uniforms, ask about things relating to the Choir or just to check out the new digs.
Check out the Contact page for the full address, as well as the new Post Office box details. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Change of management
December 17 2008
Andrew and Sharon Batterham have taken on the role of managing the Choir.
This change heralds an exciting new time in the life of the Choir and the choristers. Sharon has already been with the Choir for some time and is well known to the community of choristers and parents. Andrew and Sharon are both experienced musicians, teachers and organisers, and together look forward to taking the organisation in new directions in the future. Three of their four children currently sing with the Choir.
