After four decades, Sascha and Kate are still singing each other’s praises

After four decades, Sascha Davis and Kate Howard remain inseparable, their bond forged through shared experiences in the Australian Children’s Choir. On August 23, 2026, the pair reunited at an alumni choir rehearsal in Mount Evelyn, marking a milestone as they prepare to perform alongside current members in a concert celebrating the choir’s 50th anniversary. Davis, now in her late 40s, recalled how she first met Howard during her initial rehearsals in 1987 when she was just seven years old. Nervous and unfamiliar with the environment, she noticed a friendly face, Howard, who invited her to sit beside her. Their friendship blossomed over the next ten years, evolving into a lifelong connection that continues to thrive. The Australian Children’s Choir, established in 1976, has become a cornerstone of musical education and performance in Australia. Over the years, it has taken young singers around the globe, including a notable performance in St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. Davis, who joined the choir at age seven and remained a member until 1997, described her time in the group as transformative. She participated in high-profile events such as accompanying tennis star Marina Prior at an Australian Open final and singing at a VFL grand final. Her memories include memorable moments like sharing the stage with legendary performer John Farnham, whose collaborations with senior choristers included renditions of “You’re the Voice” during some of his most iconic performances. Farnham, known for his contributions to Australian music, visited a choir rehearsal in the early 1990s, where he interacted with both Davis and Howard. A photograph from that era shows Farnham flanked by the two women, with Howard’s sister Nicole seated nearby. For Davis, the enduring friendship with Howard stands out as a defining aspect of her experience. They have supported each other through major life events, serving as bridesmaids at each other’s weddings and even holding each other’s children. Howard’s siblings, Nicole and Olivia (Livvy), also played a role in Davis’s life, becoming like family. Kate Howard reflected on the impact of the choir beyond the music itself. She credited the organization with shaping her personal growth, helping her develop qualities such as discipline, confidence, and reliability. Reuniting with former choristers for the alumni concert brought a sense of nostalgia and joy, allowing her to reconnect with old friends. The event also highlighted the lasting influence of the choir on its members, many of whom have gone on to lead successful lives in various fields. Among the choir’s alumni is Marie and Jake Hoskin, who met while they were teenagers in the group. Their story began with a chance encounter and grew into a partnership that has lasted over two decades. One of their most memorable performances took place in 2003 when they performed “Great Expectations” with the rock band KISS at what is now known as Marvel Stadium. During a break in their European tour, the couple reenacted a scene from The Sound of Music, playing the roles of Liesl and Rolf in a lighthearted moment that underscored the fun and creativity fostered by the choir. Today, the Hoskins' son, Owen, is five years old and eligible for the choir’s junior section. The couple hopes he will join, continuing the legacy of the group that shaped their lives. The choir’s current artistic director, Daniel Brinsmead, emphasized the importance of community and dedication in sustaining the organization. He noted that the choir’s success is due to the commitment of its staff, families, and supporters, especially within Melbourne, where it holds a special place in the cultural fabric.