Join us at St Peters Indooroopilly for a special Reformation Sunday celebration centred on J.S. Bach’s Cantata BWV 79, Gott der Herr ist Sonn und Schild. This collaborative project brings together the St Peters Church Choir with singers from Brisbane’s wider church music community to sing Bach’s monumental work in its original liturgical context.
Registered choristers will commit to attend 4 weekly evening rehearsals in the heritage-listed St Peters Lutheran College Chapel from Thursday 1st October. Rehearsals will commence at 7:30pm, and will include warm-ups and exercises tailored to assist singers to meet the technical demands of the cantata.
The cost to be part of this choir is $10 (Free for RSCM Members and Affiliate Choirs). A retiring offering will also be taken at the service, in support of the congregational music programme at St Peters.
The Festival of the Reformation commemorates the 1517 publication of Martin Luther’s propositions for debate within the church, which came to be known as the ‘95 Theses’. The central focus of these theses, God’s gift of grace to all humanity, transcends denominational boundaries, and the Come and Sing Bach Cantata Project offers an opportunity for singers of all backgrounds to celebrate faith, heritage, and shared musical expression.
Cantata BWV 79 was composed in Leipzig for the Reformation Festival of 1725. In it, Bach integrates a grand opening chorus with intimate solo movements and well-loved hymns including Nun danket alle Gott, set in traditional congregational chorale style.
Singers will prepare the work over 4 rehearsals rather than a single “scratch” event and will be provided with links to online rehearsal resources to help their at-home learning. The cantata will be sung in full within the 9am Reformation Sunday service on 25 October. Whether you are an experienced chorister looking for a fresh challenge or simply wish to sing Bach’s music in its liturgical context, this promises to be a rich and uplifting celebration.
Tricia Elgar is a highly respected choral director. A professional mezzo soprano, she has performed with many leading Brisbane ensembles and sang with Opera Queensland for 15 years. As well as nurturing hundreds of singers through private vocal tuition, Tricia spent almost 2 decades developing and directing a large, award-winning choral program at Kenmore State High School. She has conducted the St Peters Church Choir since 2006.
Gregory Mayer is a prize-winning organist, accompanist and composer. Now playing for services at St Peters Lutheran Church Indooroopilly, his past musical appointments have included St Stephen’s Cathedral Brisbane, St Patrick’s Cathedral Toowoomba, St Andrew’s Anglican Church Indooroopilly and Christ Church St Lucia. Gregory was the accompanist for the Australian Catholic University Choir for 25 years. His compositions are published by Fagus Music and Morton Music.
When:Saturday, 25 July | 10am – 12pm Where: Holy Trinity Hall | 141 Brookes Street, Fortitude Valley Cost: $10 (Free for RSCM Members)
After Graeme’s successful and fun-filled exploration of Australian Christmas music last year we have invited him back to share church music by Brisbane composers.
Join us for a morning of singing and discovery as we celebrate the rich contribution of Brisbane composers to sacred music.
If you direct singers in your church; if you are a person who just enjoys singing with others; or if you just want to share and celebrate the imagination of some of our local creatives, then this session is for you.
Please indicate your vocal part when registering.
About the Presenter: Dr Graeme Morton AM
Graeme Morton is widely recognized as one of Australia’s leading choral conductors. With a career spanning over four decades, he has directed some of the nation’s most prestigious ensembles, specializing in the commissioning and performance of contemporary Australian choral music. His artistic leadership has been fundamental in shaping the landscape of Australian choral arts.
Graeme’s formal musical education began at the University of Queensland, where he studied organ under Robert Boughen. Early in his career he was engaged in Methodist (later Uniting) church music contexts, before being appointed the first Sub-Organist of St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane. He later served nearly three decades as Director of Music at Christ Church, St Lucia, establishing a reputation for liturgical and concert excellence. In 2011 he returned to St John’s as Director of Music, reinforcing his lifelong commitment to church-based musical life.
His contributions to church music have been recognised by his election as a Fellow of the Royal School of Church Music (FRSCM) a distinction held by luminaries such as Vaughan Williams and Benjamin Britten.
His international profile includes time as a Visiting Professor at St Olaf College, Minnesota, and invitations to prepare choirs for elite conductors such as Stephen Layton with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. He has represented Australia at the International Society for Music Education in Florida, Greece and Finland as well as at the World Symposium on Choral Music in Sydney. His doctoral research compared the development of leading high school choirs across three countries in the northern hemisphere. He also completed a Churchill Fellowship, investigating choral practices in the U.S. and Canada.
This April, internationally respected UK conductor and educator Simon Toyne comes to Queensland for an immersive vocal intensive unlike any other.
Five days of high-level coaching, large ensemble rehearsal, small ensemble work, solo performance opportunities and two public concerts.
Designed for ambitious singers aged 16–28 who want to move beyond “good” and into confident, expressive artistry.
Two strands: Young Adults Strand up to 28 years Secondary Strand Year 11 and 12
Scholarships through the RSCM
The Royal School of Church Music Queensland (RSCM) is proud to be offering scholarships to this wonderful event. The link to our scholarship application form can be found below.
Join us for an evening of fun, friendly competition, and community spirit at the RSCM Queensland Trivia Night 2025. Get your team together, brush up on your general knowledge, and enjoy a night of trivia, prizes, food, and laughter – all in support of the Ralph Morton Memorial Fund.
📅 Event Details
Date: Friday, 17 October 2025
Time: Doors open 7:00pm | Trivia starts 7:30pm
Venue: St Peters P&F Centre, Indooroopilly (enter via Lohe Street)
Bar available serving beer, wine, and soft drinks (cash and card accepted)
After something more substantial to eat? Feel free to bring your own or order delivery (no BYO alcohol)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will there be prizes? Absolutely! We’ll have prizes for top teams, best table table theme (name, decoration and costume!) and maybe even a few surprises along the way.
Q: Do I need a full table to book? No – you can book as an individual and we’ll place you with others to make up a team.
Q: Is there a limit to team size? Yes – tables seat up to 8 people.
Q: Is this only for church musicians? I don’t know much about church music and don’t want to be in over my head! Absolutely not. Trivia will follow the usual “standard” trivia night categories, so no church music knowledge is necessary for the majority of the evening. Whilst there will be one church music category, all teams can select their “bonus” category at the start of the night where they earn double points – so you’re encouraged to set that for the category you’re likely to do best in to balance this out!
Q: Can I get the people in my table to book separately rather than paying for the whole table myself? Yes you can – simply get them to purchase individual tickets and list your table name. It may work out a little more expensive this way though.
Q: What should I bring? Just your sharpest wits, your table name and theme (prize awarded) and a readiness for some good fun! Some nibbles are included, and drinks are available to purchase at the bar. If you would like to eat something more substantial while you’re there, feel free to order your own delivery service. Note: our liquor compliance doesn’t allow BYO alcohol.
Q: How do I get there? There is plenty of parking-on site. Drive up Lohe Street (off Indooroopilly Road) and take the first left (as you’re passing the tennis courts). Looking on Google Maps, the P&F centre is exactly where the “Mayer Oval St Peters Lutheran College” pin is. It is less than a 20 minute walk from Indooroopilly train station.
Q: Who can attend? Everyone is welcome, including kids – this is a community event, not just for musicians or RSCM members.
Q: Where does the money go? Proceeds support the Ralph Morton Memorial Fund and the wider work of RSCM Queensland.
👉 Book Now
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out! Secure your spot today: Book via TryBooking
Held in collaboration with the Australian National Choral Association, Queensland Chapter
Join us for a unique and enriching evening of sacred choral music with our esteemed international guest, Chris Kiver! As part of a massed choir, we will explore exciting sacred music repertoire while developing our singing techniques under his expert guidance. Chris will share insights into the music and help us deepen our understanding and performance. This is an opportunity you won’t want to miss – come sing, learn and be inspired!
As part of this exciting collaboration with ANCA, RSCM members qualify for the heavily-discounted price of $33 (non-member price: $60). QLD Members – keep an eye on your inbox for your promo code!
In addition to Sacred Songs, other events Chris will be leading during his time in Brisbane include:
Community Choir Workshop: Saturday 12 July, 9.30am – 5.30pm
Held at Mt Alvernia College (82 Cremorne Road, Kedron), you will hear from Chris in his Keynote address, as well as sing in a massed choir
Conductor PD with Podium Time: Sunday 13 July, 12-4.30pm
Held at Mt Alvernia College (82 Cremorne Road, Kedron), where conductors will get some podium time with Chris.
If you are interested in making a weekend of it, the RSCM Member’s Discount applies to the 3 Day Super Pass as well, allowing you to save $110 on the standard price! Again, watch our membership emails for details.
Dr Kiver is a sought-after clinician, frequently guest-conducting and adjudicating in China, Australia, New Zealand, and across the USA for ACDA and NAfME. His expertise includes conducting and vocal pedagogy, changing voices, music ministry, programming, recruitment, score study, rehearsal methodology and choral advocacy.
Currently a Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Pennsylvania State University, Dr Kiver is a double Grammy Award winner and a recipient of the World Choral Symposium Foundation Scholarship and the PSU President’s Award.
A graduate of the Universities of London, Michigan, and Florida State University, Dr Kiver studied with eminent conductors, including Blackstone, Eichenberger, Thomas, and Bernius. Before moving to the US, Dr Kiver worked in Brisbane, where those who had the pleasure of singing with him will be eager for a repeat of his dynamic, educative and engaging approach.
Are you a musician considering a career in music performance or education? Have you ever thought about the opportunities available in church music? Join this free panel discussion on Monday, 19 May 2025 from 7pm AEST to learn more!
The Royal School of Church Music invites you to Being a Church Musician, an engaging online panel discussion featuring professional musicians in composition, conducting, and choral singing. Our panellists will share their experiences, insights, and advice on building a fulfilling career in church music—whether as a performer, director, or educator.
Many musicians don’t realise that church music offers a wealth of professional opportunities. From leading choirs and composing sacred works to conducting ensembles and working in music education, the church music world is a dynamic and rewarding field. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or an emerging professional, this event will provide valuable guidance on how to forge a career in this space.
RSCM (Royal School of Church Music) has a long tradition of supporting and equipping musicians through training, networking, and resources. Being a Church Musician will highlight the pathways available and how RSCM can help musicians of all backgrounds develop their skills and find meaningful opportunities.
📅 Date & Time: Monday 19 May, 7:00 PM (AEST) 💻 Location: Online event
This is a fantastic opportunity to hear from industry professionals, ask questions, and explore a career in church music.
About our Panellists
Sam Mitchell
Sam Mitchell is an Australian pianist and countertenor based in Oxford, celebrated for his versatility across classical and contemporary repertoire. His performances have taken him to stages across Europe, Australia, the USA, Asia, and Africa, with notable appearances on BBC Radio 3, Australia’s ABC Classic FM, and New York’s WNYC.
A founding member of the contemporary music collective Nonsemble, Sam has performed at TEDx and been featured twice on the influential I Care if You Listen mixtape. Nonsemble’s 2015 EP, Go Seigen vs. Fujisawa Kuranosuke, was hailed as “a monumental contemporary classic” (Cut Common Magazine). As a pianist, his standout performances include John Adams’ Phrygian Gates at Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) and opening the 2019 Extended Play Festival at Sydney’s City Recital Hall.
As a countertenor, Sam has performed with leading ensembles such as Tenebrae, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, The Oxford Bach Soloists, Ex Cathedra, The Norwegian Soloists’ Choir, The Song Company, and the Mogens Dahl Kammerkor. His solo highlights include the role of Hamor in Handel’s Jephtha alongside James Gilchrist, as well as featured performances in Handel’s Messiah with the Hanover Band, Bach’s St. Matthew Passion with Eboracum Baroque, and Haydn’s Nelson Mass with Instruments of Time and Truth. For six years, he was a lay clerk in the choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford.
Beyond performance, Sam is a highly sought-after music educator. He teaches piano at two of the UK’s most prestigious schools—St Helen and St Katharine, where he was Acting Head of Piano, and Radley College. He also maintains a busy schedule as an accompanist and répétiteur, working with leading soloists and ensembles, and serves as an official accompanist for Oxford University. Sam holds a Bachelor of Music with First-Class Honours and an MPhil in Chamber Music and Accompaniment from the University of Queensland. His thesis on Benjamin Britten earned a Dean’s Award for its significant contribution to research.
Dominic Fitzgerald
Dominic enjoys a busy musical life, splitting his time between teaching, conducting, singing and playing the cello. As Assistant Head of Department – The Arts at Brisbane Boys’ College and Casual Academic at the University of Queensland’s School of Music, Dominic works with students of all stages in their music education journey, from Primary to Tertiary. Cello Performance was the focus of his Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees, at the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University and the Sydney Conservatorium, University of Sydney, respectively.
Since 2015, Dominic has developed a keen interest in choral music and classical singing generally – and worked as a Lay Clerk at St. John’s Anglican Cathedral in Brisbane from 2015 until May of 2023 when he accepted the position of Director of Music for Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Fortitude Valley. He conducts and sings in choirs in a variety of contexts. Dominic is a great enthusiast for the canon of Western Art Music, as well as a vast array of contemporary and ancient music.
Alex Bartetzko
Alex is currently pursuing a Master of Music Therapy at the University of Melbourne, following the completion of a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) / Bachelor of Music (Piano Performance) with First Class Honours at The University of Queensland. Alongside her postgraduate studies, Alex works as a music therapy assistant at Rhythm Music Therapy, providing in-home and clinic-based therapeutic support across Brisbane.
A passionate pianist from the age of five, Alex is grateful for the teachers and mentors who have supported her musical journey.
After successfully auditioning for the Young Conservatorium at age 10, she studied piano for six years under Oleg Stepanov. This led to successful auditions for both the Queensland Conservatorium and The University of Queensland. The dual program at UQ allowed her to study music and psychology concurrently in preparation for her Masters, as well as the opportunity to study piano performance under Dr Anna Grinberg.
Alex has participated in masterclasses with renowned pianists including Max Olding, Natasha Vlassenko, Alex Raineri, and Ayesha Gough, and has the unique opportunity to study organ with Andrej Kouznetsov. During her undergraduate studies, Alex also undertook an exchange semester in Manchester UK, where she engaged in various cultural activities, such as singing with the choir at Manchester Cathedral and organising a sign language choir.
Outside of her music therapy work, Alex is an avid choral singer, tutor and conductor. Since June 2019, Alex has sung as a Lay Clerk at St John’s Cathedral in Brisbane, where she was also selected as a Conducting Intern under Dr Graeme Morton. Alex is regularly involved in projects with the Brisbane Chamber Choir and has participated annually in the National Youth Choir of Australia since 2022, working with conductors Dr Elizabeth Scott, Warren Trevelyan-Jones, Noel Ancell, and is looking forward to woking with Carl Crossin in July 2025.
Join RSCM for an afternoon of workshops with the opportunity to put what you’ve learned into practice at a Choral Service at the fabulous St James Anglican Church, Toowoomba.
In response to the feedback from these sessions in 2021, we are continuing our Vocal Technique sessions in 2022! This session will focus on finding your voice through colour, registration and range, and will be taken by Adele Nisbet, former head of Vocal Studies and Vocal Pedagogy at the Queensland Conservatorium.
Whilst the session is designed to build on the sessions held last year, new attendees are still more than welcome, as we will kick off with a summary from those workshops.
Due to the popularity of these sessions, registration is essential via the below button.
The workshop will take place on Saturday, 6 November October at the Hall at Nazareth Lutheran Church, Woolloongabba from 1.30pm – 4.30pm, with afternoon tea provided. Cost is just $10.
So what will the workshop cover? Learn the fundamentals of good singing and good communication. Renew your enthusiasm for signing – even during COVID times. Collect tips on how to continue to teach yourself after this session.
RSCM Queensland continues to present its Festival of Great Hymns in 2021, but because of the Covid situation, the Festival takes on a different format. Instead of having a large central event, this year RSCM Qld is joining with local congregations to present the Festival.
On Sunday 24th October at 2.30pm, a “Festival of Great Contemporary Hymns” will be held jointly with the Pilgrim People Brisbane congregation at Merthyr Road Uniting Church, 52 Merthyr Road, New Farm, Brisbane.
The Festival will feature hymns with words by contemporary hymn writers including John Bell, Robin Mann, Shirley Murray, Brian Wren, Carolyn Gillette, Fred Kaan, Fred Pratt-Green, Bernadette Farrell, & Timothy Dudley-Smith, and composers including Colin Gibson, Robert Boughen, Colin Brumby, Michael Baughen, Eric Gross and Ernest Sands. Refreshments will be served following the Festival.
As in the past, RSCM members and friends are invited to join the choir (this time, The Pilgrim Singers, conducted by Adele Nisbet and accompanied by organist Dr Steven Nisbet). A choir rehearsal will be held in the church at 1.30pm on the day. Please contact Adele if you are interested in joining the choir. ( or 0407-397-091)
RSCM members and friends are also invited to attend the event. Please register for Covid & catering purposes by 5pm Friday 22 October: email – or phone: 0432-591-652. For other enquiries, phone 0407-037-091.
