AVIVA was formed in September 2005 in response to a need for lesbians and their allies to have a safe and enjoyable place to socialize. The choir's first performance was early November that year following an invitation to participate in the 25th anniversary of the Comox Valley Women’s Centre.

AVIVA has performed on the stage at Tania’s Downtown in Nanaimo, in its home venue of St. Andrew's United Church, and at the Chan Centre at the University of British Columbia. This June, the choir will share the stage with the Vancouver Men’s Chorus as they come to the Island to celebrate in song the 25th anniversary of Little Sister’s Bookstore and their fight for literary freedom.

AVIVA is open to women of all ages and singing ability. No one is turned away.