Choral Professional Development Day

The Australian Voices with St Matthew's Singers: Following the release of their latest CD, renowned national choir The Australian Voices is visiting regional Tasmania with their "Painted in Dirt" Tasmanian tour. Championing compositions by Australian musicians, including those of Artistic Director John Rotar, they will give you a taste of contemporary Australian choral music – including choir and audience favourite "Painted in Dirt", featuring a myriad of bush noises! The Australian Voices will be joined for this concert by New Norfolk choir St Matthew's Singers, conducted by Susan Reppion-Brooke. St Matthew's Anglican Church are celebrating its 200th Anniversary in 2025, and we are excited to share this concert as part of their anniversary celebrations. Join us for an absorbing evening of choral delights!

A comedic musical show about life, loss and living fully! What if the people you love kept dying? What if you found out you might be next? And what if a bear was afraid of hibernation? Fresh from a sold out off-Broadway debut, comedy darling Michelle Brasier (Thank God You're Here, Aunty Donna, Shaun Micallef's Mad As Hell) finally brings her award-winning show Average Bear to Festival of Voices, Hobart. A show that shines a light in the dark and turns grief to joy, Average Bear has sold out seasons across the world and been turned into a smash hit book, My Brothers Ashes Are In A Sandwich Bag. See this very special show, while you still can. A heartbreaking & hilarious hour of musical comedy by one of the best voices in comedy, accompanied by Tim Lancaster on Guitar, Average Bear is a generous and joyful call to arms. A rallying cry to live every day as if it was our last because it very well may be. If you found out you had less time than the average bear, how would you spend it?

Singing is for everyone! If you have never attended a choral concert – now is the time! This exciting and entertaining afternoon of choral music is presented by extraordinarily talented visiting young adult choristers sharing the stage with contemporary professional ensembles ….and special guests from Catalonia. Festival of Voices is proud to promote the next generation of Australian choristers. You can expect to hear a variety of entertaining songs – some with themes of unity and togetherness, some with textural variations and movement, some toe-tappers that you are sure to know, and something that may be new and exciting to your ears. Featured choirs will include: - Harambee A Cappella (Melbourne, VIC) - Hillcrest Christian College Choir (Gold Coast, QLD) - The Australian Voices - Veus – Cor Infantil Amics de la Unió (Catalonia) Combined voices of: - Canterbury Cantabile Choir (Logan, QLD) - Kenmore State High School Chorale (Brisbane, QLD) - Korowa Vocal Ensemble (Melbourne, VIC) - TYO Tasmanian Youth Chorale (Hobart, TAS) This family-friendly concert will be a treat for all ages. Join us for enjoyable afternoon of contrasting vocal music which will leave you with a thirst for more!

Gather your mates, bring the family, and get ready for a big, bold, and boisterous singalong in a classic Tassie pub setting! This year, Country Pub Chorus is returning with award-winning Australian country music singer-songwriter, Beccy Cole! Beccy is known for her engaging stage presence and genuine connection with audiences. Described by fans as a "complete package" and "the best entertainer" her live shows take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions—from roaring laughter to heartfelt moments—leaving everyone feeling uplifted and connected. Fellow artist Adam Harvey has even called her "the best entertainer in Australia, if not the world." Her performances blend humour, heartfelt storytelling, and top-tier musicianship, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. It doesn't matter if you sing in tune or just sing with enthusiasm—at Country Pub Chorus, it's all about the feel-good vibes! The afternoon promises to be fun, funny, and full of heart. Beccy's mix of music and storytelling makes for an unforgettable experience, and the best part is that it's a no-judgment singalong—no one cares how you sound, they're too busy having fun! Whether you're a seasoned singer or a first-timer, everyone is welcome to join in and create some great memories. It's the perfect way to experience a true Tassie winter in one of the state's most iconic regional pubs, surrounded by good people and great vibes.

Mongolian tradition meets modern world music in an Australian debut Experience the breathtaking sounds of HAYA Band as they make their Australian debut at Festival of Voices this July. Led by the extraordinary voice of Daiqing Tana, this award-winning ensemble blends traditional Mongolian music with contemporary influences, creating a mesmerising soundscape that transcends borders and generations. HAYA's music is deeply rooted in Mongolian traditions, featuring the morin khuur (horse-head fiddle), tanbur, khoomei (throat singing), shaman drums, and ancient chants. These time-honoured sounds are reimagined through a modern lens, resulting in a unique fusion that has captivated audiences worldwide. Their critically acclaimed album Silent Skies is Taiwan's best-selling soul/world music album, and they've received numerous accolades, including the Best World Music Performance at the China Music Awards and the Taiwan Golden Melody Award for Best Crossover Music. With a signature "ceremonial" quality, HAYA creates an atmosphere of deep reflection and wonder, transporting audiences through evocative melodies and hypnotic rhythms. Renowned for bridging cultures through music, HAYA has performed on prestigious stages worldwide. Their compositions evoke vast grasslands and nomadic heritage while exploring universal themes of love, longing, and belonging. Don't miss this rare opportunity to witness HAYA Band's spellbinding artistry live for the first time in Australia, only at Festival of Voices.

Holistic vocal health workshop As singers, we are always caring for and nurturing our voices to keep them healthy and in prime condition to share our passion and talents with the world. This session will dive into the world of vocal health with voice expert Joshua Clifford and offer practical tips and resources for voices of all types and ages – perfect for singers & conductors! From steaming and straw singing to caring for our voices as they age, these insights and tools are informed by research and are invaluable for conductors and singers alike! "It's a passion of mine to increase awareness of vocal health, dispel myths, and provide a holistic approach to the voice – I'm so looking forward to presenting and sharing this session!" – Joshua Clifford, January 2025

From its humble beginnings as a 'round-the-fire singalong in 2005, The Big Sing has grown into the Festival of Voices' flagship event. In 2025, as we celebrate 20 years of Tasmania's premier winter festival and Australia's most renowned singing celebration, we invite you to join us for this unforgettable milestone. Kick off the Festival on Friday, 27 June 2025, with an evening of community, music, and connection. Set against the vibrant atmosphere of Tasmania in winter, The Big Sing welcomes everyone to come together for our largest annual singalong. From seasoned performers to first-time singers, this is a night where all voices unite. This free, family-friendly event begins at 5.00 pm, inviting you to rug up, grab a bite from our food vendors, enjoy a drink, and prepare to join the chorus. With an exciting mix of songs and a line-up of incredible local and interstate artists leading the way, there's something for everyone to enjoy. No tickets or registrations are required—just bring your enthusiasm, your loved ones, and your voice. The Big Sing is more than just a performance; it's a joyful celebration of community spirit. Whether you're singing alongside thousands of voices, reconnecting with friends, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, you'll experience the transformative power of music, bringing us all together.

A vocal journey from solo voice to massed choir. Join long-time Festival friend Mark O'Leary OAM as he guides you on a musical journey not only through the 20 years of Festival of Voices, but also the power of vocal music as it grows from the single voice of Jenny M. Thomas to the visual and aural impact of many combined voices. This opening gala concert of the 20th Festival of Voices brings performers from previous Festivals together with new participants, intertwined with anecdotes and memory highlights. We're excited to welcome back Festival favourites Allison Farrow and Andrew Short, Cocktail Hour Quartet, Harambee A Cappella, The Australian Voices and Paul Jarman to share this journey with you. Audiences will also be treated to performances by the FoV Chamber Choir, conducted by the USA's Christopher Kiver, and the combined forces of several Hobart community choirs, accompanied by outstanding instrumentalists from Hobart Wind Symphony and the Hillcrest Christian College John Williams Wind Orchestra.

Delve into the wonderful world of songwriting with your mentor, nationally respected composer and musical storyteller Paul Jarman. In this intimate and creative workshop, you will be encouraged to create and share stories and songs with new friends. This workshop will include an open dialogue about how we write songs. Those who have not attended this workshop in previous years are encouraged to join Paul for an optional introductory session, where he will begin to look at the elements in the songwriters' toolbox, including the nuts and bolts of composing, melodic nuances, finding inspiration and mindset, and integrity in storytelling. In a collaborative and supportive environment, Paul and participants will work individually and together to craft music, drawing from personal experiences and stories. Whether or not you read music or have much experience, if you're interested in learning more about writing your own songs, you're encouraged to attend. Previous attendees have described the experience as uniquely special for what they've taken away from the two days and friends they made along the way. Participants are also welcome to bring along instruments to this workshop. The workshop schedule also includes a preliminary meet-and-greet session in the Singers' Lounge with Paul and your fellow songwriters. Workshop numbers are strictly capped at 18 participants, so be sure to register early to avoid disappointment!

YHA Hobart Central is the most centrally located traveller accommodation in Hobart, only one block from the city's waterfront. The YHA is an easy walk to the MONA museum ferry at Constitution Dock, Salamanca Place and a multitude of bars, restaurants and cafes. YHA Hobart Central has clean and comfortable private and shared rooms, a social/lounge room with television, a kitchenette with communal cooking facilities and fabulous, friendly staff ready to help you with loads of local tips and tour bookings. There are also loads of great bar and dining opportunities, whisky distilleries, local markets, nearby bush walks, scenic Botanic Gardens and the beautiful Derwent River on your doorstep.

Located in the heart of picturesque Hobart, Mövenpick Hotel Hobart is a place to savour life and create unforgettable moments. With many of the 221 elegant rooms and suites offering spectacular harbour and city views, the temptation to explore this historical city beckons. Don't miss the hotel's free daily 'Chocolate Hour', plus kids 12 years and under enjoy free ice cream during their stay! Discover why Lonely Planet has called Hobart one of the top 10 destinations to visit, with award-winning restaurants and bars, galleries and speciality shops just outside your door. Situated in Hobart's CBD and a short stroll to the waterfront and the historical Salamanca precinct. Discover Hobart's rich culture, history and award-winning cuisine all within easy walking distance, while world famous MONA is a 20 minute drive.

Quest Savoy - inner city boutique apartments located in the heart of Hobart's central business district. Indulge yourself at the totally luxurious Quest Savoy Hobart adjacent to Hobart's shopping mall and only minutes to the city's historic and vibrant waterfront. Quest Savoy offers a range of luxuriously appointed studio deluxe apartments and executive suites featuring European furnishings, mini bars, complimentary in room Wifi , individual climate controls, free in-house movies, irons and boards, hair dryers and much more. The studio deluxe apartments have queen or twin beds, superior kitchenettes, spacious bathrooms. Two apartments have disability access; wheelchair access, open-plan bathroom, walk in shower, grab bars, and bathroom wall rails. The executive suites have queen size beds, luxurious full kitchens and large corner spas. Unwind and indulge yourself at the end of your day in the Savoy Baths. Enjoy the heated salt pool, individual temperature spas, heat room and sauna, and massage and treatment facilities. The Savoy Baths are a separate business from the Quest Savoy and an entry fee applies. Parking is available two blocks away at the Market Place Car Park. Charges paid direct and are $27 for 8 to 24 hours.