MOTHER & SON: GALIT & ELY
1 October 2024
MOTHER, FATHER & SON: CATHERINE, PAT & ARCHIE
2 October 2024MOTHER / SON INTERVIEW: PARENT SAMANTHA & SENIOR SINGER SEBASTIAN
Photo by Pat Charles
Sam and her Senior Singer son Sebastian are members of the Australian Boys Choir community. In this interview, they share some perspectives on their time so far with the Australian Boys Choral Institute and talk a little but about the Choir journey. Please see www.australianboyschoir.com.au/join-us to sign up for your son's audition today.
Seb, when did you join the ABCI?
I joined the ABCI at 7 years old. I was super eager to join because I saw that my brother was having a lot of fun singing in the Choir already.
What do you enjoy most about coming to Choir?
I really enjoy the lively atmosphere, the amazing teachers and the wonderful singers alongside me. They can really boost your morale if you are feeling down, and they don’t judge you if you make mistakes.
What have been some favourite pieces you have performed with the ABCI?
I really enjoyed singing the Gloria from Franck’s Mass in A, Fauré’s In Paradisum and We Three Kings from last year's Christmas concert, but all the songs are wonderful and make a great performance.
Can you tell us a bit about your hobbies and activities outside singing?
I enjoy drawing and playing the violin, but I also ice-skate, play soccer and I enjoy eating.
What are the older boys like outside rehearsals?
The older boys (or choir grandpas as we like to call them) are great to be around and are very kind. They are also very fun to play games with.
Lastly, what advice do you have for boys hoping to make it to the Performing Squad?
Always keep trying. Things will never happen unless you make them happen. Also, don’t give up, even if you keep getting knocked down just get up again. Lastly, be patient. Although the Performing Squad is the pinnacle of the ABCI, you still need proper training for at least 2 years to make it.
Sam, how did your family come to be part of the ABCI?
We have been part of the ABCI since 2019 when my older son Joshua joined the Probationers after the choir visited his school.
How have you found Choir to be different from school?
Choir is like one big eclectic family where there are people from all walks of life who all share a similar love for music. We all value the benefits that a strong foundation in music education brings to both the children and their families.
Does your family have a musical background?
I have grown up with music constantly in my life and play both piano and violin. I had always hoped to share this love of music with my children.
What have been the most beneficial aspects of pursuing an ABCI education in your view?
In this world of instant gratification, reinforcing the concept that some of the best rewards will take time, hard work and commitment. Also, the idea that the collective pursuit of excellence is as rewarding as the individual.
What’s been the most memorable Institute concert you have experienced so far and why?
I would have to say the concert where the institute performed Bach’s St Mark Passion. The music was breathtaking but also it was special for us as it was the one concert where both my sons sang as members of the performing squad together: Sebastian’s first as a Squad member and Joshua’s last as a Chorister.
What advice would you give to new families, or those looking to join the Choir?
Don’t hesitate. It’s the most wonderful experience. Apart from an extensive music education, the choir gently foster independence and help the boys develop social and emotional skills to be able to go on tour at a young age. Get involved , there are a myriad of opportunities to volunteer within the choir and these roles are not only extremely rewarding but also offer a bird’s eye view of the everyday running of this fabulous organisation.
Click below to watch an excerpt from our 2025 'French Classics' concert featuring an ensemble of organ, harp, cello and double bass. Our singers were joined by soloists Jacqueline Porter, Henry Choo and Kiran Rajasingam. Conducted by ABCI artistic director Nicholas Dinopoulos, with footage courtesy of Australian Digital Concert Hall.