East Melbourne Community Choir

The idea of starting a new choir emerged as members of the East Melbourne Neighbour Network (EMNN) were looking for ways to support our community’s health and wellbeing.  

It has been shown that people who participate in a choir enjoy a greater feeling of togetherness and being part of a collective endeavour, than others involved in different social activities. Singing as a group has been found to regulate heart rate as heart rates are directly affected by the melody of music. This in turn can reduce stress levels and depression.  

This research, along with great enthusiasm from the community, and support from the City of Melbourne with an establishment grant, spurred EMNN on.

The choir, currently named “East Melbourne Community Choir” is now up and running and is a relaxed group of community members who love to sing together. The choir was very fortunate to have Robyn Cooper-Bugg as musical director and Andrea Chan as pianist.

Robyn Cooper-Bugg is an experienced professional singer and performer in opera, music theatre, cabaret and in recitals. She is a teacher of classical, music theatre and some contemporary repertoire and is a specialist in vocal technique, performance and stage skills, and languages.

Robyn will be a great fit for the choir and provide a nurturing environment for members, as she draws on her vast professional experience in a variety of vocal and performing technical skills. We feel honoured to have someone of Robyn’s experience and professionalism to lead the choir.

Andrea Chan is an experienced musician and classically trained pianist.  

Since 1985, Andrea has performed as a soloist and pianist for various ensembles (stage bands, jazz bands and choirs); has enjoyed playing at special occasions (weddings, corporate events, etc.); and has worked as an accompanist for instrumentalists in their AMEB exams at the Victorian College of the Arts.   

Andrea has a post-graduate certificate of education and has enjoyed teaching and mentoring in recent years. She remains a lifelong student of music herself and looks forward to accompanying the passionate singers of EMCC in 2023.

The choir sings an eclectic repertoire of music including musicals, pop, folk and classical in two-, three- and four-part harmony as well as rounds and some unison. New members are welcome, and no auditions are required.  

We welcome experienced singers and beginners; those who read music and those who don’t. Come along and try it out.

Rehearsals: Tuesdays – first, third, fourth, fifth (if applicable) Tuesday of each month during school term. No rehearsal on the second Tuesday of each month (as venue is unavailable). Time: 7pm to 8.30pm each week.

Venue: Unitarian Church, 110 Grey St, East Melbourne. 

 Fees: Come along and try out a rehearsal – no cost. Fees: $60 per term.

Email Ann-Maree if you would like further information or wish to join the choir.  •

Email: [email protected]