'I am an optimist. It does not seem too much use being anything else.’ – Winston Churchill
While it feels like we have spent most of this year in lockdowns and rehearsing online, we were lucky enough to have two great concerts in the first half of the year, which is more than we achieved for the whole of the COVID-19 affected 2020!
Deb Damman’s outstanding contribution to the Choir over many years sees her named as the inaugural recipient of the Elwynne Stafford Award for volunteers in 2021. The accolade is named for Honorary Life Member and ABCI volunteer, Elwynne Stafford, who influenced a generation of singers.
Probationers become Tyros, Tyros graduate to become Junior Singers and Senior Singers, and Performing Squad members keen to grow their leadership might just achieve the coveted rank of Chorister. And, of course, the vocal gift that brought boys to ABCI in the first place proliferates as they transform into young men.
The ABCI uses ‘moveable doh’ solfège, combined with the corresponding hand-signs, both of which are key to learning in a Kodály-inspired environment.
Embarking upon a new collaboration with the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra (ARCO) in 2022, the Institute will present a program titled Austrian Encounters which will see vocal and orchestral colours swirling and mingling to make spirits soar for both performer and listener alike.
Admongst the uncertainty and turmoil of 2021, the ABCI managed to deliver a stunning paean to hope and beauty in the mesmerising performance, Requiem for an Empress. The performance comprised a single, 65-minute work, the Officium Defunctorum of 1605 by celebrated Spanish Renaissance composer, Tomás Luís de Victoria.
Hear from ABCI Board Member Fiona Trumble as she lends her support to our End-of-Year Giving Appeal.
Please consider donating via the Choir's Give Now page this Christmas.