Moorambilla Voices choir to perform at Sydney Opera House

Moorambilla Voices, a rural youth choir, will celebrate its 21st anniversary with a performance titled ‘The Power of Possibilities’ at the Sydney Opera House on October 3. Founded and conducted by Michelle Leonard, the program serves approximately 80 rural and remote communities between Wellington and Wilcannia in western New South Wales.

The initiative introduces children and teenagers to musical literacy, singing, dancing, and movement. The 400-member choir frequently performs using traditional languages and has been accompanied by chamber orchestras and traditional Japanese drumming.

Ms. Leonard, who has taught 55,000 young people over two decades, emphasizes that the program helps regional students find their place in the wider world and builds confidence. The benefits of choral singing, including improved emotional regulation and social connectedness, are supported by research such as a 2012 University of Queensland study.