Penshurst soprano Kristen Butchatsky is among the talents who will raise their voice in latest upcoming performance of , on June 29. / (min cost $ 0 ) or signup to continue reading Held at The Neilson, Walsh Bay, the event will showcase choral music with a jazz band in tow. After the sell-out success of last year's , the choir returns with a whole new selection.
This year marks Ms Butchatsky's third year with the choir. A music teacher who plays the piano, she is also a conductor who directs a university choir. She has a Bachelor of Music Degree with Honours from UNSW with a major in vocal performance.
Despite being a "Johnny-come-lately" musician, the accomplished soprano always thought she would pursue a career as a classical singer. "I don't come from a musical background, I'm a bit of an outsider. I studied theology, and I'm a member of St Aidan's Anglican Church Hurstville Grove, where I was the music director.
" The singer took some time off as life stepped in - she had three children, but continued to conduct a children's choir. It wasn't until she found a "like-minded friend", and together they bought a francise for Jellybeans Music in 2014. Teaching music in primary schools - one day a week at Connells Point Public School and another day at Peakhurst Public School, is also a passion.
Ms Butchatsky's also sang with a leading Australian Gospel choir, The Cafe of the Gate of Salvation, for about eight years. But then COVID-19 struck. "It was a really hard time for singer.