08/10/2024
Red Tree is so excited to share our latest project: All-abilities choir!
Check out the Crescendo Page to learn more!!
Have you heard about Crescendo Choir yet?
It's a welcoming and inclusive choir designed to connect people who are neurodivergent or have mental health conditions. It's more than a choir - it's a community! A safe space where you can be yourself and sing your heart out.
We rehearse every Thursday at St Peter's Hall!
Refreshments and chit-chat at 3, singing begins at 3:30
Still not quite sure? Here's a list of common questions and concerns.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS:
*Can I use my NDIS plan to pay the fees?
Yes!
*Do I need an NDIS plan to join?
No! Anyone can join, you can pay fees upfront
*Do I need to sign up?
You don't need to, and you are welcome to just come along. However, if you require NDIS invoicing it's a good idea to sign up so we can contact you and organise that. It's also a chance to let us know any special requirements you have or tell us a bit about yourself if you would like, and make sure you're signed up to receive any updates. You will NOT be locked into anything or charged any money. We do not ask for bank details. Sign up here:
https://forms.gle/i7zj6T5K5wvC84GM7
*The choir is in a church hall, do you sing church music?
No! We sing a variety of secular CONTEMPORARY music of all genres and maybe a sea shanty or folk song if we're in the mood. We are not affiliated with any religious group or organisation.
*Who runs it?
Red Tree Community Arts is a small local business which works with community service organisations in Ballarat. You can learn more about us here:
https://www.facebook.com/RedTreeCommunityArts
*Do I need a specific diagnosis to join
No! We understand that getting diagnoses can be a long and private journey and we don't ask for any of your personal private health information. You can decide if the choir is right for you.
*Can I bring along a support person?
Yes, you can bring along a support person for no extra charge
*What age range is this for?
Crescendo Choir is for adults, but we are also in the process of setting up a choir for children who are neurodivergent or have mental health conditions or learning disabilities. Stay tuned to hear more. Teenagers are welcome to try both the adults and children's choir, and can decide which choir is right for them on an individual basis.
*I can't commit to coming every week and/or I'm not sure which weeks I can come.
That's okay, you don't need to commit to a block of weeks. Our chior is flexible so people can come when they're able. We understand what is easy one week may be impossible the next. Only pay for the weeks you attend, no upfront term fees.
*I'd like to join but I'm financially struggling, I just can't afford it right now.
We don't want cost to be a barrier for anyone so please get in touch if this is the case, we can be flexible and work with you.
*Is it really loud?
We don't use electric instruments, but the hall does have good acoustics. You're welcome to use noise cancelling headphones or earplugs to make it more comfortable.
*I can't read music
We don't rely on sheet music.
*I'm a terrible singer OR I don't like to sing but I want to be part of the music.
That's okay! We value all participation and all voices are welcome to sing with us. If you would like, we can find a non-singing role for you.
*I'm not comfortable around large groups
Right now we're only a small and very welcoming group. We try to get to know everyone personally and make an effort to make sure everyone is welcomed and comfortable. We allow half an hour beforehand for refreshments and a chat.
*I don't want to do small talk and have coffee
That's okay, that part is optional. Just show up at 3:30 for the singing!
*I have my kids at that time, can I bring them?
Kids are welcome to either join in at no cost, or hang out in our cosy corner and do a quiet activity.
