Few people realise how enduring and successful the Orange Male Voice Choir has been since its inception in 1926. The choir has performed all over Australia and in London’s Albert Hall, winning many competitions along the way while providing a creative and social outlet for men in the Orange area.

When Clare and I moved to Orange last year, one of the first things I did was check out the choir at their Monday night rehearsal at 7.15pm at the Orange Regional Conservatorium. I’d played guitar and sung for a while but had never tested my voice in a choir. I was delighted to be greeted so warmly by a great bunch of men and was impressed at how well-organised everything was with a great committee and musical direction. I was slotted into the tenor 2 section and encouraged to perform publicly when I was ready.

I can’t overstate the satisfaction of learning a song with a friendly and open group of men and then performing it in front of an audience. It’s good for mental health and social connection and having a creative hobby is great for the soul. We do, however, need new members so that the choir can thrive in future. We have the annual choir festival in Adelaide next May and our centenary year in 2026, so lots to look forward to!

Why not come and check us out at one of our Monday night practice sessions or have a look at our website omvc.org.au. We also have our ‘For the Love of Song’ event coming up on Saturday, September 14 at the Conservatorium, where we will be performing with the Orange High School Man Choir as special guests. (Tickets are available on 123tix.com.au or from the Conservatorium on Hill Street. )

Don’t be shy! It’s a welcoming and supportive environment. So if you can hold a tune and want to release that inner creative force lurking inside you, we’d love to meet you. Hope to see you soon.