Recruiting was by word of mouth and through community organisations with rehearsals beginning in September 2006. The original ensemble had 47 members. Welch canvassed other charities for funding and support to advertise the choir's first rehearsal. After six weeks of rehearsals, their premiere performance occurred in October 2016. Bridget McManus of "The Age", observed, "the timing might not have been perfect, the soloist was a little shaky, and a wild-haired man at the back had a tendency to echo the last word of every line, but the infectious enthusiasm of the group belting out 'Blame It on the Boogie' – in unison, with all the actions – was hard to ignore. At the front of the group, by the Flinders Street Station steps, stood a spirited conductor on whom all singers' eyes were fixed despite the peak-hour bustle." As at May 2007, the choir had about 50 members.