The musicians who make a real difference in our communities aren’t household names – they’re the musicians creating meaningful social connections through participatory music-making.
Join Dr Melissa Forbes - singer, researcher, educator, and community music leader - as she explores how these remarkable but unsung music leaders revitalise our social health.
Drawing on insights from positive psychology, social psychology, and leadership research, each episode features conversations with musicians who are building connection through their work.
Whether you’re a musician seeking meaningful work, a music educator training future musicians, or a health professional interested in music’s social impact, discover practical strategies for creating positive change through music.
Let’s make music that matters.
All content for Leading Notes Podcast is the property of Melissa Forbes and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
The musicians who make a real difference in our communities aren’t household names – they’re the musicians creating meaningful social connections through participatory music-making.
Join Dr Melissa Forbes - singer, researcher, educator, and community music leader - as she explores how these remarkable but unsung music leaders revitalise our social health.
Drawing on insights from positive psychology, social psychology, and leadership research, each episode features conversations with musicians who are building connection through their work.
Whether you’re a musician seeking meaningful work, a music educator training future musicians, or a health professional interested in music’s social impact, discover practical strategies for creating positive change through music.
Let’s make music that matters.
3. Leaning towards joy: The importance of singing for men with Chris Blain
Leading Notes Podcast
39 minutes 33 seconds
6 months ago
3. Leaning towards joy: The importance of singing for men with Chris Blain
Episode Description
Chris Blain discusses his evolution from professional a cappella performer to community music facilitator, sharing insights about inclusive music making and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can participate. Learn how his work with Men in Suits and With One Voice is helping to rebuild singing traditions and foster positive masculinity through group singing.
Key Topics Discussed
Creating inclusive spaces for all abilities and backgrounds
The importance of joy over perfection in music making
Building community through men's singing
Strategies for inclusive music facilitation
The role of music in fostering connection and wellbeing
Notable Quotes
"Live music is about changing the way people feel. And you don't do that with excellence. You do that with heart and with soul, and with connecting with people."
"It's never about the song, it's about the moment you're creating. The song is just a vehicle."
"Just lean towards joy... I just started leaning towards the things that made me happier and away from the things that made me tired and grumpy and cynical."
Resources Mentioned
Men in Suits
I've Got the House To Myself Today by Men in Suits
Creativity Australia
SUADE
About Chris Blain
Choir Operations Coordinator at Creativity Australia and conductor of With One Voice Whitehorse. Musical director of men's choir Men In Suits and director of Melbourne Singing Events. Former founding director of Vocal Australia and operations manager at MusoMagic. Chris brings decades of experience in both professional performance and community music facilitation.
Connect with Chris
Men in Suits
Connect with Melissa
LinkedIn
Join the conversation about positive music leadership and community music making
Share your thoughts about this episode using #LeadingNotes
Episode Highlights
The journey from performance excellence to community connection
Creating safe spaces for men to sing together
Strategies for inclusive music making
The importance of organic community building
Moving beyond perfectionism in music
The role of joy in sustainable music practice
Leading Notes is a podcast exploring innovative approaches to music leadership and education. Find more episodes at https://leadingnotespodcast.podbean.com/
This project was made possible by The Winston Churchill Trust’s Impact Fund, supporting Churchill Fellows to achieve impact in Australia following their Fellowship travels. Read more about the Churchill Trust and other Fellowship stories via thewebsite ChurchillFellowships.com.au
Leading Notes Podcast
The musicians who make a real difference in our communities aren’t household names – they’re the musicians creating meaningful social connections through participatory music-making.
Join Dr Melissa Forbes - singer, researcher, educator, and community music leader - as she explores how these remarkable but unsung music leaders revitalise our social health.
Drawing on insights from positive psychology, social psychology, and leadership research, each episode features conversations with musicians who are building connection through their work.
Whether you’re a musician seeking meaningful work, a music educator training future musicians, or a health professional interested in music’s social impact, discover practical strategies for creating positive change through music.
Let’s make music that matters.
