Are you looking for a fun and enriching musical experience for your child? The Central Coast Conservatorium of Music invites students to join its vibrant Children’s Choir Program, designed for children aged 5 to 18+ years. This program offers a unique opportunity for young musicians to develop their vocal skills, have fun, build confidence, and be part of a supportive community.
Choir levels
The program consists of three levels tailored to different age groups:
- Mini Voices Training Choir: For children aged 5 to 8 years (kindergarten to Year 3), led by Jo McMahon and Nicky Castle. This fun and relaxed program is perfect for young beginners.
- Children’s Choir: Suitable for students aged 9 to 12 years, focusing on developing vocal techniques and performance skills.
- Youth Choir: The most senior group, designed for high school and tertiary students, offering advanced choral training.
All choirs rehearse on Monday evenings at Gosford Presbyterian Church:
- Mini Voices: 4 -5pm
- Children’s Choir: 5 – 6.30pm
- Youth Choir: 5 – 7pm
Performance Opportunities
The Children’s Choir has had the privilege of performing with prestigious organisations like Opera Australia and at events such as the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular. Throughout the year, students participate in at least one performance project per term, exploring a diverse repertoire that includes classical, contemporary, sacred, traditional, operatic, and musical theatre works.
Skills Development
In addition to vocal techniques, students learn essential skills such as:
- Reading music
- Safe voice warm-up methods
- Ensemble singing
- Singing with a conductor
- Introduction to various languages for opera or classical pieces
Moreover, the program emphasises performance and stagecraft skills, including drama fundamentals, stage directions, and choreographed movements. This comprehensive approach helps students present themselves confidently in performance situations.
Benefits of Joining a Choir
Singing in a choir offers numerous benefits:
- Vocal Skills: Improves vocal technique and musical understanding.
- Teamwork: Fosters collaboration and teamwork.
- Confidence: Boosts self-confidence through regular performances.
- Community: Provides a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
As Nicky Castle, drama coordinator, notes, “Every person has a song in their heart. Singing is as natural for us to do as walking, dancing, and talking. Our choir and performance program permits the students to express themselves in a kind, supportive environment.”
How to Apply
Entry into the Central Coast Children’s Choir and Youth Choir is by audition.
- •Audition Requirements: Prepare a song that showcases your child’s current ability (2-3 minutes maximum). Examples include “Waltzing Matilda,” “The National Anthem,” or “This Little Light of Mine.”
- •Audition Process: Includes vocal and projection exercises, following simple stage directions, and singing. Auditions last approximately 10 minutes.
- •Notification: Results will be communicated within a week of the audition.
FILL IN THIS APPLICATION FORM to apply
Note: Students wanting to join Mini Voices do not need to audition. Contact administration on 4324 7277 or fill out our enquiry form.
Don’t miss this opportunity to nurture your child’s love for music in a fun and supportive environment. Apply now and let them experience the joy of singing with the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music Children’s Choir program!
