The choir has been operating for 95 years and has resumed weekly rehearsals after a year-long layoff due to COVID-19.

The choir is currently preparing its music repertoire for the Male Choirs' Festival at the Sydney Town Hall in November with the assistance of new conductor Philip Rees and new accompanist Elina Yasumoto.

Mr Rees has spent his entire working life involved in music education and performance and in 2010 he was awarded an OAM for services to music.

He was the musical director of the Central Coast Philharmonia, and he was also the chorus master for Central Coast Opera productions.

Mr Rees moved to the Central West in 2019 and teaches brass and piano at the Orange Regional Conservatorium. He is the conductor of the City of Orange Brass Band, and participates in the music program in schools.

New accompanist Elina Yasumoto is a critically acclaimed musician who has built her music career in wide-ranging specialisations including as associate artist, soloist, piano teacher, chamber musician, vocal repetiteur, academic and published musicologist.

Ms Yasumoto has performed around the world as a soloist in renowned concert halls and she has broadcasted frequently on Australian radio and television.

She has a particular interest in working with singers and trained as a vocal accompanist. She also teaches piano at the Orange Regional Conservatorium.

The choir is also looking for more men to join as it heads towards its centenary in 2026.

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