Our mission
At MSG, we are dedicated to inspiring and empowering adult hobby singers in a diverse and supportive community. United by the rich sounds of Soul, Blues, and Gospel music, we challenge the stereotype that community choirs must settle for mediocrity. Through a holistic approach to singing, we help our members develop vocal technique, musical skills, and performance confidence. With dynamic performance opportunities and collaborations with artists who share our passion for music rooted in African American heritage, we celebrate the transformative power and joy of singing together.
Our history
For over 20 years, MSGC has been one of Melbourne’s premier adult community choirs, uniting voices through the powerful and uplifting sounds of soul, blues, and gospel music.
Founded in 2001 by a group of passionate singers inspired by the Bendigo Gospel Festival and the Melbourne Acappella Festival, the choir was established to provide adults with ongoing opportunities to experience the energy, joy, and sense of connection that this music brings.
Based in Melbourne’s inner south, MSGC holds weekly rehearsals during school terms and performs at music festivals, community events, and concerts across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Through these performances we share the transformative power of gospel, soul and blues, with audiences far and wide. In our quest for authentic and innovative music experiences, we have collaborated extensively with African American artists, song writers and choir arrangers.
Some past collaborations include, Low Res Melbourne, Male Pop Choir, Sweet Monas (Ballarat), Kenny Smith (New York), Michale McElroy (New York), Dr Triniece Robinson-Martin (New York), Allison Crockett (New York), Isaac Cates (USA), and Eric Dozier (Nashville)
Our musical director
Dr. Darren Wicks is a distinguished voice educator, jazz pianist, and choral conductor with over 30 years of experience in the field of music education. Throughout his career, Darren has accumulated a vast wealth of knowledge, having worked in diverse roles including school music teacher, university lecturer, community music group leader, studio instructor, and conductor for both school and community choirs. His deep commitment to teacher education has also seen him regularly presenting at workshops and conferences.
Darren holds a Master of Music Degree and a PhD in Vocal Pedagogy, reflecting his dedication to advancing the field of voice education. His academic journey has been enriched by extensive studies in voice teaching across the United States, where he has had the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from African American artists.
As an author, Darren has contributed significantly to music education literature, with several publications to his name. His work continues to influence and inspire educators and students alike, making him a respected figure in the music education community.
Our performances
Each year, the choir proudly showcases its talent and music at a gala concert accompanied by its house band. We also perform at concerts, music festivals, benefits, CD launches, collaborations, and workshops.
Some venues include The Edge (Federation Square), Memo Music Hall (St Kilda), Alex Theatre (St Kilda), Spiegeltent Melbourne, Chapel Off Chapel (Prahran), Stones of the Yarra Valley, Federation Hall (Hobart), Town Halls and other community spaces.
