Featuring the world premiere of two new works by Australian composers Ella Macens and Michael Dooley, the Canberra Choral Society celebrated 70 years of music-making in a concert of glorious songs, led by the multi-talented composer, conductor, singer and Music Director, Dan Walker.

Canberra Choral Society. Photo © Peter Hislop

CCS commissioned these works to commemorate their platinum anniversary and to add to the choral repertoire. Both works, written for SATB choir and chamber ensemble, embrace the themes of renewal and celebration that draw upon imagery from the natural world.

Originating in 1952 with just a small group of people who sang together for enjoyment, the CCS has performed hundreds of concerts over the years. With 17 musical directors since 1952, the diversity of music they perform crosses genres, and they champion new works by Australian composers. In 2002, their 50th anniversary was celebrated with the release of Peter Campbell’s book, Canberra Choral Society: A Capital Choir for a Capital City.

The assembled forces of the CCS and the CCS Instrumental Ensemble began with G.F. Handel’s Zadok the Priest. Sounding full and strong, the group offered a stirring rendition of this famous...