A Chorus of Women – Events
Upcoming events
Complete list of past events
Click below for Chorus presentations by year.
2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003
Highlights
Read here about:
- Ethos 50th anniversary celebrations, 15 December 2011
- The Gifts of the Furies
- Canberra Conversations
- 'Longing for Wisdom on our Changing Climate'
- 'On the Edge of Silence'
- Chorus and climate change
- The UNIFEM Spring Walk 2007
- International Women's Day 2007
- The CD of A Chorus of Women
Celebrating Ethos, Spirit of the Community
Civic Square, Canberra 5.30 - 7.15pm Thursday 15 December 2011
This event included a ceremony, stories and songs to renew the meaning of Ethos as the spirit of our community. Click here to view an invitation.
This spirit touched the Legislative Assembly with ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher among the MLAs from all three parties joining to co-sponsor the celebration.
Created at a time when Canberra was more plan than metropolis, the future spirit that master sculptor Tom Bass dreamed into the form of Ethos is our city's first and best loved artwork. Along with words he heard her speak during his 90th year in 2005, she continues to inspire our citizens' chorus. We often include her in our community events for peace and caring for the Earth.
If you attended one of our performances of The Gifts of the Furies -- Glenda's mythic story-song about relations between people and Earth -- you will have heard the 'I am Ethos' song and seen Ethos come to life as an embodiment of community wisdom. On 15 December, Ethos was again sung by Judith Clingan, our gloriously voiced musician-composer who has taught thousands of Canberrans to love singing.
Tom Bass regarded Ethos as the most significant of all his public sculptures. In his autobiography, he wrote: "I saw my task as being to create an emblem that would express the real possibilities of a place like Canberra. I began with a saucer-like base ... In that bowl you can see the Burley Griffin plan and the topographical features of Canberra. The figure rises up out of this. She wears a garment and its fabric is the people of Canberra, the ever-changing community... She is winged, which expresses the spirit of the place."
Click here to read Ethos's substantial citation in the ACT Heritage Register, including more notes on her symbolism, and quotes from newspapers of 1959 - 61 at. For more information about Ethos read Glenda Cloughley's paper Looking at Ethos.
The Gifts of the Furies
Glenda Cloughley’s big story song about climate change is perhaps the first Australian artwork to recognise the mythic scale of the climate change crisis. In beautiful new poetry and music it portrays the predicament of everyone including the artist whose soul is possessed by the fate of the age. Like the myth of the Eumenides the Greek poet Aeschylus dramatized in The Oresteian Trilogy, the new work moves from the dark core of our present situation on the warming Earth towards the possibility of harmony between people and nature.
To hear the big voice of our Citizens' Chorus in the Finale of the work, click here.
2011 Performance
On 30 October 2011 at 10am presented The Gifts of the Furies at City Uniting Church, Northbourne Avenue, Canberra as an act of worship to a congregation of 200. This was part of a series of events at the church in October under the title 'Caring for Creation'. Click here for more information.
This performance followed our participation in last year's climate change forum at City Uniting Church. Other presenters were Bishop George Browning, former Anglican bishop of Canberra and Goulburn and Dr. John Williams, NSW Commissioner of Natural Resources and member of the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists. Click here for a printable flyer.
2010 Performances
The 2010 performances were presented by A Chorus of Women in partnership with the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House on 11, 18 and 25 September. The project was supported by a grant from ArtsACT. All three performances were booked out two weeks before the premiere.
Click here for more background on the story and the structure of the work.
Click here for a two-page printable flier.
We sang and played this ancient and new storysong in Kings Hall, with a procession into the House of Representatives, for the Trial - the first courtroom drama in Western theatre history. Here Lord Reason, the god of civilisation, confronted the Furies of Earth, the divinities of Nature. As former Prime Minister, Bob Hawke announced in the last performance - in the story the votes are tied. But our audiences voted 2:1 in favour of Mother Nature.
The performances ended back in Kings Hall, with a reconciliation between the forces of Nature and urban civilisation - led by Ethos, the spirit of community. The audience joined the Citizens' Chorus in commenting on our predicament and singing the feeling of citizens back into the theatre, in the Museum of Australian Democracy. Audience responses were enthusiastic. Former Prime Minister, Bob Hawke had this to say:
... I want to say to you Glenda and all those associated with you how profoundly I appreciated and enjoyed the production. The basically important thing for me Glenda is this: I share your view that the challenge of our environment is not second, third or fourth. It is the number one issue. And that you have had the imagination and the vision to present this issue as a challenge in such an imaginative way –– we are all indebted to you. Thank you very much.
Click here to see a 10 minute video of excerpts of the last performance. Click here to see some photos from the final rehearsals.
A post performances forum was faciliated by Chorus member Dr. Janet Salisbury and attended by members of the cast and audiences, including Prof. Val Brown from the Fenner School, ANU, Maxine Cooper, the ACT Commissioner for Sustainability and the Environment and Dr. John Williams from the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists.
A Chorus of Women welcomes your financial support
Our production costs for The Gifts of the Furies have exceeded the ACT Government funding for the work and we would be grateful for any additional financial support. Donations can be made by cheque to ‘A Chorus of Women’ (mail to: A Chorus of Women, c/- 44 Dumaresq St, Dickson, ACT 2602) or by electronic funds transfer (Account name: A Chorus of Women BSB: 062908 Account number: 10436154).
2009 Performances
CD OF THE MARCH 2009 PERFORMANCES
To order a 2 CD set of 'The Gifts of the Furies', click here
What can we do but wait in the dark
and watch while the weather roars in?
A Chorus of Canberra Citizens sang an answer to this question about the changing climate in two premiere performances of The Gifts of the Furies in the Great Hall of the Australian National Universityon 29 and 30 March 2009.
The March performances of The Gifts of the Furies were presented by A Chorus of Women with Wayfarers Australia and other choristers under the musical direction of Johanna McBride and Judith Clingan AM. After both performances the audience was invited to a conversation with the composer, performers and Chorus. Artist Bronwyn Goss writes:
The two premiere performances of The Gifts of the Furies on the Sunday and Monday nights, in which A Chorus of Women were joined by Wayfarers Canberra, were almost sold out. A Chorus of Women has risen in Canberra, as a phenomenon of our times and its place - a city state at the centre of Australian democracy. ‘Our times’ constitute an increasingly politically savvy and educated population impatient with spin and hubris who are longing for wisdom from decision-makers. And A Chorus of Women has become known for their synthesis of this emotionally intelligent citizens’ voice that speaks through original music and theatre into the concerns of our age. Wayfarers, led by Canberra’s musical genius and inspirational creative spirit, Judith Clingan AM, added sweet young voices and rich male tones to the warm Chorus sound.
Bronwyn Goss goes on to write about her experience as a member of the audience:
There is something about singing that opens the heart and this story-song has activated an emotional telos that runs from a sense of doom towards its longing for wisdom. And the audience can hardly wait to sing their promise with the chorus. You wouldn’t believe how good this felt – to sing my citizen’s voice into this archetypal healing track. ... 'The Gifts of the Furies' is Glenda Cloughley’s own wise and compassionate gift of cultural therapy against the dilemmas of our time. It now needs to do its work amongst us all.
To read Bronwyn Goss' full report, click here.
FURTHER PERFORMANCES
We are actively seeking other opportunities to present the The
Gifts of the Furies in whole or part, including in association
with academic and scientific meetings. Please contact
us or Glenda on 6239 6483 or at glenda.cloughley@ozemail.com.au.
Canberra Conversations
A Chorus of Women have started a series of citizen conversations on topics of importance for our future. The aim is to see how community engagement and wise decision making can be helped by a more open dialogue among citizens, scientists, artists, business people and policy makers.These ‘Canberra Conversations’ include artistic expression and facilitated discussion to create an environment for active engagement by the people with important issues that will shape the future of the city and country. The aim is to explore different perspectives on issues and try to find the common ground that will inform wise actions.
If you would like to hear more about this initiative or to help out in any way, please contact us.
FROM PROMISE TO ACTION: How will we turn the tide on Canberra's carbon emissions?
In association with the ANU Climate Change Institute
sponsored by MLAs Mary Porter AM and Caroline Le Couteur
with assistance from an ACT Government Environment Grant
ACT Legislative Assembly, Civic
Monday 1 August 2011, 6pm for 6.30-9.30pm
Read the flyer or more information click here. If you would like to read a report of this event, click here.
For further information on Canberra Conversations and other activities of A Chorus of Women, see www.chorusofwomen.org or email Janet Salisbury on janetsalisbury25@gmail.com.
FILLING IN CANBERRA: Can a denser city still be ‘a home among the gum trees’?
In association with the ANU Climate Change Institute
ACT Legislative Assembly, Civic
Tuesday 31 May 2011, 6-9 pm
Canberra’s population is expected to increase by about 80,000 in the next 20 years. During the Canberra 2030: Time to Talk forums in 2010, and at our previous Canberra Conversation, people expressed support for ‘well designed’ urban infill (rather than increasing urban sprawl) to accommodate this increased population. Meanwhile, 2010 also saw community discussion about the removal of some large, well loved trees from streets and parks around Canberra, and an investigation into the management of Canberra’s ‘urban forest’ overall.
This conversation explored the following questions about the opportunities and challenges of creating a denser and more sustainable city:
- What do we mean by ‘well designed’? What approaches to density offer the best sustainability outcomes – socially, culturally, economically and environmentally?
- How important are urban trees for Canberra? What contribution do they make to sustainability?
- How can we best contribute to ACT processes and regulatory frameworks for implementing ‘good design’?
For further information about this conversation view the flyer by clicking here. For a summary of the event click here.
CANBERRA - CELEBRATING 2010 AND IMAGINING 2030: What could be possible when Canberra citizens, business and government work together to co-create a sustainable city?
In association with the ANU Climate Change Institute
ACT Legislative Assembly, Civic
Wednesday 1 December 2010, 6-9 pm
At this end of year Canberra Conversation we celebrated recent achievements and looked to what might be possible for 2030. We celebrated 2010 as the year that the ACT set a 40% emissions target for 2020 and started a bold community dialogue about the future of Canberra — Canberra 2030: Time to Talk.
To hear the beginning of our chosen theme song for our conversation on 1 December, click here (words and music by Glenda Cloughley).
To view a flyer, click here. For a summary of this event, click here.
Canberra's future: Thinking together about sustainability, development and growth
In association with the ANU Climate Change Institute
ACT Legislative Assembly, Civic
Thursday 27 May 2010, 6-9 pm
This Canberra Conversation explored what a ‘sustainable’ future for Canberra might look like, focusing on development of the built environment in Canberra. For more information click here. For a summary of the event click here.
Finding wisdom on climate change across the political divide
A Canberra Conversation hosted by A Chorus of Women and the ANU
Climate Change Institute
with assistance from an ACT Government Environment Grant
ACT Legislative Assembly, Civic
Thursday 4 March 2010, 6-9 pm
At this Canberra Conversation we considered the recent debate in Australia about emissions trading and the outcomes of the Copenhagen summit, and facilitated a community dialogue around the following questions:
While focusing on climate change, the aim of this conversation was to explore how dialogue can provide the basis for community consideration of difficult and potentially divisive issues, providing a more creative way of developing public policy. To view the flyer click here. For a summary of the event click here.
Transport for the Canberra community: thinking together
about wise moves
Presented by A Chorus of Women in collaboration with the ANU
Climate Change Institute
with assistance from an ACT Government Environment Grant
Theo Notaras Multicultural Centre, London Circuit
Monday 26 October 2009, 6-9pm
Our fourth Canberra Conversation sought to unravel the complexities of this topic and stimulate innovative ways forward. Professor Will Steffen (Executive Director, ANU Climate Change Institute) brought a climate change and sustainability perspective to the conversation, particularly in relation to integrated approaches to transport.To view the flyer click here. For a summary of the event click here. For a response to this Canberra Conversation by the ACT Chief Minister click here.
Science and the creative arts: a potent collaboration
for change?
A National Science Week Event
CSIRO Discovery Theatre
23 August 2009, 2.30-6pm
Our third Canberra Conversation was held as part of the National Science Week 2009. What can the creative arts contribute to public discourse on global environmental change? And why is it particularly important to bring scientists and artists together in working collaborations, rather than have them work in isolation from one another? These questions and others were addressed in this special Science Week Canberra Conversation. Prominent local scientists and artists were invited to contribute and A Chorus of Women provided live artistic contributions, including original music written and directed by Chorus members Glenda Cloughley, Judith Clingan AM and Johanna McBride. The event was facilitated by Dr Janet Salisbury. For further information click here. For a summary of the event click here.
Emissions Trading - our way forward to greenhouse gas
reductions?
Hosted by A Chorus of Women and the ANU Climate Change
Institute
ACT Legislative Assembly
26 May 2009, 6-9 pm
For further information click here.
Our second Canberra Conversation revolved around the current political debate about the emissions trading scheme and other ways in which Australia can find the cuts in greenhouse gases that are required to avert dangerous climate change. How can we reconcile environmental needs with political/economic 'imperatives'? How can we have an open dialogue about this most urgent issue that might lead towards creative solutions?
Canberra’s energy future: thinking together about ways
forward
Hosted by A Chorus of Women and the ANU Climate Change Institute
ACT Legislative Assembly
26 February 2009, 6-9 pm
70 participants
Our first Canberra Conversation was run in collaboration with the ANU Climate Change Institute and we welcomed Professor Will Steffen, Executive Director of the institute as our co-host for the event. The three-hour conversation combined information exchange with small and whole group discussions, and original songs voicing the social and ethical challenges that these subjects present for our community. Through these elements we hoped to create a non-adversarial environment where we could inform ourselves and other participants on the topic of stationary energy production and use in Canberra and, more importantly, listen carefully to the diversity of views represented in the room. By welcoming diverse opinions and focusing on listening to one another, we sought to imagine shared approaches to tackle the complex issues surrounding energy production and use.
For further information click here. To view the program click here. For a summary of the event click here. Bob Douglas, founder and Chair of SEE-Change and Chair of Australia 21, reviewed the event.
Longing for Wisdom on our Changing Climate
Senior climate scientists said they were moved by our 2008 National Science Week presentation that began with our feeling that the world is crying out for action on climate change and hearing too little response from our leaders.
The presentation included excerpts from The Gifts of the Furies, Glenda Cloughley's radical retelling of The Oresteian Trilogy by Aeschylus. Through beautiful original music this Western lawsong moves from the tragedy of climate change to reconciliation between city-based societies and earth. See the What's New page for more details. Click here to listen to an excerpt of the performance.
The Chorus was joined by Janette Lindesay, Associate Professor of Climatology in the Fenner School of Environment and Society, ANU.
Dr Janette Lindesay
The presentation in the National Convention Centre led into a lively dialogue with audience members facilitated by Chorus member Janet Salisbury.
Audience and Chorus join together in singing Ubuntu at the end of the evening
On the Edge of Silence
On the Edge of Silence, CSIRO Discovery Theatre (photo by Nigel McRae)
Through two special presentations for National Science Week in August 2007, A Chorus of Women voiced some emotional and ethical aspects of the climate change crisis. These performances followed the presentation in April of an earlier version of On the Edge of Silence at the Two Fires Festival in Braidwood, which celebrates and continues the lifework of Judith Wright in arts and activism.
This work focussed on the burden environmental scientists hold as they wait for the rest of society to act on knowledge about the dangers of climate change. To read responses from some of the nationally prominent scientists in our audience click here.
In preparing the script, we drew guidance from current climate science and the writings of Australian poet and conservationist Judith Wright. We combined material from these and philosophical sources with our own music, dance, poetry and personal stories.
Each performance was followed by a lively discussion with the audience, facilitated by Chorus member Dr Janet Salisbury, a scientist and science communicator.
We are grateful for support for the performances from the Australian Government through the ACT National Science Week Co-ordinating Committee.
Chorus and climate change
As climate change has become a passionate concern of Chorus our composers have written many new songs that we have performed at major public events.
A Chorus of Women brought several walking songs to the Canberra Walk against Warming in November 2007. The songs have had several community airings since then. You can download pdf files of the sheet music below.
The Weather Makers, named after Australian of the Year Tim Flannery's best-selling book, is the first song by scientist Dr. Janet Salisbury. The lyrics of Our Footprints were written around Sue Hoffmann's dining table by several Chorus women. Sue Hoffmann, Zahira-Madeleine Bullock and Johanna McBride each contributed a round.
| The Weather Makers | |
| Our Footprints | |
| Rounds for the Planet |
New music by Glenda Cloughley, Judy Clingan and Johanna McBride was sung for the first time at the For Love of the World event to an appreciative audience of about 250 people at the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture in Canberra in December. Other participants –– all with similar messages about climate change to ours –– were poet–cartoonist Michael Leunig, Bishop George Browning, scientist Dr Mike Rapauch, farmer Alexa Barr, Graham Tupper from the Australian Conservation Foundation, three children and Rev Linda Chapman of the Open Sanctuary@Tilba who initiated the event. Chorus was accompanied by the accomplished violinist Rowan Harvey-Martin and Eleanor Waterford on recorder.
We presented the same music in the ACT Legislative Assembly at the launch of the 'Atmosphere of Hope' art exhibition. This Wildart response to global overheating by South Coast artists was opened by Dr Deb Foskey MLA in May 2007.
Lyrics for the new music –– Dear Earth, Planet We Share and Songs to the Earth –– are in the Songs/Lyrics link on this website. We welcome the use of our music by others, so if you would like sheet music, please contact us.
Spring Sing 2007!
More than 150 Canberrans sang for peace in a citizen's chorus in the centre of the city on International Day of Peace, 21 September 2007.
Harmony was the theme and outcome of this happy event, initiated by A Chorus of Women to raise money for several UNIFEM Peace Scholars from Afghanistan to study in Australia.
Seven other choral groups joined us:
Llewellyn Choir
Out of the Shower and On With the Show
Wayfarers, with singers from Womensing and The Carers' Choir
Union Voices
SCUNA
Canberra Gay And Lesbian Qwire
Canberra Youth Choir
We sang for each other and together, and brought joyous songs to Friday night shoppers in the Canberra Centre, which provided generous support for the event.
The Spring Sing! concluded with community singing and brief, moving speeches from Stella Wilkie, Canberra Quakers; Sue Conde, Vice-President, UNIFEM Australia; and Ellen Hansen, UNHCR who read the International Peace Day message from UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon.
If you would like to download the sheet music or listen to sound files please click below.
| Lament | ||
| Call to Peace | ||
| A Recipe for Peace | ||
| Peace Round | ||
| Sing as We Travel | ||
| Ubuntu |
International Women's Day contributions
Chorus sang three rousing songs for peace to 900 guests at the 2008 UNIFEM IDW lunch.
At the 2007UNIFEM lunch Chorus performed 'Love Has a Voice', the new song dedicated to the young Afghan parliamentarian Malalai Joya by Glenda Cloughley. Malalai and many of the 850 guests were visibly moved at our tribute to the brave work being carried out towards human rights in Afghanistan. 'Love Has a Voice' was also our fourth anniversary song and included 'Lament', with which our Chorus began in March 2003. The lyrics can be found on our Songs page. Click here to hear a recording.
Chorus also presented a program of five original songs at the 2007 ACT International Women's Day Awards in the Legislative Assembly.
'Giving Voice' – the first CD of A Chorus of Women
'Giving Voice' is a compilation of 15 songs reflecting the concerns and creativity of A Chorus of Women. The songs and the accompanying booklet form a story of the activities of the Chorus over nearly four years. |
 |
The CD was launched by ACT Senator Kate Lundy at the ACT Legislative Assembly on Monday 11 December 2006. Chorus sang a selection of songs from the CD and Kate Lundy gave a very moving speech about the role A Chorus of Women had played in voicing the concerns of citizens, including politicians.
If you want to order a copy of 'Giving Voice' click here to download an order form.
Chorus presentations by year
2012
10 March 2012 - Wayfarers Choral Prom - Live to Sing Sing to Live
A Chorus of Women participated in this inspiring community music making event, which was a fundraiser for Judith Clingan's Wayfarer International Tour (for details see wayfarersaustralia.org). Other participating groups were SCUNA, Canberra Choral Society, Llewellyn Choir, Ecopella and the host choir, Wayfarers. We sang our songs and told our story to the receptive audience. There was much
sharing of musicians and choristers among choral groups and combined music making. The evening ended in all present joining to sing our song Ubuntu.
2011
15 December 2011 - 50th anniversary celebration of the Ethos sculpture
This event included songs, stories and ceremony to renew the meaning of Ethos as the spirit of our community. Click here to read more.
30 October 2011 - The Gifts of the Furies in church
We presented a special version of Glend Cloughley's story song as an act of worship at City Uniting Church in Canberra to around 200 people. Click here to read more.
23 August 2011 - Dialogue gathering at the ANU Centre for Dialogue
Chorus, led by Janet Salisbury gave an informal demonstration of our way of holding conversations, with open dialogue and musical contributions.
1 August 2011 - Canberra Conversation 9: FROM PROMISE TO ACTION: How will we turn the tide on Canberra's carbon emissions?
This Canberra Conversation asked questions about what needs to happen to achieve the ACTs legislated target of reducing greenhouse gasses by 40% by 2030. Click here to read more.
5 June 2011 - Climate Change Bridge Walk
We gathered a spontaneous Citizens' Chorus for this big rallye against climate change, attended by thousands of Canberrans. Following addresses by speakers including John Hewson the crowd joined with us in singing our song 'We are the generation that needs to take a stand. We are the weathermakers, our future's in our hands."
31 May 2011 - Canberra Conversation 8: FILLING IN CANBERRA: Can a denser city still be ‘a home among the gum trees’?
This Canberra Conversation focussed on the challenges of accommodating the increase of Canberra's population expected by 2030, the merits of 'well designed' urban infill versus urban sprawl. Developer Nectar Efkarpidis and Maxine Cooper, Commissioner for Sustainability and the Environment gave presentations. Click here to read more.
24 April 2011 - Inaugural Anzac Eve Peace Vigil
Around 150 people gathered on top of Mount Ainslie at sunset of Anzac eve for a ceremony, followed by a procession of lanterns down Mount Ainslie. This was followed by singing at the foot of Mount Ainslie and a lantern walk down Anzac Parade. A particularly moving aspect of the Peace Vigil was the connection with members of the local Aboriginal community who participated in the event in the spirit of reconciliation. Click here for a flyer of the event. Click here to read Annie Didcott's account of last year's event written for WILPF.
8 March 2011 - Bridge Walk for the 100th Anniversary of International Women's Day
A Chorus of Women was part of this happy occasion, contributing songs and leading some spirited community singing.
2010
1 December 2010 - Canberra Conversation 7: CANBERRA - CELEBRATING 2010 AND IMAGINING 2030: What could be possible when Canberra citizens, business and government work together to co-create a sustainable city?
We celebrated 2010 as the year that the ACT set a 40% emissions target for 2020 and started a bold community dialogue about the future of Canberra — Canberra 2030: Time to Talk. Click here to read more.
4 November 2010 - Conference of the ACT Council of Social Services
This conference at CIT Reid focussed on the theme 'defining diversity'. Our songs focussed on different voices and stories in the community and the search for harmony.
11, 18 and 25 September 2010 - performances of "The Gifts of the Furies"
in partnership with the Museum of Australian Democracy we staged three fully booked performances with a cast of 80 in Kings Hall and the House of Representatives in Old Parliament House. Click here to read more.
4 September 2010 - Climate Change Forum at Canberra City Uniting Church
In the lead up to our 2010 season of The Gifts of the Furies we gathered a Citizens' Chorus to present excerpts of the work for this forum with guest speakers John Williams and Bishop George Browning.
27 May 2010 - Canberra Conversation 6: Canberra's future: Thinking together about sustainability, development and growth
This Canberra Conversation explored what a ‘sustainable’ future for Canberra might look like, focusing on development of the built environment in Canberra. Click here to read more.
6 May 2010 - ACT Launch of 1,000 000 Women Campaign
The campaign was launched by the founder Natalie Isaacs and compered by Alex Sloane from ABC Radio 666 Canberra. We offered songs on climate change and led all present in some community singing. Click here for more information about the 1,000 000 Women Campaign.
28 April 2010 - 95th Birthday of WILPF
Chorus contributed a number of songs to this anniversary of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom. It also featured a lecture by Professor Marilyn Lake entitled "Rediscovering Australia's Peace History".
4 March 2010 - Canberra Conversation 5: Finding wisdom on climate change across the political divide
This Conversation deailt with the debate in Australia about emissions trading and the outcomes of the Copenhagen summit. Click here to read more.
2009
11 December 2009 – Launch of 'The Gifts of the Furies' premiere performances CD setin March 2009
Historian and religious commentator Dr Paul Collins launched the double CD set of the March 2009 performances of “The Gifts of the Furies” at University House. Chorus sang excerpts from the work at the launch.
4 December 2009 – Release of the ACT Planning and Land Authority Sustainable Future Workshop Discussion Paper
Chorus was invited to sing at the launch of the publication by Minister Andrew Barr at Black Mountain Tower. Chorus also sang at one of the workshops, which were the basis for this publication (on 1 December 2008).
22 November 2009 - RIVER: just add water
Chorus member Dr Nicky Grigg chaired a public forum at The Street Theatre, with invited speakers Dr Richard Greene, Dr Peter Fletcher and Dr Michael Raupach. She also sang a song written by chorus member Glenda Cloughley, with the lyrics ' How to tell my girl what the climate science says?', accompanied by A Chorus of Women and cellist David Pereira (click here for complete lyrics). The forum preceded the dance performance "River" by the Mirramu Dance Company.
26 October 2009 – Canberra Conversation 4: Transport for the Canberra community: thinking together about wise moves
This conversation sought to unravel the complexities
of this topic and stimulate innovative ways forward. Click here to read more.
23 August 2009 – Canberra Conversation 3: Science and the creative arts: a potent collaboration for change?
The third Canberra Conversation was hosted by Chorus as part of National Science Week and held at the CSIRO Discovery Centre. Prominent local scientists and
artists were invited to contribute. Click here to read more.
11 June 2009 – Violent Ends: The Arts of Environmental Anxiety
Chorus contributed to an event at the National Museum convened by Carolyn Strange from the Research School of Humnanities, Australian National University which sought to explore the feelings of dread related to the threats of global warming, as well as ways to hope. Click here for more information about the event. Click here for Chorus' operning contribution. Click here for the closing performance, 'Reconciliation'.
26 May 2009 – Canberra Conversation 2: Emissions Trading - our way forward to greenhouse gas reductions?
This was the second in the series of ‘Canberra Conversations’, hosted by Chorus in collaboration with the ANU Climate Change Institute. It revolved around the current
political debate about the emissions trading scheme and other ways in
which Australia can find the cuts in greenhouse gases that are required
to avert dangerous climate change. Click here to read more.
29 & 30 March 2009 – Premiere Performances of ‘The Gifts of the Furies’
The premiere performances of The Gifts of the Furies were
presented by A Chorus of Women with Wayfarers Australia and other
choristers under the musical direction of Johanna McBride and Judith
Clingan AM. After both performances the audience was invited to a
conversation with the composer, performers and Chorus. Click here to read more.
28 March 2009 – Two Fires Festival of Arts and Activism, Braidwood
Chorus sang excerpts from ‘The Gifts of the Furies’. Did Glenda give a paper?
5 March 2009 –International Women’s Day Lunch
Chorus sang xxx at UNIFEM’s International Women’s Day Lunch in Canberra. with guest speaker Fozillitun Nessa.
26 February 2009 – Canberra Conversation 1: Canberra’s energy future: thinking together about ways forward
The first of a series of public dialogue events initiated by Chorus on topics of importance for our future, which seek to explore diverse perspectives on issues and try to find common ground that can inform wise actions. This conversation was held in collaboration with the ANU Climate Change Institute and explored the topic of stationary energy production and use in Canberra. Click here to see a review of the conversation by one of the participants. For more information on Canberra Conversations, the thinking behind the series and how they are conducted (including the contribution made by artistic input contributed by Chorus), click here.
2008
4 December 2008 - Woden SEE-Change workshop 'I'm Dreaming of a Green Christmas'
In the lead up to Christmas Chorus contributed a bracket of songs, including some well known Christmas songs with new lyrics to this workshop focussing on reducing consumption.
The audience joined in enthusiastically.
1 December 2008 - ACT Planning Commission culture and knowledge workshop
Chorus was invited to sing at the conclusion of a presentation by Dr Kate Rigby entitled Culture and Environment: Historical perspectives and Canberra’s future. We sang 'Lament for Gaia' and 'Dreaming' from the Songs to the Earth by Glenda Cloughley, as a contribution to the workshop's focus on 'Sustainable Future'.
12 October 2008 - Get Up Climate Torch Relay in Canberra
Chorus sang at the presentation ceremony on the lawns of the Australian Parliament House. This was the culmination of a national Get Up campaign to raise awareness of climate change.
28 August 2008 - National Library 40th birthday event honouring Tom Bass
One of the most delightful occasions in our history was to sing 'I Am Ethos' to 92-year-old sculptor Tom Bass. This was a surprise gift from 15 Chorus women of Glenda Cloughley's musical setting of Tom Bass' poem as an anthem for Canberra.
22 August 2008 - Longing for Wisdom on our Changing Climate
Our contribution to National Science Week drew on a wisdom story from the European tradition as a response to current political and ethical dilemmas surrounding climate change. The Chorus was joined by Dr. Janette Lindesay, Associate Professor of Climatology in the Fenner School of Environment and Society, ANU.
20 June 2008 - Climate Change and the Crisis of Reason
At this symposium to honour the life and work of Dr. Val Plumwood Chorus joined Glenda Cloughley in presenting excerpts from 'The Gifts of the Furies' and a case for consulting ancient European teachings about right relations between culture and nature.
23 April 2008 - WILPF Anniversary - 93 years. What have we learned?
A Chorus of Women sang the Lament we began with and other songs to accompany papers by WILPF International Vice President Felicity Hill, 'Women Building a World without War', Australian War Memorial historian Janette Condon, 'Changing Attitudes of Soldiers to War' and Glenda Cloughley, 'Mothering Peace'. Click here to read Glenda's paper.
6 March 2008 - International Women's Day Lunch
Chorus sang three rousing songs for peace to 900 guests at the 2008 UNIFEM IWD lunch.
10 February 2008 - SEE Change picnic
Chorus songs about climate change added music to this community event. Its purpose was to celebrate the steps SEE-Changes groups are making to ignite meaningful action in Canberra suburbs on issues such as climate change
8 February 2008 - The Gifts of the Furies
This was a work-in-progress performance of Glenda Cloughley's new epic story song about the crisis of climate change for Canberra Jung Society. The work is based in part on the Oresteian Trilogy of the ancient Greek poet Aeschylus.
2007
18 and 19 August 2007 - On the Edge of Silence
Two presentations of our performance work about emotional and ethical dimensions of the climate change crisis were given in Canberra as part of the National Science Festival.
25 May 2007 - Atmosphere of Hope Art Exhibition
20 Chorus women welcomed a large group of artists from the South Coast of New South Wales to Canberra. We sang six original songs by Chorus women about living in harmony with the earth, in keeping with the moving themes of the paintings and sculptural works shown in the ACT Legislative Assembly.
1 April 2007 - Two Fires Festival Braidwood
We presented the original version of 'On the Edge of Silence' as a 'poetic response to the crisis of climate change' in St. Bede's Church in Braidwood. The Two Fires Festival is held biennially and celebrates and continues the lifework of Judith Wright in arts and activism.
9 March 2007 - Canberra IWD UNIFEM Lunch with Malalai Joya MP
We sang 'Love Has a Voice', composed especially for this occasion to honour Malalai Joya, the young Afghan parlamentarian who was UNIFEM's guest of honour at Rydges Lakeside Hotel. See Songs page for lyrics. Click here to hear a recording of the song.
8 March 2007 - ACT IWD Awards
A Chorus of Women were invited to present the program of songs we called 'Celebrating Women' at the ACT Legislative Assembly for Canberra's annual awards to honour women's achievements in the city.
24 February 2007 - Garden Party for Emily's List, ACT
A Chorus of Women were invited to sing at a garden party for the ACT members of Emily's List. We presented three songs collectively titled 'Songs for Politicians' to encourage our women representatives in both the ACT and Australian parliaments to listen carefully to the voices and the longings of the people they represent.
2006
11 December 2006 - Launch of 'Giving Voice', the first CD of A Chorus of Women
Giving Voice is a compilation of 15 songs reflecting the concerns and creativity of A Chorus of Women. The CD was launched by ACT Senator Kate Lundy at the ACT
Legislative Assembly. To order a copy of Giving Voice
click here to download an order form. For more details see the Highlights section above.
2 December 2006 – New Songs for Love of the World
Chorus sang three new songs composed by members in the month before For Love of the World, an interfaith call to action on climate change attended by 250 people at the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture. Other presenters were poet-cartoonist Michael Leunig, Bishop George Browning, local farmer Alexa Barr, three children, scientist Dr Mike Rapauch and Graham Tupper from the Australian Conservation Foundation.
11 November 2006 – Songs for Remembrance and Renewal
Chorus presented a half-hour concert, including new lyrics to some of our songs, for Remembrance Day. The concert in St Paul’s Anglican Church Manuka, Canberra, took place during the church community’s fete.
24 October 2006 – 30 years on – How Safe Are We?
At the launch of exhibitions marking 30 years of Reclaim the Night and addressing issues of domestic violence and sexual violence towards women and children, Chorus sang songs and poetry prepared especially for the occasion. The exhibitions were jointly organised by Canberra Rape Crisis Centre and the YWCA Of Canberra.
15 October 2006 – SIEV X Memorial event
With 250 community groups from around Australia, Chorus members painted a large memorial pole and participated in a moving pole-raising ceremony commemorating the 353 lives lost when a refugee boat sank while seeking safety in Australian waters in October 2001.
24 September 2006 – Sydney Peace Festival – Peace Concert
Chorus members travelled to Sydney to sing in a rally for peace at the University of Sydney, organised by Ministry for Peace – Australia.
21 September 2006 – Peace in our Time? – a musical peace happening
In this concert organised by Judith Clingan to mark International Day of Peace, Chorus presented seven songs in a rich program featuring numerous Canberra music groups.
17 September 2006 – Merry Muse Folk Club
Chorus sang a bracket of songs for peace at Canberra’s folk club.
4 and 19 August 2006 – Sharing Grief – Breaking Bread
To express our grief and solidarity at the height of the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Chorus led two symbolic acts of sharing and reconciliation. We gathered with others in the pedestrian mall, walked to the statue of Ethos in Civic Square and shared bread, singing our new song for the occasion, A Recipe for Peace.
3 July 2006 – Neshan - 2006 International Exhibition of the Badge
Chorus sang at the opening of this exhibition organised by Ardeshir Gholipour, an Iranian artist and journalist living in Canberra on a temporary protection visa.
30 June 2006 – Phoenix Rising, Forrest Fire Station Museum, Canberra
Vera Sapov, a Chorus member, co-ordinated this exhibition of work by Canberra artists about the 2003 Canberra firestorm. Chorus spoke and sang excerpts from Websong and Glenda Cloughley opened the exhibition.
2 June 2006 – Democracy and the People’s Chorus
In this lecture-performance for Canberra Jung Society, Chorus presented songs and stories and led a conversation with the audience.
8 March 2006 – Polychromatica Art Exhibition Opening
Chorus sang at this opening of works by local women artists at the M16 Gallery.
2005
13 November 2005 – Picnic at Peace Park
Chorus members and friends gathered to celebrate peace with flowers, song and shared food at the little-known Peace Park in Canberra’s parliamentary triangle.
30 October 2005 – ArtSound Radio project
Local community radio ArtSound produced a program exploring women’s participation in Canberra choirs. The Chorus songs and a conversation with 20 Chorus women recorded in October 2005 went to air on 20 May 2006.
19 October 2005 – SIEV X Memorial Event
Chorus sang at this moving meeting in Pilgrim House, Canberra, which marked the fourth anniversary of the sinking of the SIEV X refugee boat on its way to Australia, when 353 people drowned.
17 and 22 October 2005 – WILPF 90th Anniversary celebrations, Civic Square
Chorus participated in the opening ceremony of the week-long Festival of Peace which marked the 90th anniversary of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom. We also gave a major 40-minute presentation of songs and stories; corresponded with Tom Bass, the 90-year-old sculptor of Canberra’s beloved Ethos sculpture, which resulted in him sending a peace poem to Canberra citizens in the voice of Ethos; and we joined with a group from Sydney Chorus of Women who sang on the final day of the festival.
24 & 25 September 2005 – Websong at the Bloom Festival
Chorus performed Websong as part of the Bloom Festival, a music festival organised by the brand new Music ACT Association to coincide with Floriade 2005.
13 August 2005 – 60th Anniversary of the United Nations – Conference
A Chorus of Women was invited to open a conference at the Australian National University to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the UN Charter. The conference was organised by the United Nations Association of Australia. Chorus contributed a presentation entitled "We The Peoples".
15 May 2005 Australian Democrats National Conference
Chorus presented a performance piece incorporating music and narrative, with content developed specifically to address issues being faced by the Democrats. Reports on the Conference can be seen on the
Australian Democrats website.
20 March 2005, Two Fires Festival of Arts and Activism, Braidwood
Chorus presented "Building a Chorus" – a blend of songs, story and drama – at this 4-day festival inspired by Australian poet and activist Judith Wright.
21 February 2005, 20th anniversary of the transfer of education of Registered Nurses in Australia to higher education.
Chorus sang at a dinner hosted by the Council of Deans of Nursing and Midwifery at Parliament House to celebrate this anniverary.
22–23 January 2005, 60th birthday celebrations for Judith Clingan
Chorus participated with many other musicians, artists and other friends of Chorus member Judith Clingan in celebrations marking her 60th birthday.
2004
10 December 2004, International Human Rights Day Symposium, Brisbane
Five Chorus members sang and presented a modified version of Glenda Cloughley's Temenos lecture (2004) at a symposium hosted by Griffith University's Centre for Public Culture and Ideas. The theme of the day was "Human Rights and the Creative Arts".
1 December 2004, Women's International League for Peace & Freedom (WILPF) website launch
Chorus sang at the launch at Parliament House of a website developed by WILPF Australia about UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. This Resolution highlights the impact of war and conflict on women and girls, and the importance of women's involvement in peace building.
1 November 2004, Remembrance Ceremony
Chorus sang at the annual Drug Law Reform ceremony in Canberra for people who have died through illicit drugs.
30 October – 21 November 2004, Barbara Blackman Temenos Foundation events
Chorus presented Websong at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, National Gallery of Australia and National Gallery of Victoria following Chorus member Glenda Cloughley's 2004 Temenos Lecture, Lament and Renewal in Temenos Oz, respectively on 30 October, 6 November and 20 November. The Chorus Temenos lecture-performance 'A Chorus of Women: Archaeomythic Memory and Present Desire' presented at the Sydney Theosophical Society, Great Hall of University House, ANU (presented jointly with the Humanities Research Centre, ANU) and National Gallery of Victoria, respectively on 30 October, 9 November and 21 November. Cilck here for a
transcript (760kb).
7 October 2004, Singing for the bereaved in our community
Chorus sang at the funeral of Kim Reilly, a close relative of a Chorus member.
7 and 8 August 2004, Websong presentation, Canberra Oneira Festival
Websong was presented twice in the James O. Fairfax Theatre, National Gallery of Australia, during the Oneira Festival of the Arts preceding the 2004 Greek Olympic Games.
11 August 2004, Protect Our Democracy Rally
Following the High Court decision confirming the legal indefinite detention of asylum seekers, Chorus sang at this rally to encourage the Australian Government to adopt more humane legislation.
13 June 2004, Websong performance, Sofia
The travelling chorus presented Websong at the Boris Christoff Music Centre, Sofia.
2–12 June 2004, Artists-in-residence, International Archaeomythology Symposium
Eleven members of Chorus presented most of the Chorus repertoire and Websong during an international symposium in Sofia and Rila, Bulgaria organised by the Institute of Archaeomythology, New Bulgarian University and National Museum of History, Sofia.
23 May 2004, Sisu Soirée preview presentation of Websong
Eleven travellers presented Websong at the Canberra home of Barbara Blackman to assist with fundraising for Bulgaria.
2 May 2004, A Chorus of Women In Concert, Canberra Museum and Gallery
This concert raised funds for creative development of our performance and ceremony work Websong and for travel to take up Chorus's appointment as artists-in-residence at an international symposium in Bulgaria organised by the Institute of Archaeomythology, New Bulgarian University and National Museum of History, Sofia, 2nd–13 June.
8 May 2004, Singing with midwives in celebration of International Midwives Day
Twelve members of Chorus joined members of the ACT Branch of the Australian College of Midwives to learn and sing ‘Sweet is the Milk' at The Birth Centre, Canberra Hospital.
April 29 2004, Singing for Mariam
Chorus sang at the ACT Legislative Assembly in support of Mariam Rawi's work with RAWA in Afghanistan.
22 April 2004, Launch of the poster for the Oniera Festival
Chorus sang at the Greek Embassy to launch the poster for Oniera - Evolution of Dreams, a celebration of the arts in Canberra in the lead-up to the Athens Olympics.
5 March 2004, Performance of ‘Man and Cloth' and other songs
Chorus performed to a group who were reflecting on improper conduct within the Church in hope that attitudinal change and appropriate action could be initiated.
February 2004, The Foyer Concerts, National Multicultural Festival
Chorus gave concerts in the foyers of Australian Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial and the ACT Legislative Assembly. At Parliament House, in response to a letter from the Joint House Department forbidding Chorus to sing ‘Children of Iraq' and ‘Your Cry Our Cry' ‘or any other songs relating to personal or political freedoms', Chorus complied with the ban and used purple scarves to gag words of songs relating to ‘personal or political freedoms' This action received national media coverage. The Department head and Speaker of the House, Neil Andrew, said a mistake had been made and that such a restriction would not be made in future.
2003
2 December 2003, ‘Peace on Earth!’ concert for Parliamentarians for Peace
A special concert was arranged to support and encourage Parliamentarians for Peace in our first return to the Main Foyer of Parliament House.
25 November 2003, ‘Late Night Live’ interview, Radio National
Phillip Adams interviewed Glenda Cloughley and Judith Clingan about the action on 18 March and subsequent Chorus activities. We sang ‘Lament’ and ‘Call to Peace’. The interview and songs went to air again during the summer holiday period.
23 November 2003, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Amnesty International Australia.
Members of Chorus presented a selection of songs for this event.
15 November 2003, ‘Music from Far and Near’, Austcare
night, Tilleys
Songs from our repertoire helped raise funds for the work of Austcare in a
benefit night hosted by Fred Smith at Tilley’s Devine Cafe Gallery, Lyneham.
5 November 2003, ‘On the Rim ... Looking In’ Pottery Exhibition Opening
Several Chorus songs and spoken text contributed to this opening of pottery by the RIMS Ceramics Group at Watson Arts Centre.
27 October 2003, Remembrance Ceremony
Chorus sang four songs at this annual ceremony for people who have died through illicit drugs in Weston Park, Yarralumla.
12 October 2003, Ceremony of Memory and National Museum Concert
A 45-minute concert accompanied by String Suite (string quartet) and Tegan Peemoeller (harp) was followed by the Ceremony of Memory to acknowledge trauma in the community from the January firestorm, Bali bombings and conflicts in Iraq and elsewhere.
20 September 2003, Fund-raising concert for refugee advocacy
Chorus contributed several songs to a well attended house concert.
18 September 2003, CSIRO Presentation ‘Finding a Voice’
Chorus presented a cultural ‘collage’ to a group of interstate scientists and administrative staff visiting Canberra. Conversation, reflection and thoughtful feedback followed.
August 2003, Women in Black Conference, Italy
Three Canberra Women in Black - Judith Bailey, Margaret Bearlin and Norma Hayman, all Chorus members - sang Lament at this international gathering. Words, music, story and CDs of Lament were distributed there and at the World YWCA Gathering in Brisbane so that Lament is now being sung in many languages on all continents around the world.
30 July 2003, Midwinter Choral festival, The Street Theatre, Canberra
A big night out with Chorus presenting 40 minutes of music and comment. Our guest artist was 14-year-old Robin Dalton.
26 July 2003, Goulburn Peace Feast. ‘Forks’n All’
A Chorus of Women performed seven songs during this multi-arts community event, organised by Lieder Theatre Company in and around St Saviour’s Cathedral.
25 July 2003, Exhibition opening, ACT Legislative Assembly
Chorus joined Women in Black to sing at the opening of Rose Osborne’s photographic exhibition documenting the events on 30 May.
16 and 17 July 2003, Psychology residential, University of Western Sydney
Chorus presented songs and activities as exemplars of ‘cultural therapy’ to Masters students enrolled in Cultural Madness and Therapy.
20 and 22 June 2003, National Day of Action for Refugees, Action for Refugees Rally
A Chorus of Women sang Lament on both occasions in Canberra.
6 June 2003, Release of an Oath, Riverside Theatre Centre, Parramatta
A Chorus of Women sang Lament in Elizabeth Cameron Dalman’s classic dance work of the 1970s by students from the UWS School of Contemporary Theatre Arts.
3 June 2003, Canberra Grammar School
Twelve members of Chorus sang Lament and spoke to 120 Year 11 boys. Glenda Cloughley gave a brief talk.
2 June 2003, Women on the Line, Helen Lobato interview on 3CR
Glenda Cloughley’s interview about A Chorus of Women was networked to
30 regional radio stations around Australia and generated numerous responses
from listeners.
May 2003, ABC Radio's 24 Hours magazine
Andrew Ford, writing on whether Australia should have a 'national composer' said Judith Clingan had composed a 'refreshing' work in Lament that 'turned beauty into political protest' and 'brought music to the heart of Australia's public life'.
30 May 2003, Women in Black/Rose Osborne Public Art Project
A Chorus of Women sang Lament at the shrouding in black of public art works in Civic, including Tom Bass's Ethos at the entrance to the ACT Legislative Assembly.
25 May 2003, Sorry Day involvement
A Chorus of Women sang Lament and the new Sorry Song, written for the occasion.
18 May 2003, Dance Week performance, Mirramu Dance Company
The Canberra Times said Chorus 'added depth and colour' to the dance and provided 'poignant and touching reminders of peoples without peace'.
14 May 2003, Lament Perspective, Radio National
The producer said this Perspective piece by Glenda Cloughley generated more responses than any other she had produced. Click here to view the transcript (160 kb).
April – July 2003, Wayfarers Choir European Tour with Judith Clingan
Music for Lament and Wishes for Leaders was often sought when Wayfarers Australia performed them. Both are being sung by European choirs. Audiences often reported strong emotional responses to Lament.
April 2003, Australian Women Speak Conference
Judith Clingan workshopped Lament with delegates to a session on creativity. Many were obviously moved.
20 April 2003, National Folk Festival performances, Canberra
Chorus sang to an audience of 2000 in the Peace Concert, and in the Ecumenical Peace Service.
13 April 2003, Australian War Memorial Concert, Canberra
At a concert in the Hall of Remembrance Chorus sang Lament, Wishes for Leaders and traditional peace songs.
29 March 2003, Rachum Labyrinth Opening, Murrumbateman
Chorus sang Lament at the opening of the Rachum Labyrinth at the home of Chorus member Alison Meretini.
24–28 March 2003, Formative Meetings
At well attended meetings we discovered the basis of a sustainable, collaborative, creatively energetic Chorus of Women, and embarked on weekly rehearsals, and philosophy and conversation meetings.
23 March 2003, Peace Rally, The Domain, Sydney and NSW Art Gallery
Eleven women left Canberra at 7am in a mini-bus, taught Lament to numerous Sydney women over mobile telephones and sang to 50,000 people at the Domain. When the group was introduced as 'the women who had filled Parliament House with lament' thousands stood and cheered.
22 March 2003, The Music Show, Radio National
Judith Clingan was interviewed by Andrew Ford.
21 March 2003, Children of the Gulf War exhibition opening, Canberra
Chorus sang at the opening of '˜The Children of the Gulf War', an exhibition by anti-nuclear photographer Takashi Morizumi in the A.C.T. Legislative Assembly.
18 March 2003, Australian Parliament House
150 women sang Lament in the Grand Foyer of Parliament House and gained national media coverage. Millions of Australians heard national media broadcasts of this action and invitations began to arrive for Lament to be sung on other occasions. Conversations began about the possibility of interested women continuing to meet.
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