Many Moons Sing as One by Akech Manyiel and Pamela Scriven

They come from Cambodia, China and the Philippines but the choristers of the Many Moons choir are united in song.

The members of this multicultural group, one of several choirs drawn from the housing estates of the City of Yarra, sing together as a way of breaking their social isolation, learning a new language and broadening employment opportunities. Choir members say it is also a kind of emotional therapy.

“Worry and anxiety are gone and replaced with happiness when we sing together,” said Shuqun Yuan, a member of the Many Moons choir who resides at Collingwood estate.

The Many Moons choir was formed in 2001 by writer/playwright Graham Pitts, as part of method of learning English as a second language.

“We use one hour of the English class for singing and another hour for learning” said Yuan.

According to research conducted by the Yarra Office of Housing, social isolation has been one of the biggest issues for residents of housing estates because of poverty, language barriers and cultural differences.

“The increase in programs that are developed for residents, without consulting or involving them, and the increase of drug problems in Yarra community are also contributing factors” according to the report.

One of the choirs, Melbourne Sings, has attracted support from Melbourne’s business community and even rehearses in the swank Sofitel Hotel in the city. But the aim is the same: to reach disadvantaged communities and provide them with new opportunities.

The choir is backed by Creativity Australia, in partnership with Infoxchange Australia, Sofitel Melbourne, Allan’s Music and Australia Cares.

Creativity Australia is a not-for-profit organisation partnering with business, education, health, community and charity groups, government and philanthropists. Its mission is to develop sustainable and creative programs and advocate for creative thinking and leadership in the workforce, in partnership with the community.

“This unique program enables people of different backgrounds to come together and sing and support their community” said Tania de Jong, Creativity Australia founder. There is also the opportunity of networking to gain employment.

Singing is also used as a creative solution for community organisations such as Collingwood Neighbourhood House. Established in 1999, the Neighbourhood House provides Collingwood residents with information and services, including English lessons, singing, computer classes, and social and recreational programs.

Sue Kent, the Collingwood Neighbourhood House coordinator and member of the Bridge the Gap choir, says her organization “ is for everyone and offers low cost activities, so people can participate in them...creates opportunities and forge relationship and break down isolation.”

Being able to express how they feel through singing has increased the confidence of residents in then housing estates. Their active participation in the choirs shows that they are “able and creative,” she said.

A “Big Sing,” involving all the City of Yarra choirs and other invited choir groups, is being organized for July this year.