THE Illawarra Choral Society is bringing its much-loved concert favourites to the northern suburbs this spring with A Taste of the Classics 2025 – a relaxed afternoon of beautiful choral music, right in the heart of Thirroul.

The concert will be held on Sunday 28 September 2025, from 2pm at the Thirroul Library and Community Centre. Under the direction of conductor Carlos Alvarado and accompanied on grand piano by Tania McGrath, the program promises a stirring mix of choir favourites from past years with most of the repertoire kept as a surprise for the day. One exception is the ever-popular Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah, already confirmed as part of the performance.

In keeping with the event’s welcoming, neighbourhood feel, tickets include wine and light refreshments, with soft drink also available. Audience members will have the chance to meet the singers and chat with Carlos after the performance.

Illawarra Choral Society President and Thirroul resident Diane Barnetson says the concert is designed to make choral music more accessible to the local community.

“We wanted something low-key and affordable, and to take it beyond the Wollongong CBD, starting with Thirroul Library,” Diane said.

“It’s a chance to enjoy the music in a friendly, intimate setting, and to meet the people who bring it to life.”

Founded in 1947 as the Illawarra Singers, the Illawarra Choral Society began with just 16 vocalists and soon became a driving force in the region’s choral scene. For generations, the choir has presented classic works, including its biennial performance of Handel’s Messiah, a tradition begun in 1954 and continuing this year with a performance at Wollongong Town Hall on 13th December. Committed to nurturing musicians and singers of all ages, the Society presents two major concerts each year.

The Thirroul Library and Community Centre is just one block from the train station with a level walk, and there is both an attached parking area and plenty of free, unlimited street parking nearby. The venue also offers easy access for people with mobility needs.

Tickets are available now through the Illawarra Choral Society website.

Event details:

• Sunday 28 September 2025
• 2:00 pm
• Thirroul Library and Community Centre, 352–358 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Thirroul
• Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/a-taste-of-the-classics-2025
• Wine and light refreshments included (soft drink available)

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