ENSEMBLES 2026

Brisbane Girls Grammar School Chorus

Brisbane Girls Grammar School Chorus is a special touring ensemble formed for the 2026 Cumma Sum Laude International Youth Music Festival in Vienna. The choir brings together selected singers from the vibrant choral program of Brisbane Girls Grammar School. The school’s choral program includes approximately 300 students, aged 11 to 18, across seven ensembles. Central to the program’s philosophy is the development of musicianship alongside character. Students learn the value of teamwork, personal responsibility, and commitment to a shared artistic vision. The program encourages broad musical engagement, offering diverse performance opportunities and fostering the pursuit of exceptional standards. The Brisbane Girls Grammar School Chorus represents the spirit of this dynamic program — bringing together dedicated young musicians who are intrinsically motivated, artistically curious, and proud to share their music on the international stage.

Clare Finlayson

Conductor

Clare Finlayson is a conductor, music educator and vocalist whose joyful energy and collaborative rehearsal style foster both musical excellence and student wellbeing. She holds a double Bachelor’s degree in Music and Education and is currently Coordinator of Choirs at Brisbane Girls Grammar School. With over 15 years’ experience as both conductor and chorister, Clare has worked with singers of all ages across school and community settings as a director, guest conductor, workshop facilitator and adjudicator. She previously served as President of the ANCA QLD/NT Chapter and as Assistant Conductor of Resonance of Birralee, contributing to choral leadership and advocacy at both state and community levels. In partnership with Voices of Birralee, Clare was the Creative Director of The Vincent Project (2025), a commissioned cycle of new choral works by six Australian composers, each inspired by a painting of Vincent van Gogh. The project premiered to strong critical acclaim and will continue into its next phase with a regional Queensland tour. Clare has toured internationally throughout Europe, North America, Asia and New Zealand, including participation in the ANZAC Centenary Commemorative Services with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs in France and Belgium. Performance highlights include the Australian production of He’s Not the Messiah (He’s a Very Naughty Boy) with Eric Idle, the “You’re the Voice” massed choral concert at the Queensland Music Festival featuring John Farnham, the world premiere of Encounters of the Third Kind in Concert at the World Science Festival Brisbane, and ANZAC commemorative services in Fromelles, Pozières, Allonville and Polygon Wood.

Celebration Program

Additional Concerts Program