Information current as at SEPTEMBER 2008

(03) 9816 9413 (AH)

Choir's Email Address: info@yarragospel.org

Choir's Website: www.yarragospel.org

Vision statement / Artistic goals: Yarra Gospel sings gospel music in the community for their own and others enjoyment; Practices are as much fun as performances

Voice type: SATB

Choir performs: Both accompanied & unaccompanied

Year Choir formed: 2004

No. of Singing Members - Currently: 50 Desired: no more than 70

Musical Repertoire: Arrangements by Tony Backhouse, Moses Hogan, and Gospel favourites

Musical Director: Yvonne Giltinan and Janine Anderson

No. of years in current post: since 2004

Previous musical experience: Yvonne has been a Director of Music in schools in the Northern Territory and Hobart, and has conducted community choirs throughout her career; she also gives community-building gospel workshops at conferences, camps, birthday parties and in church services

Janine is a singing specialist who has worked as a private singing teacher and also in schools as a teacher

Choir's past collaborations with other musical groups: n/a

Audition: No

Minimum Attendance policy - Rehearsals: Regular attendance is appreciated and encouraged particularly leading up to performances Concerts: No

Membership Fees: $8/week

Ability to read music: Desirable but not necessary

Sight-reading ability: Desirable but not necessary

Av. No. of rehearsals/week: 2 sessions on Thursdays: 5.30-6.45pm - note learning; 7.15pm - vocal warm-up; 7.45- 9.15pm - main rehearsal

Usual rehearsal night(s): Thursday

Suburb: Hawthorn

Rehearsal venue: Auburn Baptist Church, 597 Burwood Rd

Off-street parking: Yes, at rear of church

Performance Apparel: All black, with coloured stoles supplied by choir

Av. No. of Concert Programs/year: n/a

Av. No. of Performances/year: 5-6

Sample of the Choir's past Concert Venues: A Taste of Gospel@get.wines.direct, Choral@Monsalvat, "Prayer for Melbourne" event (Federation Square), weddings and birthdays, Boite Singers Festival (Daylesford), gospel workshops with Tony Backhouse, community Choirs Festival (Hawthorn Town Hall), ABC FM Choir of the Year competition

Examples of musical pieces performed: Gospel favourites: O Happy Day, Joyful Joyful, Amazing Grace, Down to the river to pray; traditional songs arranged by Tony Backhouse

Touring: Not yet

Administration / Governance arrangements for the Choir: An Incorporated Association

Types of Committees: Management

Own collection of music scores: Yes

Available for hire to other groups: By discussion

Hiring fees apply: No