Farewell for choir founder

THE Bendigo Youth Choir’s founder Valerie Broad will perform for the last time ever on 14 September as part of the group’s fortieth anniversary celebrations.

She’ll join the choir to sing a specially commissioned work by composer Paul Jarman.

The much-loved choir has become a fixture in Bendigo through its annual performances at Bendigo’s Carols by Candlelight and Anzac Day services.

BYC artistic director Gail Godber said the concert would showcase all that the choir has achieved since its first performance in 1984.

“To be able to present our 2024 choristers at this celebration fills us with a deep sense of gratitude to our founder, Valerie, and admiration for all she (has) achieved in realising her vision 40 years ago.” she said.

“Choral singing is an incredibly rewarding and satisfying pursuit for young singers. They often find their kindred spirits while learning a range of skills (and) develop confidence through performing in a range of situations.

“We look forward to building on the foundations laid by all of those who came before, some of whom will gather and perform at our concert.”

The concert will include the premiere of Jarman’s work, and a rendition of the Delibes Messe Brève with the Young Voices of Macedon.

“It was a pleasure to work with Paul earlier this year on a piece which captures the essence of what our choir is – a place to sing, dream and belong – whilst also acknowledging the contribution of our amazing founder,” Ms Godber said.

Tickets to the Bendigo Youth Choir 40th Anniversary Concert at 2.30pm, Saturday 14 September at the Capital can be purchased via Gotix.