2020 GIVING APPEAL

As a cellist, music educator, the newest member of the ABCI Board, and a former Choir parent, I am writing to ask if you would consider making a tax-deductible donation to the Australian Boys Choir at this critical time. My husband, a violinist with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, was stood down along with his colleagues some weeks ago, so I ask this with the greatest sensitivity, knowing that many people have also been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

We are so fortunate that our Artistic Director, Nick Dinopoulos, has quickly and confidently led a digital adaptation of the ABCI educational program in response to COVID-19. With our talented and enthusiastic team of music staff, Nick has crafted a method of remote delivery that has ensured the momentum of our students’ musical pathways while also maintaining a strong sense of community. In a recent article highlighting the Choir’s move online, Nick has reminded us that, "we have 80 years of culture and tradition to preserve. We have to come out of the other side of this - there is no other choice in my mind - and the technology is letting us do that".

During this necessary time of social isolation, the boys are receiving more valuable tailored tuition than even before. The Choir has also elected to reduce all fees for Term 2 by 50%. The Board has endorsed this fee reduction to ensure the program is as accessible as possible at this financially challenging time. It is vital that our current younger Tyro members of 2020 emerge as the Senior Singers and Choristers of the next generation.

When I observe young men acting without kindness or respect, I am reminded of how fortunate my family has been to be associated with the Australian Boys Choir. My son has been blessed with fine role models and a cohort of engaged young people during his formative years at the ABCI. A Chorister six years ago, he is now preparing for his VCE solo piano recital and was also appointed Music Captain of his school in Year 12. He said to me recently during his piano practice, "absolutely everything I know about crafting a phrase, I learnt from Choir."

I thank those families that have already generously supported the Australian Boys Choir at this challenging time. If you haven't yet but are in a position to do so, I urge you to make a donation. Please help this marvellous organisation weather the storm as safely as possible.

Kind regards,

Rachel Atkinson
Board Member

The Australian Boys Choir

excellence is generous

The Australian Boys Choral Institute/The Australian Boys Choir Fund is an endorsed Deductible Gift Recipient. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.