This week on Breaking Waves, Shai and Geoff welcome Barbara Beinart-Pashut, founder of the Daydream Believers Inclusive Choir, for a joyful conversation about music, confidence, community and inclusion.

The episode begins with choral music before moving into a warm discussion about singing, choirs and the power of shared performance. Barbara speaks about founding the Daydream Believers Inclusive Choir in 2009, inspired by her daughter Jamie Lee and her love of music, theatre and connection. The choir began as a way to create a supportive space where people could sing, dance, move, eat together and feel part of a welcoming community.

Barbara explains the meaning behind the name Daydream Believers, breaking down the words “day”, “dream” and “believe” as reminders to live fully, stay present, dream big and believe in yourself and others. She also talks about how the choir welcomes everyone, including people with disability, people on the NDIS and anyone who wants to sing, regardless of experience or ability.

Shai shares his own memories of singing with with the choir, while Geoff asks about choreography, improvisational dance, accessibility and how regular singing can help people build confidence over time. Barbara also reflects on the importance of repetition, large-print songbooks, movement, musical instruments and creating an environment where people can participate in their own way.