Excelsis, a musical marvel that originated in 2013, has been enchanting audiences with its harmonious melodies for ten glorious years. Founded by Musical Director Tom Buchanan, the choir emerged from a close-knit community of choristers who initially sang at Sunday Masses in Monash University, Clayton. Little did they know that this humble beginning would pave the way for an extraordinary musical journey.
In the Beginning: The Birth of Excelsis
Excelsis found its roots in the hearts of students from Monash University and enthusiastic singers from neighboring suburbs. Mostly composed of Filipino choristers during its early days, the choir quickly gained fame within the Filipino community in Melbourne. Soon, singles, couples, and whole families became part of Excelsis, forming a vibrant community of singers spanning all ages and backgrounds. Some children who accompanied their parents to rehearsals then are still cherished members of the choir today.
A Family Matter: The Heartwarming Bonds of Excelsis
The spirit of family and togetherness has been the lifeblood of Excelsis from the start. Ramon de Romas, one of the choir’s original Filipino members, joined forces with Tom back in 2011 when Tom was conducting at Monash University. Ramon was elected as the first President of Excelsis, supported by his wife, Riza. Their children, Elise and Agnes, also became early members of the choir. Throughout the years, Excelsis became an inseparable part of the de Romas family’s day-to-day life.
Similarly, Joy Bernal and her children Alikha, Jamilla, and Joshua were among the choir’s founding members. Singing with Excelsis became a cherished family tradition, with Joy, Jamilla, and Joshua continuing as regular members. Even Alikha, after a brief hiatus, returned to sing for Excelsis’ forthcoming 10th Anniversary Concert.
An International Affair: Embracing Diversity through Music
Excelsis’ allure stretches far beyond cultural boundaries. Over the years, the choir has welcomed members from various backgrounds, including Australia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Chile, Dubai, India, and Sri Lanka. Despite predominantly singing for the Catholic Church, Excelsis opens its arms to all, regardless of religious beliefs. The choir’s diverse membership reflects its commitment to unity and acceptance.
Sureela Skepper, a practising Sikh born in Singapore with Indian heritage, found her second family in Excelsis. Although initially hesitant, she was warmly welcomed into the choir, which she believes embodies the true meaning of “catholic” – a word derived from “catholicus” and “katholikós,” meaning universal and all-encompassing.
Ransika Bellanage, originally from Sri Lanka, joined Excelsis after accompanying his sister on a tour of the Philippines with the choir. The experience left him captivated, and upon his return, he joined the Tenor section, adding his voice to the choir’s diverse mix.
Heather Wearne, of Irish-Cornish heritage and a fifth-generation Australian, found her way to Excelsis after singing with Tom in other choirs. Besides the joy of community and camaraderie, Heather relishes the opportunity to perform classical sacred music with such an outstanding choir.
Ten Years of Singing: Excelsis’ Musical Journey
In its illustrious ten-year journey, Excelsis has graced numerous parishes around Melbourne, including St Elizabeth’s in Dandenong North, Christ Our Holy Redeemer in Oakleigh East, and St Francis’ in Melbourne. The choir has also performed in some of Melbourne’s most prestigious venues, such as The Melbourne Recital Centre, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the steps of the State Library of Victoria, leaving audiences captivated by their enchanting performances.
The choir’s repertoire is as diverse as its membership, encompassing classical music, gospel, contemporary choral works, movie soundtracks, and music theater. Moreover, Excelsis boasts proficiency in various languages, singing not only in English but also in Latin, Tagalog, Ilocano, Visayan, Mandarin, Swahili, Zulu, Xhosa, German, French, Welsh, Greek, Church Slavonic, and more.
Excelsis: A Harmonic Future
Excelsis’ 10th Anniversary is a year of celebration, marked by exciting performances and collaborations. Having already presented ‘An Evening with Excelsis’ and participated in the Mornington Winter Music Festival, the choir eagerly awaits its major concert at St Paul’s Cathedral, featuring Dan Forrest’s stirring masterpiece, Requiem for the Living, in collaboration with the Yarra Philharmonic Orchestra.
Following the anniversary concert, Excelsis will conclude the year with two concerts in October, one in Geelong as part of the Wind Fire Festival and another in Ashburton. The choir will also host a Nine Lessons and Carols service in December, spreading the joy of the season through song. The pinnacle of the year will be the third concert tour of the Philippines in January 2024, where the choir will share its musical gifts and forge new friendships.
Join the Harmonic Journey
Excelsis welcomes music enthusiasts from all walks of life to become part of their melodious voyage. If you have a passion for music and seek a supportive community, reach out to the choir’s Secretary, Megan, via email at info@excelsis.org.au.
10th Anniversary Concert
Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Excelsis in the 10th Anniversary Concert “Requiem for the Living” at St Paul’s Cathedral. Book your tickets now!
As Excelsis enters its second decade, the choir remains committed to embracing diversity, fostering unity, and spreading the power of music to all corners of the world. Let us celebrate the past and embrace the future with the harmonious voices of Excelsis leading the way!
