THE STAFFORD FAMILY

Elwynne Stafford is well placed to comment on the recurring themes of the Australian Boys Choir. Her family’s involvement has spanned over 50 years and all five Music Directors.

Elwynne and Jeff Stafford’s son, Peter, auditioned for the choir after they chanced upon an advertisement in the local paper over 50 years ago. While Peter and Neil, another of their four children, became choristers, both Elwynne and Jeff established an ongoing commitment that has lasted well beyond their sons’ time with the choir.

Elwynne says, “we have seen the growth and development in maturity of the choir and significant changes in repertoire”. However, she notes a recurring theme with each of the Music Directors. “There has been consistency in an expectation of the choir being up to the highest standard. Although they have all had different approaches they have all had the choir very much in their hearts.”

Another recurring theme is family. “Belonging to the choir is being part of a bigger family,” she explains. But it has also become part of their family. “Once you find that family, it means so much, you don’t lose that interest and involvement,” she reflects. “I still feel that The Australian Boys Choir is ‘our’ choir.”

“It has been one of the most valuable and rewarding experiences for our family… including the siblings who weren’t in the choir. The more involved you become, the greater the rewards. You certainly get back what you put in. And I still do. I still feel the welcome and connection of family after 50 years. It becomes a large part of your life, a part of your heart.”