MOTHER & SON: VANESSA & TEDDY
23 September 2025
MOTHER & SON: SUBA & JEEVANTHA
2 October 2025
MOTHER / SON INTERVIEW: PARENT DUSHANI & JUNIOR SINGER KELLEN
Photo by Pat Charles
Dushani and her Junior Singer son Kellen 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.
Kellen, when did you join the ABCI?
I was just seven years old when I first joined the ABC, and now — almost three years later — I’m nearly 10.
What do you enjoy most about coming to Choir?
One of the things I love most about choir is getting to learn new songs every week. The weekend workshops and camps are always exciting too.
What have been some favourite pieces you have performed with the ABCI?
Some of my favourite pieces I’ve performed are Out There, Crossing the Bar, Tunggare, and Down by the River. They’re all so different, but each one makes me feel like I’m part of something special.
Can you tell us a bit about your hobbies and activities outside singing?
Outside of ABCI, I keep busy with music and activities at my school where I sing in the senior choir and also help with the school magazine. When I’m not singing or writing, I can usually be found in the pool or on the field playing cricket or tennis.
What are the older boys like outside rehearsals?
One of the things that makes ABC special is the older boys — they’re friendly, hardworking, and a great team to be around. They can be serious at times (I guess that’s what makes the music sound so good), but they’re also a lot of fun.
Lastly, what advice do you have for boys hoping to make it to the rank of Senior Singer?
I think consistency really matters. Do your homework every day, listen to your tutor, and before you know it — you’ll be flying through.
Dushani, how did your family come to be part of the ABCI?
We got an audition invitation when Kellen was in Grade 1 however, as he was still 6 years of age his name was kept on file for the following year's auditions in mid-2023.
How have you found Choir to be different from school?
For us, Choir feels very different from school because it combines high-level musical training with discipline and traditions. We also value the emphasis on wearing the uniform properly and the discipline around tutorials, exercises and regular practice, which helps them become consistent and take ownership of their work. All within a supportive environment for both boys and parents.
Does your family have a musical background?
We both love music and enjoy attending concerts, but we don’t have a musical background ourselves. However, some of our extended family are involved in music and singing.
What have been the most beneficial aspects of persuing an ABCI education in your view?
We feel the Choir is not just about singing. While that is a big part of it and building those skills is the focus, there is another side we see, which is teaching our son to be more organised, structured and independent from a very young age. For us, that is the real bonus.
What’s been the most memorable Institute concert you have experienced so far and why?
For us, it was the Incantations concert at St Patrick's Cathedral earlier this year. It was the first time we had the chance to see the choir singing in the Cathedral, which was very special for us as a Catholic family. All four grandparents happened to be visiting from overseas at the time, so they were able to come along too. Seeing their grandchild perform made the occasion even more memorable.
What advice would you give to new families, or those looking to join the Choir?
The Choir is a great way for our boys to grow in skills and their character. It is a commitment, but the rewards are huge. The regular rehearsals, performances and tours, becomes a big part of their life and they build new friendships outside of school. The boys gain discipline, confidence and of course skills in music. Parents also get involved and become part of the community, so it’s not just about the boys, it’s about the whole family.
Watch an excerpt from Ralph Vaughan Williams' Mystical Songs performed by the Australian Boys Choir, The Vocal Consort and guest artists Rebecca Shirley (violin), Lucy Warren (violin), Merewyn Bramble (viola), Campbell Banks (cello) & Calvin Bowman (piano) at St. John's Church Camberwell in August 2024 below.