At the tender age of sixteen, I auditioned for my high school musical with a fervor that matched my naivety. Ignoring the music teacher's advice, I opted for "Flashdance... What a Feeling" by Irene Cara. The allure wasn't just in the melody but in embodying the film's iconic dancer with a welding mask. My preparation was relentless, replaying scenes on VHS and rehearsing endlessly at home. Yet, despite my dreams of sharing the stage with a certain crush, I was cast in a speaking role without a single note to sing. This early setback haunted me, leading to years of avoiding public singing until an unexpected event in Creswick rekindled my dormant passion.

Unleash Your Inner Voice Today

The Audition That Shaped Me

As a teenager, I was consumed by ambition and a desire to prove myself. Instead of heeding advice, I pursued a song far beyond my vocal range. Those days were filled with solitary rehearsals, memorizing lyrics while idolizing characters from the screen. My peers secured coveted roles, leaving me with a minor part that didn't involve singing. Though acting wasn't my forte, the thrill of being on stage remained unforgettable. Mastering my lines became my singular focus, even if it meant sidestepping the limelight.The repercussions of this decision lingered long after graduation. Public performances terrified me, save for rare moments like birthday celebrations or impromptu showers. Fear of judgment overshadowed any potential joy, cementing my resolve to avoid such situations. It wasn't until fate intervened during a weekend getaway that I reconsidered my stance.

A Weekend of Musical Discovery

CresFest, nestled in Victoria's countryside, is a celebration of all things musical. With performances ranging from local bands to international acts, it offers something for everyone. Joining friends who participated in a choir my late partner once belonged to, I felt a strange connection to their world. Their involvement in his memorial service had made me an honorary member, albeit silent. When they mentioned a community choir singalong, curiosity piqued alongside apprehension.That evening, as we drove through dimly lit roads, old fears resurfaced. Doubts clouded my mind, reminiscent of teenage anxieties. Upon arrival, the church buzzed with energy, welcoming participants based on vocal ranges. Unsure where I belonged, I followed a friend, discovering my place among the altos. Initially hesitant, I contemplated miming rather than risking embarrassment. However, surrounded by seasoned singers, the harmony of so many voices proved infectious.As the session progressed, the magic of collective music-making unfolded. Voices blended seamlessly, creating a symphony of sound that transcended individual abilities. Glancing at my friend's encouraging smile, I found courage to contribute genuinely. For an hour, we sang together, strangers united by a shared purpose. Despite knowing the lyrics would fade quickly, the experience left an indelible mark. Singing publicly with such camaraderie reignited a forgotten passion, proving even legendary performers would approve.

Lessons in Courage and Community

This journey wasn't merely about reclaiming a lost hobby; it was about confronting past insecurities. Each note sung resonated deeply, reminding me of forgotten dreams and unexplored potentials. Participating in CresFest underscored the importance of stepping outside comfort zones, embracing opportunities to grow. Music, once feared, became a bridge connecting disparate lives, fostering unity amidst diversity.Reflecting on the evening, I realized how transformative communal experiences can be. They challenge preconceived notions, replacing fear with empowerment. In a world often divided, finding common ground through art forms like music offers profound insights. The alto section might not have been my destiny initially, but its embrace taught invaluable lessons about acceptance and perseverance. As I departed the church, one truth lingered—music isn't solely about talent; it's about connection, healing, and rediscovery.