HONORARY LIFE MEMBER KEN CONNOR

Ken Connor said the Australian Boys Choir became like a second home for his son, Bill. And, after 15 years on the Choir’s Board, it became like a second home for Ken, too.

‘Bill joined in 2001 and the Choir became his “rock” in life, providing great memories for my wife Janice and me,’ Ken said. ‘My involvement opened my eyes and ears to another world . . . I have met some wonderful people and formed lifelong friendships.’

To recognise his long-standing contribution, the Choir recently made Ken an Honorary Life Member.

‘It means a great deal to me,’ he said, adding he knows two of the other three life members well. ‘Their contribution has been enormous. I don’t feel in their category so I feel very humble.’

Ken’s pleased with how the Choir has developed during the time he’s been involved, and puts its achievements down to a team effort.

‘It demonstrates the professionalism and maturity of the organisation. I have been particularly impressed by how the Choir has quickly adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to provide musical education.’

Ken said the ABCI provides a musical education that presents an opportunity for boys to strive for excellence.

‘It provides the best musical education available,’ he said, adding that volunteer efforts make a dynamic organisation. ‘I have seen many parents and grandparents put in enormous contributions. It’s part of the Choir’s rich community fabric.’

Ken said the ABCI offers the community a place where musically talented boys have a safe environment to pursue their skills with like-minded individuals where ‘it normalises their gift’.

The annual Christmas concert is, for him, just one of many musical highlights.

‘There have been memorable concerts in more intimate venues over the years that stand out,’ he said, adding that these demonstrate the choir’s versatility. ‘My preference is for more traditional choral music. This often transports me to another place and time.’

For the Australian Boys Choral Institute, the place and time are very much here and now: the challenge associated with COVID-19, easily the biggest in its history, must be overcome. Ken’s confident it will be.

‘The fact the organisation has endured and prospered is no small measure of its success. The staff’s talent and dedication, the fostering of the choir community, and a board of committed and professional members, will ensure the choir’s ongoing success.’

Author: Paul Mitchell