By Jessica Anstice
Like everyone involved in the arts sector, a Berwick-based choir has been struggling through the pandemic as families, businesses and organisations who would normally offer grants face financial hardship.
Melbourne Youth Chorale (MYC), previously Berwick Youth Choir, has been operating in and benefitting children, young people and families of Casey for nearly 35 years.
A few years back, MYC changed it structure from fee-based to relying on grants, business sponsorship and donations, with the view of reaching out to young people in the community who would otherwise be unable to pay for music education.
MYC’s motto is, “…because everyone deserves the gift of music.”
“Being dependent on people’s generosity in these hard times has made things extra difficult for MYC and we genuinely face closing our doors to our 65 students,” MYC vice president Karry Alexander said.
“We are uncertain how we will continue to cover costs to provide for our 65, and growing, choristers through 2021.”
Through the coronavirus lockdown, MYC choristers have embraced an online learning program.
The choir was planning to perform ‘Carmen’ with Opera Australia before Covid-19 closed the opportunity.
“MYC has some exciting plans for next year, including setting up a therapy choir for students with a disability, Covid-19 restrictions permitting, as well as a remote learning program,” Ms Alexander added.
“…Provided, of course, that we are able to continue running.”
MYC provides high-quality music education, going beyond a singalong to a musicianship program based on the Kodaly method, in a warm and encouraging social setting.
“We are very proud of our program and of the achievements of our choristers,” she said.
“We hope to change lives by offering quality musical education and a warm, vibrant, encouraging social community.”
Ms Alexander is urging businesses in the community, particularly those able, to offer ongoing annual business sponsorship in exchange for advertising.
Businesses can contact Ms Alexander at vp@melbourneyouthchorale.com.au.
For individuals wanting to contribute, a GoFundMe project has been established.
To donate, go to: https://au.gofundme.com/f/MYCgift
