Alan Shao awarded ANCA Choralfest 2026 Regional Voices Scholarship

The Regional Voices Scholarship is designed for tertiary students and recent graduates with a strong commitment to choral music, particularly those pursuing careers in conducting and music education. The award includes full registration for the Choralfest 2026 in April, support for travel and accommodation, and one year of ANCA membership. Based in Newcastle, Shao is an active and emerging choral leader in the Hunter region. He currently serves as President and Conductor of the A Cappella Club at the University of Newcastle, is a Tutor with Hunter Singers, and a Choral Scholar at Christ Church Cathedral. He is also completing a Diploma of Music at the University of New England, due for completion in 2026. In his application, Shao highlighted his commitment to creating accessible and engaging singing opportunities for young people, particularly within public education settings. He noted that the professional learning and networking opportunities at Choralfest would directly benefit the choirs and singers he works with across the Newcastle region. Reflecting on the award, Shao said: ‘I am so lucky to have received so many opportunities from kind and skilled mentors that have all built me into the musician I am today, yet I’m keenly aware that many people have not been so lucky. The Choralfest scholarship is so exciting because it aids me in my goal of creating more of these opportunities for as many people as possible.’ Shao also spoke about the importance of fostering inclusive, engaging and technically strong choral environments for young singers, and how Choralfest will support his development as both a conductor and educator. As a university student balancing part-time work alongside teaching and conducting commitments, the scholarship will play a crucial role in enabling Shao to attend Choralfest 2026. ANCA said it looks forward to supporting his continued development and the impact of his work within regional choral communities.