OBV Studio Choir Program – FAQ

Why was the Studio Choir Program created?

OneBigVoice has grown to the point where it produces the recordings that are used by over 7000 children every school week. OBV versions are also increasingly used interstate and overseas. (The Scottish Glee Challenge of 5500 children used an OBV version as their feature song in 2019.) In the past, OBV had adults singing on their material but recognised the opportunity to give our own gifted kids that valuable experience while at the same time, making the recordings more authentic, relatable and more useful for teachers everywhere. In doing this, OBV aims to challenge and improve all Studio Choir Program singers because we believe this advances them, inspires others and helps build a culture of singing within our community.

Is the SCP open to everyone?

Currently entry to the SCP is only available to students of schools participating in One Big Voice. However existing members may continue in the SCP, regardless of what school they subsequently attend hence the majority of the choir are now in high school.

Why does the program run in Terms 3 and 4?

In its annual cycle, that is when OBV starts developing its repertoire for the following year. In addition, the SCP extends into in Term 1 and 2 of the following year when it offers small-group ensemble recording sessions and other activities. These are when smaller subsets of the choir gather to record. The Studio Choir is announced every year in early July. See the SELECTION page for key dates.

How much does it cost?

In 2022, OBV it is anticipated that the cost will be $300 per term plus a one-time cost of $30 headphones and $40 for a shirt for new members.

When are the sessions? How long are they?

In 2022 the first NORTH session will be on Wednesday 20 July from 4.15pm – 5.45pm, then fortnightly after that. The first SOUTH session is the week after. Sessions go for 90 minutes. In the weeks in between, students receive mixes from the previous week to listen to. They also receive the new parts to learn for the next session. Choir members are expected to do this preparation.

Where are the recording sessions held?

One session per term will be held at Crank Recording in Northbridge, the most prestigious studio in Perth. The other sessions are held at Bambara PS in the north and Success PS in the south. This is because SCP kids come from everywhere. (We currently have members from Alkimos to Mandurah.) We strive to make the travel demands as achievable as possible for families. Note that SOUTH choristers do not attend the NORTH sessions and vice versa. The fifth and final session each term at Crank is an all-choir session.

Who is at the sessions?

OBV’s music producer Brendan O’Brien is in charge of the program. The SCP positions itself as elite and invests in the very best instruction with vocal specialists such as WAAPA(Hons) graduate Keely O’Brien, respected performer, music specialist, Jenny Gaunt and WAAPA student Bethany O’Brien. WAAPA graduate Leah McFetridge also joined the team in 2022. OBV Creative Director Donna-Marwick O’Brien and other OBV team members such as Kiki McCormack and Jenni O’Byrne are also involved and bring vast, school-based experience to the program. All personnel hold current WWC cards. The program also calls on parents to participate proactively in a similar manner to that used with junior sporting teams. Parents are welcome at all activities.

What happens in the solo sessions?

The solo sessions are one of the most popular features of the program. You will be working one on one in the studio with a producer exploring what it is that makes you unique. It is relaxed and fun. A parent is expected to be present as well. Each student is guaranteed a minimum of one solo session, although commonly extra sessions are offered. Each student receives a produced mix of their solo sessions.

Does the Studio Choir ever perform live?

Yes! Although the emphasis is on recording, the Studio Choir appears at the massive OBV concert at RAC Arena concert (sadly suspended in 2022). Other live opportunities are be considered as they arise. In May 2021 for instance, members of the OBV20 SCP performed at the RAC Arena for the Perth Wildcats Indigenous Round game. They also appeared on TV as part of Telethon 2021 and will appear at the Wanneroo Festival and Drone Spectacular in Oct/Nov 2022. As an elite sub-choir representing OBV, it is expected that opportunities such as this will present from time to time.

Inquiries

Please contact OBV’s producer, Brendan O’Brien at brendan@onebigvoice.com.au if you require further information.