Choir is on song

By Madeline Prince
GREATER Dandenong Sings is the name of the new choir which has been set up by not for profit organisation, Creativity Australia.
Program co-ordinator Pippa Wischer says the new choir will be inclusive of everyone regardless of age, job status or singing capability.
“The choir is aimed at everybody, it’s about being inclusive,” said Ms Wischer.
Ms Wischer says the choir is a great way for people to network, especially for the unemployed to mix with employers or for people from non–English speaking backgrounds to broaden their vocabulary through song and practice with native speakers.
The program is being funded by a range of organisations including the Ian Potter Centre, VicUrban, Hilton Group and the City of Dandenong.
Ms Wischer is hoping the choir will grow to have 200 members and she already has the choir booked in to events including the Carols by Candlelight.
The choir will be conducted by Shaun Islip who Ms Wischer says is renowned in his field and currently he conducts the Children’s Hospital Choir and the Melbourne Choir.
A wide range of genres will be covered including modern music to ethnic, ’50s and anthem songs and Ms Wischer is also on the lookout for any local Dandenong musicians to join in.
“Really it’s about joy, it’s a way to connect with the community,” she said.
Ms Wischer says that being in a choir is a positive way to increase creativity and reduce depression and says that overall it is about having ‘fun’.
“Being able to sing is not a pre–requisite, being human is,” said Ms Wischer.
The first rehearsal will be held at the Paddy O’Donoghue centre in Noble Park from 5.15 – 6.45pm. For details contact Pippa Wischer on 9682 9686 or visit the website www.creativityaustralia.org.au