PERFORMING SQUAD MEMBER MATTY

Matty is a Senior Singer in the Australian Boys Choir Performing Squad. He’s excited to be performing in the second instalment of the 2023 ABCI Concert Season ‘Songs of the Sea’ on May 20 & 21 in both Ballarat and Melbourne. This performance will also feature outstanding ABCI Old Boy Raphael Wong, fresh from his debut last year at the Sydney Opera house as Phantom in Phantom of the Opera.

Matty, when did you join the ABCI?
I joined in 2018 when I was in Grade 2.

What do you enjoy most about coming to Choir?
I can focus and express myself through music and share stories and explore with friends at Choir. Tutoring sessions are really enjoyable and Summer Camp and Weekend Workshops are incredible – the experience of singing so much, you get so many skills and opportunities.

What is the most important thing you’ve learnt in the ABCI about being a singer?
To be confident and protect my voice.

What are you most looking forward to about 'Songs of the Sea’ in Ballarat and Melbourne?
To singing songs we have rehearsed as a group, and exploring the different venues we perform in. I look forward to the thrill of singing in different places.

What’s rewarding about singing choral music?
Singing in different parts to make a beautiful sound together with others.

How is choir different from school?
Choir is more professional and singing focused, whilst also learning social skills with friends.

Who are your favourite singers and why?
In Choir there are a lot of amazing singers – Liam in Squad is so thoughtful of others and is my mentor and a great role model. David in Kelly Gang has an amazing voice and is very kind.

What are your hobbies and activities outside singing?
Playing guitar and learning new music, athletics & sports, bike riding, rock climbing, spending time with friends.

What do you hope to do with your singing after you move on from the Performing Squad?
Learn how to use my changing voice with Kelly Gang or Cambiata, and I’d like to get into a band to use my singing & guitar skills. I also look forward to using the skills I’ve learnt in life and work.

What advice do you have for boys aiming to make it to the rank of Senior Singer?
Keep practicing and keep aspiring to be a better singer; always have confidence in yourself. At times Choir will be tough, but if you keep pushing through then the reward you get once you’ve reached your goal will be well worth all the effort.

Click below to watch members of the Australian Boys Choir in an excerpt from Australian composer Dulcie Holland's Sailing Time from the first concert of the ABCI's 2023 Concert Season.