Our History

1996-2000 - A group known as the S.A Gay and Lesbian Choir started around February 1996. They rehearsed in the Beans Bar, the Mars Bar and the Bowden-Brompton Community Centre, having several directors over the years the group dissolved around 2000.

2001 – The choir, as it's currently known, was formed in 2001. 'Red' came along from Canberra G&L Choir and began with a new group of singers and gave the group its unusual and idiosyncratic spelling of the word Choir; 'Qwire'.

2002 – Red was continuing director until late in the year, at which time Dawn took over as acting director. Performance venues included the Wheatsheaf Hotel, The Musuem and Carclew (candelight vigil). The highlight was the attendance of a group of about eleven at the Gay Olympics in Sydney.

2003/4 – Under the direction of Matthew, the rehearsal space moves from Darling House to St. George Hall, Goodwood. Highlight was a concert at the Mayfair Theatre.

2005/6 - Performances at the Folk Club and participation in the rally at Parliament House and Gay Pride March & candlelight vigil. James and Dawn where co-directors during this period.

​2007 - Angela took over direction of the Qwire. performance highlights were: Pyjama Party, Feast Fundraiser, Candlelight Vigil and participation in the Gay Pride March.​

2008​ - Matthew and Catriona lead the Qwire, with the big highlight of this year, a successful concert at Elder Hall. 

2009 - Performances at ANCA Sing Out, participation in the Gay Pride March, Candlelight Vigil. Our rehearsal space moved from St. George's to our current location at Clarence Park. 

2010 - Due to work commitments Catriona hands over to Justin. Performances at the Candlelight Vigil, Feast Picnic, Rainbow Carols at Semaphore and the participation in the Gay Pride March. 

2011 - Justin continues as director and Christian becomes accompanist. The "Q" logo was designed by Justin - the idea being two bass clefs in mirror image and the treble clef at the bottom to create the Q appearance. Our two major performances for the year were the mid-year concert at La Sing and the end of year concert for the Feast Festival. Other performances were the Carol Concert with the Mitcham City Brass Band, the B-friend end of year celebrations and singing at unveiling Maria Gandy Bi-Centennial Memorial in Thebarton.

2012 - This year brought some diverse performances for us. As part of IDAHO, the Qwire was asked to sing at Flinders University in conjunction with the gender equality group ALLY (queer space). We did some songs for the Elders' Big Day Out (COTA - Council of the Aging). Our two main concerts were the mid-year held at the Crown and Anchor and the Feast performance in the Grand Ballroom. We were also asked to perform at Picnic in the Park and the World AIDS Day service held in the city. A Christmas concert was held in conjunction with the Mitcham City Brass Band and the Retune Choir. The Retune Choir are comprised of people recovering from the effects of a stroke. Thanks to winning the Gladstone prize, we were able to invest in a sound system, expanding the areas in which we're able to perform. Accompanist duties were shared by Justin, Liam, Greg and Phil.

2013 - Justin stood down from directing and Matt tool up the baton. Many of our members went to Tasmania to be part of the Festival of Voices. We performed two movie themed shows in conjunction with the Mitcham City Brass Band. We appeared at the opening to the "Gay Times Are Here Again", an exhibition celebrating the 40th anniversary of the 1973 Adelaide Gay Pride Week. Our end of year concert was at Elder Hall as part of the Feast Festival.

2014 - Our mid-year concert, performed at the Trinity Church in Goodwood was a mix of old numbers and a preview of The Great American Songbook, our major concert for the Feast Festival. Planning for a CD recording was underway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be gay?

Not at all! But you do need to be accepting and supportive of all genders, ages and sexuality. It’s our wonderful differences that we recognise and celebrate.

Do I have to AUDITION?

No. Join in as best you can in the first rehearsal you attend. We can advise you the best section (bass, tenor, alto, soprano) for you if you wish.

Do I have to read music?

It helps, but it’s not essential. Others will help you if you are having trouble. We often use USB sticks with the various parts pre-recorded so that you can practise at home or in the car.

But I Can't Sing!

You might be able to sing better than you think! All that we seek from you is an enthusiasm for music and singing. Previous choral experience not needed. And we have plenty of jobs for non-singers!

Where AND WHEN do you rehearse?

Clarence Park, just south of Goodwood. Plenty of parking onsite, and Bus stop at the door. Tuesdays 7.30pm (sharp) - 9.30pm.

For specific address details please contact the Qwire for information.

How many performances do you do each year?

One or two major concerts (e.g. Feast), several community performances. We perform in various Adelaide venues and have travelled interstate. If you do not wish to perform in public, that’s quite OK – there’s no pressure.

How much does it cost?

Nothing for the first month. Then, if you think the Qwire is for you, you need to become financial, by paying $80 ($60 conc,) every 6 months. Instalments can be arranged if it’s easier to manage.