About us - our history and other interesting information.

In 1973, Paul Curtis, then Principal Flute with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Conductor of the Aulos Sutherland Shire Symphony Orchestra, suggested having a performance of Handel’s “Messiah” in the Sutherland Shire. With the help of Geoff Reid, a Music Teacher at Gymea High School, a choir of approximately 60 singers was assembled from the Shire and St George areas.

Paul Curtis was Conductor with Ian Sappay as Chorus Master.

“Messiah” was performed with great success in Gymea High School Auditorium on 24 November 1973.

Due to the enthusiastic response of the singers, the choir continued throughout 1974 and a permanent Choral Society was inaugurated, known as “Sutherland Shire Choral Society”.

Ian Sappay led rehearsals of the newly-formed Choral Society while Paul Curtis was overseas, and “Pleasant Sunday Afternoons” of choral music were held regularly at Sylvania Congregational Church. Paul Curtis resumed his role with the SSCS on his return to Australia, conducting “Messiah” on 7 December 1974 at Caringbah High School.

About us...

The Choral Society has grown and changed over the years, but the enthusiasm of its members has never flagged. As we celebrate 50 years of singing, we have approximately 70 members including one Foundation Member. We perform three concerts each year – two in a more classical style and one of lighter music. We regularly engage professional soloists to accompany us, both vocal and instrumental, and we perform in differing venues around the Sutherland Shire.

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, our members persevered and continued to meet and sing together virtually. We even performed a couple of songs as a virtual choir, which was a testament to the spirit and dedication of our members.

Whilst the main focus has always been on bringing choral music to the Shire, on occasion the choir has been invited to sing away and this has always been well received.