Listen "Michelle Leonard OAM, artistic director and founder Moorambilla Voices"
Episode Synopsis
Our guest today is Michelle Leonard OAM, artistic director and founder Moorambilla Voices, an exceptional choir of children and youth from western NSW and a program that is deeply connected to the land in which it’s art is made. If you have ever been privy to Moorambilla Voices you will know it's power, giving rural children the chance to be a part of something so much bigger than themselves.Music, singing and instruments is innate for Michelle and her musically talented family who hail from the small rural town of Coonamble in NSW.Driven by a belief that music has the ability to improve mental health, community and deep spiritual connection, Michelle applied for a grant back in 2006, in what was to become the beginning Moorambilla Voices. Since that time, more than 25,000 students from 100 schools annually have come together to find their voice in a myriad of ways. This week, over 300 children will perform its 17th annual gala concert near Dubbo in central west New South Wales. ( This year’s music takes its inspiration from the rural community of Collarenebri and it’s unique connection to the River.)In 2017, Michelle was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for Services to the Community and Performing Arts.
More episodes of the podcast Life on the Land
Life on the Land with April Cavanagh
09/11/2025
Life on the Land with Susan McDonald
27/10/2025
Life on the Land with Laura Hockey
19/10/2025
Life on the Land with Kelly Shann
12/10/2025
Life on the Land with Penny Button
05/10/2025
Life on the Land with Isabella Thrupp
07/09/2025
Life on the Land with Kristy Hollis
31/08/2025
Life on the Land with Sarah De Jonge
24/08/2025
Life on the Land with Nicole McNaughton
17/08/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.