In 2026, The Boite Schools Chorus will come back to Bairnsdale after a long break, promising yet another cherished experience for children throughout our region.
Lots of local primary schools are really excited about the opportunity to be involved but financial constraints are a challenge.
The Boîte is launching a new donor campaign, Give a Child a Song, inviting the community to help more regional students experience the joy of singing in the Boîte Schools Chorus in 2026.
For more than 20 years, the Boîte Schools Chorus (BSC) has brought thousands of young voices together, offering students the chance to learn music from around the world while building confidence, teamwork and performance skills.
Through this campaign, The Boîte is seeking support to ensure regional schools can continue to access this transformative program.
In 2026 the BSC will explore the music and culture of Ghana through the program Akoma – The Heart.
Guided by Ghanaian cultural leaders, students will learn songs, stories and dance traditions that bring this vibrant culture to life.
Akoma, meaning “heart” in the language of the Asante people of Ghana, symbolises love, endurance, patience and tolerance.
The choir will be led by Artistic Director and Ghanaian Master Drummer, Mishael Gyabeng, alongside Choir Director Stella Savy, who together will guide students through an exciting musical journey celebrating West African traditions.
Since 2004, the Boîte Schools Chorus has involved more than 13,000 students from across Victoria, performing in 58 concerts in Melbourne and regional centres including Ballarat, Bairnsdale, Albury and the Mornington Peninsula.
Since the COVID pandemic, fewer schools – particularly in regional areas – have been able to participate, as budget pressures, staff workload and the rising cost of living impact school communities.
Many regional schools face increasing barriers to arts participation.
Limited funding stretched resources and rising costs mean smaller schools often struggle to provide performing arts opportunities.
Programs like the Boîte Schools Chorus offer a rare chance for children to work with professional artists, perform in major venues, and engage with culturally diverse music.
“It is so important for our kids to be able to participate in such amazing activities; these will be what they remember from their time at primary school. Thank you for including us,” said Mary Verwey, teacher at Heatherhill Primary School.
Participation in music programs like the Boîte Schools Chorus benefits children far beyond the rehearsal room.
Singing together strengthens memory, concentration and self-regulation, while musical concepts such as rhythm and pattern support numeracy and analytical skills.
Group music-making encourages teamwork and collaboration, building confidence and a sense of belonging.
The program also introduces students to cultures beyond their own, fostering curiosity, respect and understanding in an increasingly diverse Australia. The program is proudly non-auditioned, giving every child who wishes to sing the chance to take part.
In East Gippsland, schools and students will start learning Akoma songs in various languages from mid-May, rehearsing both individually and together over 12 weeks.
The final concert is at The Forge Theatre on Friday, August 21 at 5.30 pm – everyone is invited to attend this lively celebration.
Through the Give a Child a Song campaign, donors can help ensure more regional students experience this unforgettable musical journey All donations will go towards supporting more students to be part of this program
Help give a child the joy of singing.
