Pop-up Program

For those about to rock … we salute you! It's Tasmania meets Thunderstruck in this weekend intensive workshop where singers will learn and perform an iconic AC/DC medley, transforming participants into a powerhouse rock chorus! Join the dynamic Darina Chakarova, whose unstoppable energy will have you letting loose and singing your heart out with these high-voltage rock anthems. Think bold voices, electric sounds, buckets of attitude and a room buzzing with of full-throttle energy. Across two electrifying days, you'll dive headfirst into the anthemic sound of one of Australia's greatest bands. Together, you'll explore what it takes to capture the spirit of AC/DC with confidence, blend and attitude – all while having an absolute blast. Whether you're a shower singer or a seasoned performer, you'll leave this workshop belting, buzzing and grinning from ear to ear. No experience needed – just enthusiasm and a love of legendary rock! With thanks to Burwood Council (VIC) for rocking out with us and allowing the use of their commissioned AC/DC Medley for this workshop. Festival of Voices is committed to delivering an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally responsible event, embedding sustainability across our operations - from waste reduction and ethical sourcing to energy-efficient practices and low-impact marketing.

Delve into the art of songwriting with your mentor, nationally respected composer and musical storyteller Paul Jarman. The workshop will include an open and practical conversation about how songs come to life, covering melody, inspiration, mindset, and storytelling with integrity. Those new to this workshop are encouraged to join an optional introductory session, where Paul will introduce key elements in the songwriter's toolbox, including compositional structure, melodic nuances, and approaches to creative thinking. With a refreshed format in 2026, everyone who has an idea to share will be the catalyst for the creative journey. Paul will work with participants in a collaborative and supportive environment, crafting music that draws from personal experiences and stories. All are welcome, whether you're a seasoned musician or have never written a song before. Previous attendees have described the experience as uniquely special, noting the lasting skills gained and the friendships formed. A preliminary meet-and-greet session offers a relaxed opportunity to connect with Paul and your fellow songwriters before the workshop begins. Participants are welcome to bring instruments with them. Places are strictly limited to 20 participants, so book early to avoid disappointment! Festival of Voices is committed to delivering an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally responsible event, embedding sustainability across our operations — from waste reduction and ethical sourcing to energy-efficient practices and low-impact marketing.

Get ready to sing, learn and be inspired!  Join celebrated composer, conductor and musical storyteller Paul Jarman for a 90-minute workshop that celebrates the joy and power of young voices.  Aimed at singers aged approximately 10 to13, this lively and uplifting session will explore rhythm, harmony and the thrill of singing as a united, vibrant group.  Participants will experience the excitement of blending their voices and making music together in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.  Paul is an internationally acclaimed musician known for his infectious energy, his passion for inspiring young singers and his unique ability to bring out the best in every performer.  His workshops are full of laughter, learning and moments of musical magic that stay with participants long afterwards.  Whether you're coming as part of a school group or joining in on your own, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn from one of Australia's most inspiring musicians in a fun and supportive setting.  Participation is $10 per singer, with a maximum fee of $150 for school groups up to 30 students.  For enquiries and to book your place, please contact kerry@festivalofvoices.com  Festival of Voices is committed to delivering an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally responsible event, embedding sustainability across our operations — from waste reduction and ethical sourcing to energy-efficient practices and low-impact marketing.

Handel's Dixit Dominus is widely regarded as one of the most electrifying choral works of the Baroque era. It is a dazzling explosion of youthful energy, virtuosic writing, and fiery expression. Composed in 1707 during his formative years in Italy when Handel was just twenty-two, the piece captures the exuberance of a composer eager to prove his mastery of the Italian style. From its thunderous opening cascading vocal lines echoing the majesty of the psalm's text "The Lord said unto my Lord", to its final, triumphant "Gloria Patri" the work brims with intensity, drama, and brilliance. The result is not a polite exercise in church music, but a vivid spiritual spectacle that feels alive, urgent, and gloriously theatrical. Returning to Festival of Voices, acclaimed conductor Elizabeth Scott leads this choral workshop, guiding singers through Handel's virtuosic sound world with her trademark precision and passion. For choirs today, Dixit Dominus remains a thrilling experience and an early glimpse of Handel's genius at full burn. It is both a declaration of artistic intent and a testament to youthful audacity, where sacred text meets operatic passion! For enquiries and further information, please contact rachel@festivalofvoices.com.au Festival of Voices is committed to delivering an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally responsible event, embedding sustainability across our operations - from waste reduction and ethical sourcing to energy-efficient practices and low-impact marketing.

Join the vibrant celebration of vocal harmony with an inspiring a cappella workshop led by the dynamic Melissa Kenny, conductor of the award winning Soulfood a Cappella. This immersive experience invites singers of all backgrounds to explore the boundless potential of the human voice without the aid of instruments. With her trademark warmth and enthusiasm, Melissa Kenny creates a space that is both fun and deeply musical, encouraging participants to experiment, connect, and find their own unique sound within the group. Whether you're a seasoned chorister or new to vocal ensemble singing, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the colour, rhythm, and joy of a cappella music, and to experience the thrill of voices uniting in perfect harmony. To celebrate the outcome of the Sing it A Cappella! Workshop, participants will perform at the A Cappella Spectacular on Friday 10 July at Hobart's Federation Concert Hall. Get ready for an exciting mix of upbeat, fun, and energetic tunes you're bound to know and love! Melissa's repertoire features feel-good pop hits from the USA, Australia, and around the world, guaranteed to have you smiling, singing, and tapping along. Festival of Voices is committed to delivering an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally responsible event, embedding sustainability across our operations — from waste reduction and ethical sourcing to energy-efficient practices and low-impact marketing.

Each evening, the Lounge features captivating performances from talented artists. The stage then opens up as an open mic haven, inviting all performers to sign up on the blackboard and share their material. This space celebrates courage, connection, and community, dissolving the lines between professional and amateur. Past years saw acclaimed groups like The Velvetones and The Australian Voices share the stage with first-time performers, embodying the spirit where music unites. For 2026, we introduce the Choir Lounge, a sister space in the Founders Room (on selected evenings). This intimate venue will showcase the artistry of ensemble singing, from choral classics to bold contemporary works. It's a place to slow down, listen deeply, and feel the powerful connection through harmony and blend. Both the Singers' Lounge and Choir Lounge are central to the Festival's identity. We invite you to immerse yourself in a community that celebrates music and belonging, and leave with unforgettable memories. Festival of Voices is also committed to an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally responsible event, embedding sustainability across our operations.

Join us for The Big Sing, the flagship community event of Tasmania's premier winter singing festival, the Festival of Voices! Now celebrating its 21st year, this iconic, family-friendly singalong brings thousands of voices together for an evening of music, joy, and connection. Since its small beginnings in 2005, The Big Sing has grown into one of Australia's most celebrated singing events. It's a unique opportunity to experience the transformative power of community singing and the creativity of group participation. This event is free and everyone is welcome, from first-time singers to experienced performers. You'll be led by talented local and interstate artists in this highlight of Tasmania's winter festival season. Event Details: Free entry – no registration required Food and drinks available from local vendors Fun for all ages – bring family and friends Rug up and enjoy a lively evening of singing together Bring your voice, enthusiasm, and warmest clothes to be part of this unforgettable night. The Festival of Voices is committed to delivering an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally responsible event, focusing on sustainability through waste reduction, ethical sourcing, and energy-efficient practices.

Casey Donovan is embarking on her 2026 national tour, THIS IS ME. This is your exclusive opportunity to experience Casey in her purest form. Casey Up Close is an intimate, acoustic performance that strips away the frills to focus solely on her extraordinary voice. Accompanied by guitar, Casey will showcase the depth and magic of her vocals, sharing her two-decade musical journey. This is Casey's only solo performance in Tasmania as part of her national tour. This intimate concert offers a rare chance to see her up close. Audiences can expect an electrifying mix of her most iconic performances: Australian Idol classics, show-stopping hits from musicals (Chicago, 9 To 5, Sister Act), and brand-new original songs debuted live for the first time. Set in the award-winning Josef Chromy Wines in Relbia (20 minutes from Launceston), this exclusive show has very limited tickets. Tickets include a welcome drink. If you're interested in a return bus from Launceston, you can indicate this during pre-sale registration. Pre-sale opens midday Thursday 13 November, with general public tickets available Friday 14 November. Don't miss this rare chance to see Casey Donovan up close. Festival of Voices is committed to delivering an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally responsible event, embedding sustainability across our operations — from waste reduction and ethical sourcing to energy-efficient practices and low-impact marketing.

Central Highlands Lodge is on the shores of the Great Lake at Miena, in central Tasmania. "Gateway" to Tasmania's Central Plateau and world premier trout fishing grounds with around 3000 lakes, it is the most central fishing lodge to the famous fisheries of the Western Lakes, Arthurs Lake, Penstock and Little Pine Lagoons, all of which hold an abundance of wild brown trout. We will be happy to recommend the best spots to see or fish. We have a private fishing lake full of wild brown trout just for our guests to try their hand at. During the day or in the evening, relax in comfort by roaring log fires and dine in our restaurant for a hearty meal. Sample some of the best wines Tasmania has to offer whilst exchanging stories with our other guests, and some local personalities, accompanied by soft music and a friendly atmosphere this makes for an enjoyable Tasmanian experience. Our accommodation has been upgraded, all rooms have flat-screen televisions, electric blankets and new Daikin heat pumps to keep you warm on these chilly evenings, the spa cabin and spa unit have king beds.

Located in the heart of Tasmania, on the Central Highland Plateau, the Great Lake Hotel is the perfect place for a delicious, modern country-pub meal, a place to stay for a relaxing getaway or somewhere to base your next fishing or walking adventure. With constantly changing weather, regular snow days and a real sense of remote wilderness, it really is a place like no other. The hotel has a mix of single and shared rooms as well as family cabins. Open for lunch and dinner, renowned chef Paul Foreman brings his extensive experience to the Great Lake Hotel Restaurant, with a focus on fresh, local produce in a relaxed environment. They also offer camping and motor home facilities and have a General Store and petrol station to keep you stocked up on your travels. Having recently undergone an extensive cosmetic renovation, you will find yourself sitting by the roaring log fires, in comfy leather sofas with a local pinot or whisky, wondering why you didn't visit sooner.

Nestled in the remote wilderness of the Central Conservation area of the Highlands of Tamania, the Central Highlands Base Camp offers a perfect hub for guests wanting to enjoy the serene surrounds of the Great Lake or experience the world - class fly fishing or bushwalking that the area is famous for. This lodge is totally off the grid and offers guests the opportunity to embrace living sustainably. The lodge offers four bedrooms of twin or double share and two bathrooms, a large living/dining area, fully equipped kitchen and large outdoor deck. Australia's largest inland lake, the Great Lake is directly out the front offering amazing views, fishing, exploring. An immersive accommodation experience designed to make you feel part of the landscape and making a difference to the planet with a low carbon imprint.