MOTHER & SON: LAUREN & JOSH
MOTHER & SON: GERALDINE & JONAS
MOTHER / SON INTERVIEW: PARENT LIZ & SENIOR SINGER OWEN
Photo by Pat Charles
Liz and her Senior Singer son Owen 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 for more about joining the ABCI.
Owen, when did you join the ABCI?
I joined the ABCI in 2019, when I was 8 years old.
What do you enjoy most about coming to Choir?
There are many parts of Choir that are very enjoyable, but I would say that working together with my friends to create a great sound is something I look forward to every week.
What have been some favourite pieces you have performed with the ABCI?
So many of the songs we perform have become my favourites and it’s hard to narrow them down! If I had to choose, my two top favourites are the St John Passion and the Missa Brevis in D by Britten.
Can you tell us a bit about your hobbies and activities outside singing?
I spend my spare time trying new recipes, planting/gardening in my backyard, riding my bike and playing with my dog. I also have a part time job.
What are the older boys like outside rehearsals?
While we're serious during rehearsals to focus on the repertoire, when we have downtime or are at camps, we are fun to be around and enjoy spending time together. During tours and camps, it is great to spend time extra time with your friends!
Lastly, what advice do you have for boys hoping to make it to the rank of Senior Singer?
My advice is, even when some skills are tricky, it is important to stay confident in yourself and to continue putting effort into classes and tutorials.
Liz, how did your family come to be part of the ABCI?
We heard about the Choir from the parent of a friend of Owen’s at primary school.
How have you found Choir to be different from school?
Owen finds Choir to be a wonderfully supportive and fun place to be, he gets to enjoy music and lots of singing.
Does your family have a musical background?
We love watching and listening to music but most of our family don’t have musical training. We’re constantly in awe of how skilled the singers in the Choir are at such a young age.
What have been the most beneficial aspects of pursuing an ABCI education in your view?
The Choir is a well-run organisation that can be trusted. The benefits of being part of the Choir include the outstanding musical education, development of life skills and independence, and being part of a community that loves singing.
What’s been the most memorable Institute concert you have experienced so far and why?
The St John Passion from earlier this year. Our family was going through a hard time when this concert was on. I remember sitting in the church struck by the beauty of the opening movement; tears streaming down my face!
What advice would you give to new families, or those looking to join the Choir?
Don’t underestimate the benefits of being part of the Choir, from building musical skills to life skills and teamwork. It’ll bring the joy of music into your family’s life too. When Owen looks back on his childhood, I know he’ll remember the Choir as one of the very best things about it.