PERFORMING SQUAD MEMBER ALEXANDER

Alexander is a Senior Singer of the Australian Boys Choral Institute. Please see www.australianboyschoir.com.au/whats-on/concerts for details of upcoming performances.

Alexander, when did you join the ABCI?
I joined ABCI as a Probationer in early 2020 when I was 7 and a half.

What do you enjoy most about coming to Choir?
I get to sing and improve my choral singing skills. It also helps with my music theory. And, I also get to socialise with my friends.

How is choir different from school?
The difference is the people who are passionate about the same thing, which is music, whereas at school, everyone is passionate about so many different things.

What's rewarding about singing in a choir?
We get the privileges to perform at different venues, performing to different audiences, and to learn new pieces.

What have been some favourite pieces you have performed with the ABCI?
I have enjoyed performing all pieces but in particular, 'Hymn to St. Cecilia' and 'Rejoice in The Lamb' by Benjamin Britten, and the 'Mass in A Major' by Bach that we performed in last year's Christmas concert in Melbourne Recital Centre. It was quite memorable.

Can you tell us a bit about your hobbies and activities outside singing?
I play tennis at local club and weekly competition on Saturdays. I play piano and violin. I am also part of school's Strings Quartet, Quintet, Ensemble and Chorale.

What do you hope to do with your singing after you move on from the Performing Squad?
I hope to be able to continue my singing journey in The Kelly Gang and perhaps, to be able to be given solo singing opportunities at school.

What is the most important thing you’ve learnt in the ABCI about being a singer?
To be self-disciplined, organised and committed.

Lastly, what advice do you have for boys hoping to make it to the rank of Senior Singer?
To get prepared for harder repertoire. Resilience when faced with more challenging skills is always important too. You can do it!