KELLY GANG SINGERS SAM & FRANK
MOTHER & SON: JENNI, REID & LEO
MOTHER / SON INTERVIEW: PARENT LAURA & SENIOR SINGER OLLIE
Photo by Pat Charles
Laura and her Senior Singer son Ollie 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/whats-on for more about the ABCI.
Ollie, when did you join the ABCI?
Gosh...It feels like I’ve been in the ABCI for as long as I can remember! I was only 8 ½ years old when I started in 2023, and now I’m 12.
What do you enjoy most about coming to Choir?
Before I joined the Choir, I was more into musical theatre. Singing in the Choir has help me develop a richer sound, which is how I discovered my passion for classical music. I love being able to get introduced to new styles and learn them. It helps me discover the history of the music world, and it has also helped me with my composing.
What have been some favourite pieces you have performed with the ABCI?
Oh, there’s so many! I’ll try not to get carried away, but a few highlights was It’s Bonfire Season by Alice Chance back in Junior Singers, Beware! by Mr. Mallis when I first joined the Performing Squad, The Estuary by Leonie Holmes an incredible piece that taught me how to play triplets, and Solfege Mambo which my friends and I always do a skit of every Summer School.
Can you tell us a bit about your hobbies and activities outside singing?
To be completely honest, pretty much my entire life is centered around music. I play the piano, compose with my friends in our group “Resonance Arts”, and even play music related video games such as Geometry Dash and My Singing Monsters. When I’m not focused on music, I can be seen coding or animating on Scratch, playing Among Us, or spending time with my family.
What are the older boys like outside rehearsals?
I haven’t spent a lot of time with the older boys, but I’m excited to get to know them more when we go on tour in a couple of weeks. When it comes to my Senior Singer friends, though, they can be very funny and entertaining, serious at certain times, and overall great people to be around.
Lastly, what advice do you have for boys hoping to make it to the rank of Senior Singer?
My biggest advice is to practice as much as possible! Getting into the Performing Squad means completing all your skills in tutorials, which you can only do through dedication and practice. It is also important to set a good example and be a strong role model, so Mr. D knows you are responsible enough for the Squad.
Laura, how did your family come to be part of the ABCI?
Back in 2022, we were watching Queen Elizabeth’s funeral when Ollie noticed the boy choristers of the Choir of Westminster Abbey. He wanted to know who they were and wondered if there were any choirs in Melbourne that did something similar. That research led us to the ABCI, and after auditioning, Ollie began as a Probationer. I told him he only had to do one term and could stop if he didn’t like it, a few rehearsals later I reminded him of that, and he said, “Oh no Mum, I LOVE it already!”
How have you found Choir to be different from school?
Choir has given Ollie an exceptional musical education and opportunities that simply aren’t available at his school. I also love the emphasis the ABCI places on respect, leadership and independence. Weekend Workshops and Summer School have helped him become more responsible and confident, while giving him a wonderful opportunity to spend time away from screens and be part of something bigger than himself.
Does your family have a musical background?
Yes, I was classically trained as a singer through high school and have always loved being part of choirs. As an adult, I worked in children’s theatre and have enjoyed performing in community musical theatre, and both my husband and I have taught performing arts in primary schools. I have never learned solfege though, much to Ollie’s disgust!
What have been the most beneficial aspects of pursuing an ABCI education in your view?
For me, it’s been watching Ollie grow not just as a musician, but as a person. The ABCI has taught him discipline and commitment, he has learned that being part of something special also means turning up, preparing, listening, contributing and doing your best, even when something is challenging. Alongside this, he has developed confidence and independence, built wonderful friendships and found a real sense of belonging.
What’s been the most memorable Institute concert you have experienced so far and why?
Last year’s Incantations concert in Bendigo stands out as an absolute highlight. Not only because of the outstanding performances by the Performing Squad and the Vocal Consort, but because it was the first time Ollie wore his reds and performed with the Squad. I was so incredibly proud watching him perform in the stunning Sacred Heart Cathedral, there may have been a few tears of pride...
What advice would you give to new families, or those looking to join the Choir?
Do it! It may seem like a big commitment, but the benefits are huge and the years go by so quickly. The friendships, opportunities, musical education and confidence the boys gain make it incredibly worthwhile. I’d also encourage families to get involved and volunteer where they can, the Choir relies so much on its wonderful volunteers, and being involved behind the scenes gives you an even greater appreciation of the incredible learning program and opportunities the boys are being given.