Reclaim The Arts for Christ
We're on a mission to become one of the greatest Orchestra's and Choir's in our Nation - for the Glory of God.
Why You'll Want to Join the Australian Christian Orchestra or Choir
Founder and CEO - Ryan Gilpin
This isn't just another ensemble. It's a movement. A creative renaissance rooted in Jesus. We're building something that is both beautiful and bold, a community of musicians and singers who pursue excellence as worship.We've already performed to over 2,500 people on our Gold Coast tour last May, consistently sold out concerts of up to 800 people, and in 2026 we are stepping into the Chatswood Concourse 1,000 seat Concert Hall for our biggest season yet.2026 is our Year of Excellence. A season shaped by intentional artistry, spiritual depth, rich community, and performances that inspire and transform. Across the year there will be deeply meaningful music, original repertoire, powerful sacred works, and opportunities to bring your gift into spaces where people encounter God through sound and beauty.This is a community where faith fuels creativity, craft grows through mentorship and care, and musicians at different stages of their journey serve together with humility and purpose. Artistic excellence is not a checkbox. It is our way of honouring God.We do not simply make concerts. We create experiences that matter, gatherings that resonate, and music that points people to Jesus.You can attend your first rehearsal to experience the culture and standard before committing to full membership.After that rehearsal, you will be invited to become a full member by paying the membership fee and take your place in the journey we are building together. If you are a professional musician, we will be in touch to discuss your membership, as we have an alternative engagement method for professionals.If you want your music to mean something, not just sound impressive, this may be your place.Come and make something beautiful with us.Ryan Gilpin, CEO & Director
More About Us
Our Vision, Mission & Values & Culture
Learn more about our story, vision, mission, and values.
Ecumenism at Christian Arts
Learn more about our approach to Ecumenism at Australian Christian Arts.
12 Things to Know Before Joining
Understand the assumptions people make before joining, to ensure they align with who and what we are at Australian Christian Arts.
About Our Adult Programs
Australian Christian Arts is a registered non-profit Christian arts organisation dedicated to ministry through the arts, providing guidelines for new members on our culture, expectations, and vision. Click here for Youth Programs.
Our Three Adult Programs
The Australian Christian Orchestra Est. 2022
Launched in 2022, The Australian Christian Orchestra unites Christian musicians across Sydney to perform sacred and classical repertoire with spiritual purpose. We offer a platform for musicians to hone their craft in a supportive, faith-centered environment.
The Australian Christian Choir Est. 2024
Launched in 2024, The Australian Christian Choir is a dynamic vocal ensemble of talented singers united by faith and passion for music. We create powerful musical experiences through choral and contemporary Christian music, fostering community and sharing messages of hope.
Australian Christian Productions Est. 2023
Australian Christian Productions is the logistical and operational backbone for all Orchestra and Choir events, handling planning, coordination, and execution from venue booking to marketing. Its mission is to facilitate powerful, high-quality Christian arts experiences by managing all behind-the-scenes intricacies.
For More About Our Heart For Community Click Here
Information & Fees
Membership Fees & Payment Options
Pay Annually
$99* per year for Orchestra & Productions, $49 for renewing members or for Choir*, between $100-$300 per year.
*Payment options include paying in instalments over four payments, along with discounted rates for concession card holders and students.
If you are a professional musician or vocalist, we will be in touch to discuss your membership, as we have an alternative engagement method for professionals.
Pay Per Concert
Flat $99 fee* per concert for Orchestra, Choir or Production and attend the rehearsals leading up to that concert.
*Payment options include paying in instalments over four payments, along with discounted rates for concession card holders and students.
When?
Rehearsals are always on Thursday evenings.
Core rehearsals are held on the first Thursday of each month, 7.15-9.15 PM, for all members.
The Choir has additional rehearsals, scheduled roughly every fortnight.
Additional Orchestra rehearsals may be scheduled when leading up to an event.
Where are you Based?
We're currently only in Sydney.
We currently rehearse at Scots Church, 44 Margaret St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia, but rehearsals can and sometimes do take place at other locations across the central areas of the Sydney CBD.
Wynyard station is right next door and street parking, and some paid parking is available nearby.
How Old Do You Have To Be?
Members must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
Australian Christian Arts Youth programs are on their way.
What Music Are We Working On At The Moment?
We are pleased to announce that we are in the final stages of confirming the Chatswood Concourse Concert Hall for our upcoming Easter concert on Saturday, 29 March. Securing this premier venue, known for its exceptional acoustics and professional setting, marks a significant step for our organization. This choice of venue underscores our growth and enhances our credibility as we pursue artistic excellence. We anticipate this sophisticated environment will provide an unforgettable experience for attendees, allowing our music to resonate with clarity and impact.
Our 3 Step Application Process
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1. Submit Your Application
Complete our interest form to join the Orchestra, Choir, or Production team. We'll review it and send you your audition form to complete if we need you to complete a video submission for audition purposes.
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2. Attend Your First Rehearsal
Experience a rehearsal before fully committing. This lets you see what our community is all about and meet the team.
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3. Become a Full Member
After your first rehearsal, pay your membership fee to become a full member, and complete your onboarding. You'll receive your full member digital pass and complete access to our online community.
A Note for Professionals
If you are a professional musician, we will be in touch to discuss your membership, as we have an alternative engagement method for professionals.
Member Expectations
Commitment to AChA's mission, vision, & values
Regular participation in community activities
Adherence to AChA constitution & policies
Minimum 70% attendance for membership
For More About Attendance Expectations Click Here
Must be at least 18 years of age
Ready to make a difference for Christ through arts
Skill Requirements
Orchestra Members
Musicians require Grade 7 or higher proficiency on their instrument, without exception. This ensures confident handling of complex arrangements.
Choir Members
Vocalists need consistent in-tune singing, harmonizing ability, and basic sheet music understanding. A good ear is essential; formal training isn't mandatory.
Production Members
Production members are welcome at any proficiency level. Key qualities are enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a collaborative spirit.
Our Musical Repertoire
Musical Diversity
Our foundation is classical and orchestral music, complemented by a broad spectrum of genres including contemporary worship, gospel, and cinematic scores. We embrace this diversity to connect with the widest possible audience, creating a space for everyone to experience the beauty of music.
Musical Challenge
We value technical excellence, offering many complex and challenging pieces to foster growth. However, we also include intentionally simple selections, allowing the message to shine. Both challenging and simple pieces are vital, together drawing hearts to God through varied musical experiences.
Rehearsals, Music, and Location
Our rehearsals are designed to foster both musical growth and community. Find out more about when and where we meet, and how to access your music.
When We Rehearse
Rehearsals are always on Thursday evenings.
- Core Rehearsals: First Thursday of each month, 7-9 PM, for all members.
- Choir Rehearsals: Additional rehearsals scheduled roughly every fortnight.
- Orchestra Rehearsals: Additional rehearsals may be scheduled leading up to an event.
What to Expect
Expect a welcoming atmosphere focused on:
- Devotion: Spiritual reflection and connection.
- Repertoire Practice: Dedicated time for musical development.
- Community: Opportunities to connect with fellow artists across different Christian denominations.
Music Access
Familiarizing yourself with the music beforehand is highly encouraged.
- Provided On-site: Sheet music available at each rehearsal.
- Digital Access: Scores available on our Heartbeat intranet for advance practice.
Location & Transport
Rehearsals take place at various Sydney CBD venues, always easily accessible by public transport.
Current Primary Location:
44 Margaret Street, Scots Church, Wynyard Station.Please note, rehearsals can also occur at other central Sydney CBD locations. Full details are available on Heartbeat upon joining.
2026 Schedule
Plan ahead with our detailed 2026 rehearsal schedule, outlining dates for our three major concerts: Easter Worship Night, Mid-Year Concert, and End-Of-Year Concert. We've included sessions for choir, orchestra, and combined practices to help you manage your commitments.
Easter Worship Night (March 2026)
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5 Feb: Orchestra & Choir Rehearsal (Separate, 6:45pm-9pm)
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19 Feb: Orchestra & Choir Rehearsal (Separate, 6:45pm-9pm) + Youth Info Night
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26 Feb: AGM Meeting In Person & Online (6:45pm-9pm)
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5 Mar: Orchestra Rehearsal & Choir Rehearsal - Piano Call (6:45pm-9pm)
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19 Mar: Combined Rehearsal (6:45pm-9:15pm)
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26 Mar: Tech Rehearsal (Call time: 6:30pm, 6:45pm-9:30pm)
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28 Mar: Easter Show (Sat) - Worship Night (Call time: Roughly 1:45pm for Band, 2:30pm for Orchestra & Choir)
Mid-Year Concert (August 2026)
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7 May: Reading Session (7:15pm-9:15pm - ALL Choir & Orchestra)
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21 May: Separate Rehearsals (Choir 7:15pm-9:15pm, Orchestra Sectional - Strings 7:15pm-9:15pm)
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4 Jun: Rehearsal (7:15pm-9:15pm - ALL Choir & Orchestra)
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18 Jun: Separate Rehearsals (Choir 7:15pm-9:15pm, Orchestra Sectional - Winds & Brass 7:15pm-9:15pm)
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2 Jul: Rehearsal (7:15pm-9:15pm - ALL Choir & Orchestra)
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16 Jul: Piano Call (7:15pm-9:15pm - Choir & Orchestra)
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23 Jul: General Rehearsal (7:15pm-9:15pm - Choir & Orchestra)
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30 Jul: Tech Run (Adult Run 7:30pm-9:45pm)
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1 Aug: Mid-Year Concert (Sat) - Adults Call Time: Roughly 4:30pm, Full Run: Roughly 5pm-6:45pm, Evening Show: 7:30pm-9:30pm
End-Of-Year Concert (November 2026)
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3 Sept: Reading Session (7:15pm-9:15pm - ALL Choir, Rhythm Section, Percussion & Orchestra)
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17 Sept: Separate Rehearsals (Choir 7:15pm-9:15pm, Orchestra Sectional - Strings 7:15pm-9:15pm)
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1 Oct: Rehearsal (7:15pm-9:15pm - ALL Choir, Rhythm Section, Percussion & Orchestra)
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15 Oct: Separate Rehearsals (Choir 7:15pm-9:15pm, Orchestra Sectional - Winds & Brass 7:15pm-9:15pm)
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29 Oct: Rehearsal (7:15pm-9:15pm - Choir & Orchestra)
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5 Nov: Rehearsal (7:15pm-9:15pm - ALL Choir, Rhythm Section, Percussion & Orchestra)
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12 Nov: General Rehearsal (7:15pm-9:15pm - Choir & Orchestra)
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19 Nov: Tech Run (Adult Run 7:30pm-9:45pm)
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21 Nov: EOY Concert (Sat) - Adults Call Time: Roughly 4:30pm, Full Run: Roughly 5pm-6:45pm, Evening Show: 7:30pm-9:30pm
Please note that additional and technical rehearsals may be scheduled closer to performance dates. Check our Heartbeat intranet regularly for the most up-to-date schedule and any changes.
Register Interest
Please fill out the form below to submit your interest form. We look forward to reviewing your submission and connecting with you.
What Happens After You Apply?
01
Fill Out Interest Form
Submit your application through the form above to express your interest in joining.
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Complete Audition (if asked to)
Some applicants may be invited to complete an audition to assess fit and skill level.
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Approval & Pay Deposit
Once approved, you'll pay a small deposit to secure your place.
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Attend First Rehearsal
Experience our culture and standard firsthand at your first rehearsal.
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Invited to Become Full Member
After your first rehearsal, you'll be invited to become a full member and join the journey.