The Big Sing 2026

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.

The Pop-up Program returns in 2026, building on last year's immense statewide success! From the bustling energy of Salamanca Market to the fresh air of our beautiful kunanyi, to the cosy glow of a fire in one of our celebrated breweries or lounges, or the rustic charm of an iconic Tasmanian landmark, our choral groups will once again bring joyous moments of harmony to every corner of the state. This is one highlight of Festival of Voices that truly makes it so special. Following the tremendous response to our biggest-ever Pop-up program in 2025, we're thrilled to once again showcase an incredible collection of Tasmanian voices alongside brilliant interstate and international choirs as we journey across Tasmania. Want to catch your favourite choir, or perhaps discover something new? Keep an eye on our website for the release of the 2026 Pop-up Program after Easter. Until then, you can view our extensive 2025 program below, to whet your appetite. Here's our promise: wherever you find our singers, you'll find joy. That's the heart of Festival of Voices – the pure, simple magic of voices coming together in harmony. So come along, be surprised, be moved, and be part of something extraordinary.

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.

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.

We are 41 room hotel in the heart of Salamanca, Hobart surrounded by many of the best eating and dining establishments in Hobart. Our hotel lies within two converted convict-built ex-warehouses, designed to reflect and show this heritage connection while bringing the wilderness of Tasmania into the hotel through our multi-storey plant-filled light wells and planted areas. Many of our rooms feature sandstone walls and exposed timber beams. We are both boutique and unique. Each guest is treated as a family member and our hotel is truly a sanctuary amongst the hustle and bustle of this vibrant southern city. Almost all of the room fixtures and its furniture and other rooms product has been sourced locally from Tasmanian suppliers. Staying here is a true Tasmanian experience.

Waterman's Hotel is Salamanca. Experience Salamanca and Hobart's waterfront. Waterman's was convict built in 1840 and recently architecturally transformed into our boutique hotel. Your time is precious so book now and reward yourself. Stay at Waterman's Hotel and within a 5-minute walk experience, the MONA ferry, award-winning Restaurants, Bars, Local Artisans and the Hobart CBD. Enjoy a drink or two and our casual Italian menu downstairs at Waterman’s Hotel Bar and Dining.

Salamanca Terraces offers self-contained and fully serviced accommodation located right on Salamanca Place in the picturesque and historic Sullivan's Cove waterfront precinct of Hobart. The apartments feature spacious living areas and offer one-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom townhouses, two-bedroom / two bathroom apartments, and penthouse apartments with fully equipped modern kitchens and laundry facilities. The studio apartments offer a kitchenette and ensuite. Salamanca Terraces also provides complimentary wireless internet access, is fully air-conditioned, has complimentary on-site car parking, 24 hour reception, express check-out service, and daily housekeeping services. The flexibility, comfort and location of Salamanca Terraces provide the perfect accommodation choice for business travellers, holiday visitors and extended stays for executive relocations. Enjoy the best location in Hobart. Location can make such a difference to the enjoyment of your stay in Hobart. Salamanca Terraces is ideally situated on Salamanca Place, adjacent to Hobart's picturesque waterfront and the historic precinct of Battery Point. Stroll the cobbled pathways, marvel at the skills of local craftspeople, or browse the art galleries in this unique cultural heartland of Australia's island state. Also, don't forget to experience the famous Salamanca Markets on Saturdays.