A COMMUNITY choir is set to strike a chord in Logan, responding to what its director describes as an “overwhelming” level of public interest and a growing appetite for collective music-making in the region.
The Performance Studios Choir, launching Thursday evenings from February 5, has been inspired in part by the development of the Logan City Orchestras and by what director Lisa
Lockland-Bell sees it as a broader cultural shift towards community-based arts.
The Logan City Symphony Orchestra, founded by Lewes Peddell and launched in July last year, already has around 70 musicians.
“We’ve been incredibly encouraged by the number of enquiries,” Ms Lockland-Bell said.
“It mirrors what we’ve seen with the Logan City Orchestras and shows that people here genuinely want opportunities to make music together.”
She said there was a strong desire to work alongside existing local ensembles in the future, describing the choir as part of a growing creative network within the city.
Beyond musical ambition, the choir has been shaped by an awareness of singing’s social impact.
Ms Lockland-Bell pointed to the role of group singing in improving mental wellbeing, reducing isolation and strengthening social bonds — benefits she believes are particularly significant in a diverse and fast-growing region.
“Singing brings people together in a way few other activities can,” the highly respected opera singer and vocal coach said.
“It builds connection, confidence and a real sense of belonging.”
According to Ms Lockland-Bell, there is clear potential for a local choir to contribute to civic life through performances at events and celebrations.
The choir will be open to adults and young people across Logan who wish to belong to something meaningful, build confidence and use their voice within a supportive environment.
Formal musical training will not be required.
“This choir is intentionally accessible,” Ms Lockland-Bell said.
“You don’t need to have sung before. What matters is a willingness to learn, to grow, and to take part.”
While the atmosphere will be relaxed, performance will remain a central feature.
Ms Lockland-Bell said appearances were part of the program, with concerts planned in welcoming, community-focused settings in and around Logan.
“These performances are about celebrating participation,” she said. “They’re designed to build confidence, not create pressure.”
After four years of welcoming singers through the doors of Performance Studios, Ms
Lockland-Bell said the time was right to establish a choir.
Weekly rehearsals will be led by experienced vocal educators and will explore a varied repertoire, from contemporary favourites to classic choral works.
Ms Lockland-Bell said rehearsals would focus on enjoyment, skill development and ensemble awareness, creating a space where singers of all backgrounds could connect through music.
There is a weekly membership fee of $22, covering music, accompaniment and administrative costs. Phone 0499 949 495 to join.
In a city still shaping its cultural identity, the Performance Studios Choir hopes to offer something both simple and resonant.
