In 1973, Paul Curtis, then Principal Flautist with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, decided it would be a good idea to bring some music to the Sutherland Shire. Drawing musicians from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and singers from Church Choirs and small groups, a concert was put together and performed in Gymea School Auditorium.
This was so well received and the singers so enthusiastic, they asked for a permanent choir to be formed.
Paul approached Ian Sappay, who agreed to take over as Conductor, and in 1974 the Sutherland Shire Choral Society gave its first performance of “Messiah” with 80 singers.
With his wife Ruth as rehearsal pianist, Ian directed the Choir for seven years before retiring in 1981. They are still involved with the Choir today as Hon. Patrons. Since 1981 there have been six musical directors, and the Choir introduced to many different works, composers and styles of music.
There are four founding members still singing with the Choir.
New Musical Director from 30th January 2012 is Margot Mc Laughlin
Over the years membership numbers have fluctuated but currently there are 78 singers.
It is a very friendly group and quite a few family members are involved: husbands and wives, and friends who have sung together for many years. Everyone is welcome. There are no auditions, although we like to maintain as high a standard as we can for a community choir. Music is provided, and practice CDs can be purchased at minimal cost.
Over the last twenty years we have enjoyed the dedicated services of Cheryl Mason, our rehearsal pianist, who is one of our greatest assets.
There is real joy in singing and learning new music and then presenting a polished performance. We usually perform three concerts each year – two of these are a more classical style and the other consists of lighter music. In recent years, we have been able to have an instrumental ensemble or orchestra, as well as piano or organ, to accompany us. Also, for some of our concerts we engage professional vocal soloists where the repertoire chosen calls for it.
