Men in Suits choir is ‘like men’s shed with singing’

The Power of Harmony: Men in Suits Choir Creates a Sense of Belonging

The Men in Suits choir is more than just a group of singers—it’s a community bound together by music, camaraderie, and shared experiences. For these men, harmonizing with one another is not just about creating beautiful music; it’s about finding a sense of purpose and belonging. After their Thursday night rehearsals at Armadale Baptist Church, the choir traditionally gathers at the Orrong Hotel for drinks, conversation, and more singing. This post-rehearsal ritual often ends with a rousing rendition of the maritime classic Sloop John B, a testament to their shared love for music and each other’s company. The choir’s ability to harmonize extends beyond their songs, fostering deep connections among its members and creating a supportive environment where men can open up and be themselves.

Finding Belonging in Music and Friendship

For many members of Men in Suits, the choir has become a vital part of their lives, offering a sense of belonging they might not find elsewhere. Doug Fallscheer, a newer member of the choir, describes feeling "immediately welcomed and embraced" by the group. He values the opportunity to connect with other fathers about the challenges of raising teenagers, finding common ground in shared experiences. The choir also has a social forum called the "Bullshit Channel" on WhatsApp, where members can solve problems, share jokes, and stay connected outside of rehearsals. This camaraderie is at the heart of what makes Men in Suits more than just a choir—it’s a brotherhood.

Embracing Blokey Culture with Humor and Heart

Choir master Chris Blain affectionately refers to Men in Suits as "a bunch of old geezers," a nod to their ability to poke fun at traditional blokey culture while embracing it. The choir’s performances are a mix of humor and heart, reflecting the personalities of its members. Their upcoming tour of England in June, which includes stops at the BlokeFest men’s choir festival in Pewsey, Wiltshire, and performances in Bath, Bristol, Portsmouth, and London, promises to showcase their unique blend of wit and musical talent. Back in Australia, the choir has sung at festivals, business conferences, weddings, and even flash mobs, once getting ejected from the Block Arcade by security guards for their impromptu performance.

Music as a Source of Comfort and Connection

For some members of Men in Suits, the choir has been a source of emotional support during difficult times. Chorister Alan Stephens was deeply touched when his fellow choir members traveled to Acheron, northeast of Melbourne, to perform at his brother John’s funeral. Singing Hallelujah and He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother was a poignant moment for Stephens, who had to fight back tears during the performance. For him, the choir is "like a men’s shed, except we sing instead of building things." This sense of camaraderie and support is a recurring theme among members, many of whom have found solace in the choir during personal struggles.

Overcoming Life’s Challenges Together

Doug Clark, a chorister of 10 years, is one of many members who credit the choir with helping them navigate life’s challenges. After going through a marriage breakup last year, Clark found comfort in the support of his fellow choir members. While the group often engages in light-hearted banter and bravado, their bond runs deep. "We are blokes, and there’s a lot of banter and bravado," Clark says. "But we’re not just singing together, we’re supporting each other." This sentiment is echoed by many in the choir, who see their shared musical pursuits as a way to build stronger, more meaningful relationships.

Joining Forces for a Common Goal

Men in Suits is gearing up for their next big adventure—a tour of England—and they’re inviting their supporters to join in the excitement. A fundraising concert titled Send Us Packing is scheduled for March 29 at Armadale Baptist Church hall, with details available at www.meninsuits.com.au/concert. This event is more than just a performance; it’s a celebration of the choir’s spirit and a chance to contribute to their upcoming international performances. For the men of Men in Suits, music is not just a hobby—it’s a way of life, a way to connect, and a way to make a difference in each other’s lives.