Woden Valley Youth Choir
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The Woden Valley Youth Choir is a performing choir based in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory. Its performs not only in Canberra but also across Australia and internationally during regular tours. The name derives from the Woden Valley district of Canberra.
The musical director of the choir is Alpha Gregory, a well-known Canberra choral director and children's music teacher. Rebecca Pope is Intermediate Choir Conductor.
[edit] History
The Woden Valley Youth Choir began in February 1969 when conductor, Don Whitbread, and his pianist wife, Barbara, soon after they moved to Canberra, issued an invitation to local children. Beginning with twenty-two singers the Choir grew to a regular membership of seventy.
Memorable performances have included:
- 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Queensland - performing for Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh at a Gala Concert;
- for the royals again, in Canberra in 1992;
- at the invitaion of the Prime Minister of Australia, to sing to visiting Heads of Government at international conferences in 1981 and 1983;
- as invited guest artists at Government House, Canberra, the residence of the Governor-General of Australia;
- at the opening ceremony of the World Cup Athletics meet in 1985;
- in 1988:
- a world-wide telecast which launched Australia's Bicentennial year in 1988;
- 12 choir members were in the Choir which sang at the official opening of Australian Parliament House;
- at Australia's official flag-raising ceremony at Expo 88 in Brisbane;
- at the prestigious International Society for Music Education (ISME) Conference;
- singing with Opera Australia, symphony orchestras, and at major concerts with international guest artists;
- recording four albums and a one hour television special;
- five overseas tours.
In 1996, Don Whitbread AOM retired as president and musical director of the choir. He was named Canberran of the Year for 1996.
[edit] Discography
The Choir can be heard on:
- Ancient Cries
- Holiday Lights
- Shine On Me (2002)
- Angels Shouting (2000)
Other albums:
- Macca on Air - Songs from Australia All Over[1]
- the international Christmas CD, The Children's Gift, in company with the Vienna Boys Choir and other world renowned choirs.
