A SPECIAL community connection spanning 17 years will come full circle when the Choir of Hard Knocks visits Alexandra for a free community singing workshop and concert on Saturday 21 November 2026. Presented by Foundation Murrindindi and funded through the Murrindindi Disaster Fund, this special event will bring people together through music, friendship and shared experiences as communities across Murrindindi Shire continue their recovery from the January 2026 Longwood bushfires. For many locals, the event will hold a particularly special meaning, rekindling a connection that began in the aftermath of the devastating 2009 Black Saturday bushfires. In 2009, renowned choir conductor and founder of the Choir of Hard Knocks, Jonathon Welch AM, brought the joy of community singing to fire-affected residents in Murrindindi Shire. Ten years later, in April 2019, he returned with 60 members of his community choir, THECHO!R, for a special event organised by the Alexandra Brass Band to mark the 10th anniversary of the fires that brought together 135 participants for a day of singing, laughter, friendship and connection. Many of those attending had also participated in the original 2009 event. Now, 17 years after the Black Saturday fires, and with another bushfire recovery journey underway, Foundation Murrindindi is bringing that same spirit of connection back to Alexandra. More than just a concert The Choir of Hard Knocks will present two free community events at Alexandra Secondary College Hall, giving locals the opportunity to experience the joy of singing together or simply sit back and enjoy an inspiring performance. The day begins with a Community Singing Workshop from 11.30am to 1pm, led by the Choir's Co-Artistic Directors, Danielle Matthews and Adam Przewlocki, alongside members of the Choir of Hard Knocks. Participants will learn and practise a selection of songs in a relaxed, welcoming environment. No previous singing experience is necessary, just a willingness to have a go, share a laugh and enjoy being part of something special. Following the workshop, participants are invited to bring their own lunch and spend time with choir members, sharing stories and getting to know the people behind the music. At 2.30pm, the Choir of Hard Knocks will take to the stage for a free Community Concert Performance, showcasing the power of music to inspire, connect and uplift. In a special finale, workshop participants will be invited to join the Choir on stage to perform the songs they have learned together. The concert will be followed by light refreshments, providing another opportunity for community members to connect. A choir that has changed lives Founded in 2006 by Jonathon Welch AM for people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage, the Choir of Hard Knocks has become one of Australia's most inspiring musical success stories. Now celebrating its 20th year, the Choir continues to provide a safe, welcoming and supportive place where people can come together, find friendship and experience the joy of singing. Under the Co-Artistic Direction of Danielle Matthews and Adam Przewlocki, the Choir continues to demonstrate that music is about much more than performance. It is about belonging, acceptance, friendship and the simple joy of being together. These are the same qualities that make community connection so important during long-term recovery from natural disasters. Community recovery is about people While the physical rebuilding following the Longwood bushfires continues across Murrindindi Shire, Foundation Murrindindi recognises that recovery is also about supporting people's emotional wellbeing, rebuilding social connections and creating opportunities for communities to come together. Naomi McNamara, Chair of Foundation Murrindindi, says "We know from our experience that recovery is about much more than rebuilding homes, farms and fences. “It's also about people feeling connected, supported and part of their community. “Music has a wonderful way of bringing people together, and we're delighted to offer this opportunity to our fire-affected communities. “Events like this provide a chance to reconnect with neighbours, share experiences, enjoy something positive and remind people that they are not alone on their recovery journey.” The return of this special community singing experience is a reminder that recovery is not just about rebuilding what has been lost, but also about strengthening the connections that help communities move forward. Everyone is welcome Foundation Murrindindi warmly invites people from across Murrindindi Shire and surrounding communities to take part in this special day. Whether you love singing, have never sung outside the shower, or would simply enjoy an uplifting afternoon of music, there is something for everyone. Both the workshop and concert are completely free, with the option to attend both events or just the afternoon concert. Bookings are essential for catering purposes. The event will take place at the Alexandra Secondary College Hall on Saturday 21 November, with the Community Singing Workshop from 11.30am to 1pm, a lunch break from 1pm to 2.30pm (BYO lunch) and the Community Concert from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, followed by light refreshments. To book online for the Workshop and Concert, visit foundationmurrindindi.supporterhub.net.au/events/choir-of-hard-knocks-workshop-and-concert To book online for the Concert only, head to foundationmurrindindi.supporterhub.net.au/events/choir-of-hard-knocks-community-concert Alternatively, email sasha@foundationmurrindindi.org.au to book or for further information. This free community fire recovery event is funded by Foundation Murrindindi through their Murrindindi Disaster Fund.
