In a significant development for Canberra’s younger musicians, Music for Canberra and Woden Valley Youth Choir have announced a partnership. Both organisations are deeply rooted in the city’s cultural history.

WVYC was founded in 1969 by Don Whitbread and his late wife Barbara, with Don leading the choir for 28 years. Now celebrating its 56th year, WVYC has nurtured generations of young singers. The new collaboration ensures the choir’s artistic programs  and community presence will continue while strengthening governance, administration and access to resources.

Music for Canberra traces its origins to Gaudeamus Music and Performing Arts, founded by Judith Clingan in 1983. Clingan served as director for 11 years and remains active as a composer, creating choral and music theatre works for the organisation. Over time, Gaudeamus evolved into the present-day Music for Canberra, home to the Canberra Youth Orchestra, Youth Concert Band, Children’s Choir, and Mixed Abilities Program.

Michael Favreau, MfC general manager and artistic director, said: “It is a privilege to assume stewardship of Woden Valley Youth Choir and to carry forward its long-standing commitment to nurturing a love of music among our youth and the wider community.”

Olivia Swift will continue as WVYC artistic director, while WVYC vice-president Paul Osborne joins the MfC board.

Outgoing WVYC president Kylie Gibson noted that the partnership would safeguard the choir’s legacy, while relieving volunteers of ongoing administrative pressures.

Looking ahead, WVYC will continue contributing to Canberra’s cultural life, including its traditional role in Carols by Candlelight, while Music for Canberra will provide  a strong platform for artistic growth and community engagement, continuing to host Canberra Youth Orchestra, Youth Concert Band, Children’s Choir, and the Mixed Abilities Program.