Beenleigh Orchestra

“Enjoy sharing music” is our motto and mission statement. Our primary goal is to make every rehearsal and performance enjoyable for our musicians; then we share that enjoyment of music and friendship with our audiences. We rehearse every Tuesday evening, setting up from 7 pm for a 7:15 downbeat. We perform for community events in and around Beenleigh throughout the year.

Our orchestra enjoys being part of a thriving theatre community. We rehearse in the Green Room of Crete Street Theatre, which also has an excellent auditorium for concerts. The orchestra occasionally accompanies A-Chord, the energetic and enthusiastic BTG choir that shares our rehearsal space, as well as the Logan Gospel Choir that Jabin also conducts. Several of our experienced members apply their talents to accompany the theatre’s musical productions.

We welcome instrumentalists of many ages and skill levels who enjoy playing a variety of musical styles. If you have consistently practiced your instrument for three years, you will probably feel comfortable playing most of the music that we perform. Some of our experienced members provide valuable mentoring to help less experienced musicians with their technique, and to learn how to fit in well with an ensemble. Children as young as ten can enjoy being part of our group; younger kids tend to tire too soon to enjoy playing for two hours in the evening. Playing in an ensemble is enjoyable and satisfying, especially when both music and friendships flourish.

If you are a musician interested in joining, please email orchestra@beenleightheatregroup.com or call Jabin on 0417 510 160 before dropping by for a rehearsal. Bring your instrument to play along and meet other members before making a decision. To officially join Beenleigh Orchestra you need to be a financial member ($10/year) of Beenleigh Theatre Group. We also collect $2 each week to cover expenses for the orchestra itself.

The orchestra was originally formed at Eagleby Community Centre in the year 2000 by Maureen Taylor, a local strings and piano teacher. Later the orchestra moved to Beenleigh PCYC for several years.

Maureen retired in 2009, and David Chivers took over the group for all musical and administrative matters. David still facilitates and liaises on behalf of the orchestra with new members, the theatre committee, and anybody wanting to engage the orchestra for performances.

In 2011 we joined Beenleigh Theatre Group as a member ensemble. At various times we have been known as “Beenleigh PCYC Community Orchestra” and “Beenleigh Symphonia”.

Jabin Mills took over as chief conductor and musical director for the group in 2022 to spearhead our post-Covid revival. Jabin brings a wealth of experience in conducting and musical direction, as well as a passion to elevate the sound and capabilities of community ensembles.