Veteran reflects on cherished choir memories

With 16 years performing and singing with the Sydney Street Choir, skilled guitarist David Richardson is one of its longest serving and most cherished choir leaders.

His enthusiasm for community music is as fresh as day one and his trademark humble nature hides a real talent for spotting great singalong tunes.

David Richardson says he feels lucky to be a part of the Sydney Street Choir.

As a former English teacher, David spent years teaching the language to foreign students.

He now devotes much of his time to music, playing piano in a band and leading rehearsals for the Sydney Street Choir which has become an essential part of his life.

And although last September his dedication was acknowledged at the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, you’ll never hear him boast about it.

For David, the choir is more than just a collection of singers. It’s a place of friendship and community.

“I think people are drawn to the choir because there’s always something happening,” he explained.

“We’ve been featured on Sunrise, the Morning Show and performed at some big events. That kind of visibility keeps people engaged.”

His introduction to the Sydney Street Choir came through a chance encounter with one of its former directors.

In 2008, when the choir was preparing for a 17-day tour in the Northern Territory, he was invited to join on the condition that he attend rehearsals – such was his guitar and piano playing talent.

“So I started going to rehearsals and I never stopped,” David said.

And it led to one of the most profound experiences of his musical life, he revealed.

David continues to give his all at regular Redfern rehearsals.

The choir performed at the Darwin Festival and in iconic locations such as Kings Canyon and later a deeply moving performance at Uluru.

“We sang I’m a Child of Europe, a song written by a fellow choir member from the Stolen Generations.”

David has seen firsthand how the choir transforms lives and provides a creative outlet for those who had never been confident enough to sing in public.

He said the biggest challenges for new members are often logistical such as nerves or getting to rehearsals.

And although David doesn’t consider himself a mentor, he has no doubt played a key role in the choir’s evolution.

When their long-time co-director left, he stepped up to lead rehearsals.

And his influence is evident in the song choices, introducing the singers to Blackfella/Whitefella by Warumpi Band and most recently Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline.

“I chose it because I saw how people reacted to it at a pub,” he admitted. “It’s not my favorite song but it brings people together. And I love cricket so I knew it was a crowd favourite with the (England supporters) Barmy Army.”

And his hopes for 2025 and beyond?

“More performances, more opportunities,” David said. “Last year was slow but things have really taken off again. Maybe we could even record a song or write something new.”

He loves the choir’s vibrant community filled with unique talents.

Members contribute in all sorts of ways, from song suggestions to baking delicious treats such as Jono, a former chef, whose scones have become a rehearsal staple.

“It’s those little things that make the choir special,” David added. “I feel really lucky to have been part of this for so long. It’s been an amazing experience and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”