This is MAIN HUB for accessing the inspirational charity concerts supporting mental health and wellbeing. Presented by Australian Catholic University (ACU) in partnership with St Patrick's Cathedral (Fri 27 June) and Preston Market (Sat 28 June) led by conductor Dr Kathleen McGuire, the 2025 project will benefit non-profit health organisations Orygen and headspace.

"Big Sing for a Big Cause brings people together to experience an inspiring, international program of voices and instruments, raising awareness and lifting spirits," said Dr McGuire. "This cause affects many people, especially youth. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported 42.9% of people aged 16–85 years experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life, and 38.8% of people aged 16–24 years had a 12-month mental disorder. (ABS, 2023).

Audiences will leave with a sense of supportive reassurance through messages like 'You Are Enough' and 'You Are Not Alone.' We are excited to raise funds for two amazing, world-leading mental health organisations supporting young people in Melbourne and Australia."

Volunteer singers, choirs and instrumentalists from Victoria and Indonesia will combine in this special international event. The music reflects and embodies the mental health theme, featuring the Australian premiere of The Mental Health Suite for orchestra by Autumn Maria Reed and You Are Enough: A Mental Health Suite for choir and orchestra by Aron Accurso and Rachel Griffin (aka "Miss Rachel"). The program also includes "This Day" by Australian musician Astrid Jorgensen (founder, Pub Choir) and stirring music from Dear Evan Hansen, a contemporary musical about social anxiety.

The Big Sing features special guests: Manado State University Choir on tour from North Sulawesi, Indonesia, with music director and conductor Professor André de Quadros, and the Pasefika Vitoria Choir (Friday only) led by music director Rita Seumanutafa-Palala.

The performers (choir and orchestra) include ACU students, staff and alumni, plus individuals and community groups including Justice Choir Naarm and La Trobe University Choral Society. 

Tickets include free offerings for agencies and clients involved with mental health support services, and anyone who cannot afford to buy a ticket, and a special Mob Tix for First Peoples. Discounts are also available for ACU students. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.

The performances will be held at 7PM on Friday 27 June at St Patrick's Cathedral, Melbourne and Saturday 28 June at Preston Market. The Friday performance will also be available via livestream.

Auslan interpretation is available for the Friday performance.

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Concert 1: Friday 27 June, 2025 - 7PM at St Patrick's Cathedral, Melbourne (also available via LIVESTREAM).

Concert 2: Saturday 28 June, 2025 - 6PM at Preston Market.

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