ARC Children’s Choir focuses on developing vocal talent and musicality. We provide:
- Vocal techniques
- Music reading
- Sight singing
- Part singing and harmony
- On-line resources including practice tracks.
- Confidence and skill development in a fun and supportive learning environment.
To improve sight singing, we use the Mark O’Leary Sight Singing School program books. Students can also practice online at www.sightsingingschool.com
In 2016, we also incorporated the new Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) new Musical Theatre syllabus in our choir program, including technical work and required songs. Selected choir members have the opportunity to undertake AMEB Musical Theatre exams. Additional small group rehearsals are scheduled to assist in preparation for exams. In 2026 we will again be running preparation for the AMEB Musical Theatre Repertoire exams.
AMEB’s first dedicated Musical Theatre syllabus is designed to support a well-rounded musical theatre education from beginner to pre-professional levels.
Rehearsals
Rehearsals for the ARC Children’s and Youth Choir are held at the Bridge- Preston (Formerly known as Preston Neighbourhood House) 218 High St Preston.
In 2026 ARC is running 2 tiered sessions each Wednesday afternoon during school terms.
- ARC Children’s Choir ( Primary School aged) 4.15pm to 5.00pm
- ARC Youth Ensemble (Secondary School aged and young adults) 5.00 to 6.00pm
Performances
ARC Children’s Youth Choirs perform in a range of community events. This has included the Darebin Carols in All Nations, Darebin Citizenship Ceremonies, ARC 20th Anniversary Concert at Banyule Theatre, CHoral@Montsalvat, Darebin FUSE events, and Christmas performances, Booroondara Eisteddfod and Northern Choral FEST, Federation Square Christmas Festival.
Performance dates for 2026
- Saturday or Sunday 11th-12th April 2026 – ARC Children’s & Youth Choir will be performing at ChoralFEST Geelong – the National Choral Choir Festival organised by the ANCA (Australian National Choral Association). Please note this date falls in the Term 1 School Holidays
- June 2026 – Booroodara Eisteddfod (date to be confirmed)
- Other dates for Term 3 and Term 4 Christmas Performances TBC,
Fees
ARC is a not for profit community arts organisation. This program aims to provide an affordable and high quality choral program for children. To minimise costs, we fundraise throughout the year. However, to meet the operational costs of choir, choir fees must be paid each term.
There is an Annual Membership/Joining fee to ARC (Valid for 12 months). All Children’s Choir participants become associate members of ARC. The annual membership fee is $50.
In 2026 Choir fees will be based on a set fee per rehearsal dependant on group $12/$15 per rehearsal. These are invoiced on a term basis.
For further information on fees please refer to our Information for Parents page
On line learning resources
ARC Children’s & Youth Choir Choir has on-line resources in the members section of our website. This includes MP3 learning files, practice tracks and recordings.