Boîte Schools Chorus 2026
Akoma - The Heart
Pictures from previous years of Boite Schools Chorus'.
Image 1: Mai Fali Eh! Songs and Stories of Timor-Leste. Attended by His Excellency Dr José Ramos-Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.
In 2026 the Boîte Schools Chorus will venture into the songs and culture of Ghana, guided by cultural leaders who teach the choir and bring the music to life through stories, dance and song.
The 2026 program, Akoma - The Heart is a unique invitation to visit the music and culture of Ghana. It offers students an opportunity to develop musical and performance skills, and experience the joy of singing in a large, vibrant choir. If you are looking for a unique cultural program for your school, this is your event.
The Boîte Schools Chorus is an un-auditioned choir project for schools and community youth choirs. Since 2004 the Boîte Schools Chorus has involved over 9000 students from across Victoria in 42 concerts in Melbourne, Frankston, Ballarat, Bairnsdale & Albury. The Boite Schools Chorus project invites students into a new world through song, builds confidence, broadens horizons and develops valuable performance and interpersonal skills.
Each year the chorus focuses on a different cultural theme.
Want your school to be part of the magic next year? Get in touch today via the form below!
F.A.Q’s
Who can join?
Primary schools and Secondary schools, including: Government and non-government schools, specialist, distance education and homeschools.
How many students can enrol?
You can choose. We have had numbers between 6 - 86! Sometimes a whole year level, or even a full school will enrol.
When can we rehearse?
We recommend once a week for 2 - 3 months. Lunchtimes, after school, or during class, depending on what suits your schedule.
How many songs will we learn?
8 -10 songs, in various Ghanaian languages. We make it very easy to learn the songs through our private YouTube videos. You will also receive a story for some students to narrate.
Will the students have fun?
YES, they will love it! We offer an engaging, relaxed and unforgettable experience.
Who can teach the choirs within the school?
Music teachers have taught the songs to various participartory choirs across the history of this project supported by assistants, parents and volunteers.
“It was wonderful, my cup is full!"
“I was blown away - very moving, my daughter was beaming”
“Oh my goodness what a beautiful evening, thanks for giving our kids the opportunity to be part of such a special experience”.
- Feedback from parents in the Boite Schools Chorus 2025 program
"I am glad that we all participated and together sang our hearts out until the end. I am glad that we got to have a once in a lifetime experience. I am glad that you brought us together and I am proud of singing with others....."
- Student from Boite Schools Chorus 2024 program
2026: Akoma - The Heart (Songs and Stories of Ghana)
2025: Mai Fali Eh, Songs and Stories of Timor-Leste
2024: Los Niños: The Children
2023: Maiem - Songs of the Torres Strait
2021: Akoma - The Heart
2019: Dhungala Choral Connection
2018: Mission Songs Project
2017: Haven-A Place of Refuge,of Safety, a Harbour
2016: Windrush - I Don't Want To Go Alone
2015: One Africa - Stories, Rhythms and Songs
2014: Gurrong – New Treasures in an Old Land
2013: Coco de Mer – Sounds of the Seychelles
2012: Mai Fali Eh – Songs of Timor Leste
2011: Freedom Road – Gospel songs
2010: Todo Cambia – Everything Changes
2009: Our Home, Our Land – Songs of Indigenous Australia
2008: Limpopo – Songs of South Africa
2007: Nongoma- Songs from Across Africa
2006: Rongo – Voices from Australasia & Oceania
2004: Flight – A Concert for Refugees
Themes by Year
Meet the Directors
Stella Savy
Choir Director
Stella has been a vocal coach for over 20 years, conducting groups such as Sweet Mona’s Choir, the Mini Mona’s Choir and Thursday Night Community Choir. Stella has worked with The Boite on many choir projects over the last 10 years, Freedom Road, Mai Fali Eh, Coco de Mer, Windrush and Haven. Stella has worked with choirs and groups all around the world and has an energetic and fun approach to facilitating her sessions. Stella also performs regularly in her bands, playing percussion, singing and guitar. Stella and her husband Mishael Gyabeng conduct cultural tours to the Seychelles and Ghana every year, giving visitors a personal, musical and educational holiday experience.
Mishael Gyabeng
Artistic Director
Mishael Gyabeng, a native of Jukwaa in the Central Region of Ghana. Growing up, Mishael had the privilege of learning the traditional rhythms and dances that were exclusive to the kings and queens of his community. Some of these unique pieces include Aprede, Asasaa, Moses, and Asafo. Mishael's upbringing provided him with a rich cultural background and a deep understanding of his community's musical traditions. Beginning his journey at the age of 7 joining the Jukwaa Kete Traditional Group then relocated to Cape Coast and became a member of the Aboase Group, later Asanti Dance Theatre.
In addition to his achievements with traditional drumming groups, Mishael has also immersed himself in the contemporary music scene, playing with various bands and touring throughout West Africa. Mishael has taken on the role of a dedicated teacher, sharing his knowledge and skills with people from diverse backgrounds.