meet Anne,
our director
Anne is a song leader who comes to Songshine after nearly 10 years of running “Singing Mums”, a group she established in 2015 as a way of connecting with other parents through the joy of group singing and music making. She loves nothing more than to create a welcoming space where people of all backgrounds and experience can feel comfortable and confident in finding their voices.
Anne comes from a musical family and grew up playing piano and cello. Her love of group singing and song leading was sparked in high school and has continued through the inspiration of working with Fay White and Tony Backhouse.
Other engagements include singing workshops for the city of Moreton Bay through the Anywhere Festival, where she travelled throughout the region, from the beach at Bribie Island to the hills of Woodford, to bring the community together through song.
Anne started with Songshine in early 2025 and has been warmly welcomed by the choir.
Repertoire
We sing a diverse range of music that includes world music, gospel, folk, arrangements of pop songs, inspirational contemporary music, and a little bit of jazz. Mostly we learn material from a score but not always. You don’t have to be able to read music.
Here’s a sample of the songs we have sung over the past few years that are typical of our repertoire:
Ain’t Misbehavin’ - Written by Andy Razaf, Fats Waller & Harry Brooks
Hard Times Come Again No More - origin
Siyahambe - origin
Our House - origin
The Water is Wide - Traditional folk song. Arranged by Jane Christie-Johson (2019)
Pata Pata - origin
Love Me Tender - origin
Un Poquito Cantas - origin
Joining the choir transformed my singing journey. Initially hesitant, the welcoming community and supportive director eased my nerves. Now, rehearsals bring joy and fulfillment, turning Monday nights into a cherished part of my week. Singing with this community enriched my life in unexpected ways, improving both my vocal skills and overall well-being. Grateful for the support, encouragement, and the beautiful music we create together.’
— Peter, singing since 2015
