Café of the Gate of Salvation” Choir
"The music sends shivers up your spine and shoots straight for the heart" (Claire McKenzie, Brisbane Courier Mail).
This 30-voice, Sydney-based a cappella choir is known for its joy, energy ….and mighty, mighty sound!
Inspired by the African-American sacred vocal tradition, the choir (of all faiths) was founded in 1986. Led by Artistic Director Tony Backhouse, and Assistant Conductor, Zoe Vrachnas, they share their voices to foster inclusiveness, compassion, joy and respect.
Diverse performances include WOMADelaide, Melbourne International Festival, Brisbane Biennale, Festival of Voices (Hobart), and Nelson Mandela's 1990 Australian visit. The choir has sung to acclaim in Harlem, Birmingham, New Orleans, around Australia and New Zealand and performed with rock-band Powderfinger at the ARIA awards.
Performances for good causes form at least a third of their gigs, raising awareness and fundraising for refugees, World AIDS Day, Amnesty International, Walk Against Want, The Hunger Project, climate change, public advocacy, reconciliation, The Wayside Chapel and the Sydney Alliance.
COTGOS has released five CDs. The first (1991) won Best Album, Best Song and Best Soloist in the American-based CARAs. Another was nominated for an ARIA award.
The Café of the Gate of Salvation, is Sydney’s premier a cappella gospel choir.