We are delighted to announce that AJHS and ASHS are starting a combined Big Sing Choir in 2026! This will be the elite school choir, where a group of the best singers are selected to represent both schools through the art of choral singing in Australasia’s largest and most prestigious secondary school choral competition, THE BIG SING.
The Big Sing Choir is open to students who will be in Years 9-13 (across both schools) in 2026.
What is the Big Sing?
Australasia’s largest and most prestigious secondary school choral competition, the Big Sing is a Kiwi phenomenon. Involving over 8,000 students from 200+ schools, supported by their families and communities, the event attracts the most participants of any New Zealand music event. It is a highlight of the school year, and a rite of passage for young singers from Kaitaia to Bluff. Almost half of New Zealand’s secondary schools send choirs to this annual national choral festival, and nearly all of the country’s top singers, solo and choral, from the past several decades, have emerged from it.
Acclaimed for its exceptional standard of performance, the Big Sing has a profound effect on its competitors. Not only does it stimulate an appreciation of a broad range of choral music, students’ leadership skills are greatly enhanced through participation, cultivating the next generation of choral leaders.
Rehearsals:
The AJHS & ASHS BIG SING CHOIR will rehearse twice a week.
-
Full Choir Rehearsal:
Time: After school, Wednesdays: 3.45pm – 4.45pm
Location: Odd weeks AJHS, even weeks ASHS
-
Sectional Rehearsals:
One lunchtime per week
Term 1: held separately at each school
Term 2: held together split between each school
The choir is a combined ensemble between the two schools, and is taken by Pip Faulknor and Esther Leefe, Music Specialist Teachers at AJHS & ASHS. Rehearsals will include learning songs, & vocal & choral singing techniques.
To sign up or for more information please email Pip Faulknor pip.faulknor@ajhs.school.nz. Audtions are already underway!
