Professional Development at National Choral School 2026: Global perspectives in choral conducting

Each of our international guests has created a highly successful and world-renowned choral program of their own. Watch and hear them rehearse alongside their Australian colleagues and then listen as we delve deep and unearth the secrets to their choral magic. How are their choirs structured? Do they audition? How often do they rehearse? How do they create their unique sound? What might we all be able to learn from their new perspectives?  

This two-day program is open to anyone with a passion for choral music and the desire to gain new insights. Participants will have the opportunity to observe rehearsals across all choirs, share a meal with the NCS artistic staff and choral colleagues, and attend dedicated Q&A forums with our renowned international and Australian conductors.  

16 January 2026 Choirs and Conductors:

Gondwana Voices is Australia’s national children’s choir for treble singers aged 10-17. It regularly performs with the country’s leading ensembles and has built a reputation for performances of outstanding musicianship. The choir regularly tours nationally and internationally and has performed at the BBC Proms, with the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra in the Berlin Philharmonie, and at the Barbican Hall in London.  

Conductors 2026: Sam Allchurch and Basilio Astulez (Spain) 

Gondwana Novus is for young people, aged 10 – 13, who love singing and show strong musical potential. For many young singers, Gondwana Novus is the start of a lifelong musical journey. 

Conductors 2026: Lachlan Massey and Jennifer Moon 

17 January 2026 Choirs and Conductors:

Gondwana Chorale, our vibrant national youth choir, is an SATB ensemble for singers aged 18 – 25. With a reputation for an exciting sound across a varied repertoire, Gondwana Chorale comprises some of the brightest young adult singers from across Australia. 

Conductors 2026: Dr Elizabeth Scott and Dr Michael Barrett (South Africa) 

Gondwana Singers is a dynamic young SATB (soprano, alto, tenor, bass) choir which caters for singers aged 14 – 16, including boys with changed/changing voices as well as treble voices.  

Conductors 2026: Claire Preston and Mat Wright MBE (UK) 

Want to learn more about Gondwana Choirs and the National Choral School conductors? Visit our website here: Gondwana National Choirs - Gondwana Choirs

Dates: 16 January 2026: Gondwana Novus and Gondwana Voices
17 January 2026: Gondwana Singers and Gondwana Chorale  

Location: The Women's College, within the University of Sydney
15 Carillon Avenue, Camperdown 2050, Sydney NSW

Cost: $175 per day or $300 for two-day pass

Students: 10% discount on above rates (NOTE: students may need to provide proof of enrolment to verify their student status)

Includes rehearsal observation, Q&A sessions with conductors, lunch and refreshments. 
Does not include travel or accommodation or meals other than those listed above. 

Book your place now!