Call out for young choristers

THE stage is set for the next generation of singers to join the Bendigo Youth Choir.

Young people between the ages of six to 18 years old are being encouraged to get involved in the local group, which will this year celebrate its 38th year of music making.

Associate director Gail Godber said while membership had taken a hit during the pandemic, the organisation was keen to continue providing a space for young singers to pursue their passion.

“Over the last couple of years, we’ve whittled down in number and it’s just too precious an institution to not reach out to people that haven’t considered us as an option, to remind them that we’re still here and we really offer something different from what choral programs in schools are offering,” she said.

“It’s children coming together from a broad range of backgrounds and being brought together by the music.

“It’s offering some joy when, around, it seems a little bit gloomy and it’s been so tough for kids particularly.

“Both of my kids were in the choir, and it brought them much joy and many experiences that they wouldn’t have otherwise had in an organisation that’s mainly volunteer based, so people are there because they love it, and they believe in it.”

Past international performances included the USA in 2017 and France in 2018, but Ms Godber said this year’s focus would be on strengthening young voices closer to home.

“From the younger end, they would be going straight into the reserve choir where they learn about the association between singing and fun. It’s giving a young person another means of expression,” she said.

“So often, children’s voices aren’t heard and the wonderful thing about a youth choir is that their voices are heard.”

Rehearsals are held every Wednesday evening at St. Andrews Church on Myers Street. For more information or to join, contact choir manager Rosalie Rogers on 0427 250 768.