Carolling Volunteers

Carolling at The Open Door

Christmas Carolling

Every year Salvation Army chaplains arrange for small ensembles to visit Salvation Army homeless shelters, community projects, youth refuges, therapeutic communities and prisons to play Christmas carols.

Christmas can be a very difficult time for some of these people and often carolling connects with them and brings hope. It often is a catalyst to conversations about new possibilities and new beginnings

We are in desperate need of brass and wood wind players that can play in a small ensemble and have availability over the December period. It may be for an hour, a day, or a week (depending on your availability) and groups generally consist of four or five people each playing a separate part.

We are seeking volunteers only as we have no capacity to pay you for assisting.

What is required?

An open mind, sense of humor and some Christmas spirit are the main requirements of the role.

If you are a Salvo then Salvation Army uniform is preferable, casual or formal – whichever you are most comfortable in. If you are not a Salvo or do not have a Salvo uniform then black/navy pants or skirt with collared white shirt – please.

If you have your own musical instrument to play this will be helpful as we only have a limited number of instruments that we can provide.

We aim to have a minimum of four musicians at every event with each playing a separate part.

A current WWCC card is required for some (but not all) of the carolling events, those where children and families will be present. This would include the following events:

Bridgehaven
Upton Road Youth Refuge
& Gateways Accommodation

For prison carolling, volunteers will need to undergo a Corrections Victoria security check prior to playing carols – this usually takes around four weeks.

All volunteers must be registered prior to participation when full details of events will be confirmed with you.

What do we provide?

We will provide you with a wonderful opportunity to bring some Christmas cheer for people doing it tough. Hopefully its also a bit of a hoot to be part of a small music ensemble that is relaxed and joyful.

We will provide the music and, at most places, refreshments are provided. Music used is The Salvation Army “Carolers Favorites” books as shown. We can also pay for car parking when required.