A pub full of people belting out Toto’s “Africa” is bliss for Astrid Jorgensen, yet the sound of popcorn being chewed nearby can drive her to distraction. This paradox lies at the heart of Jorgensen’s life, where she has transformed her sensitivity to sound into a global musical phenomenon known as Pub Choir.
Despite her aversion to certain noises, Jorgensen has made a career out of organized sound. Her ability to channel her auditory sensitivity into something positive has not only brought joy to thousands but also established her as a unique figure in the world of music. “Probably the most contradictory part of my life is that I despise sounds,” she told Australian Story. “I am infuriated by the sound of other people being alive, which is crazy, because at my show, that is the only thing you can hear, and I love that sound.”
The Birth of Pub Choir
Pub Choir began as a simple idea in 2017, with 80 people gathering in a Brisbane pub to sing together. Under Jorgensen’s guidance, these informal gatherings have evolved into a worldwide sensation. Her unique approach involves leading a group of untrained strangers to learn a song in three-part harmony in just 90 minutes. By the end of each session, the audience becomes the star.
Musician Ben Lee compares the experience to a night out with friends when a favorite song plays, and everyone sings along. “The way she is fostering a love of music in her audiences … takes this from being just entertainment to actually being like a public service,” Lee remarked.
Astrid’s keen ear and upbeat vibe have won the praise of the reclusive Kate Bush, taken her to the stage of America’s Got Talent, and led her to conduct 2,400 people on Sir Richard Branson’s cruise ship.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Jorgensen’s journey to becoming a global music icon was not straightforward. Born in New Zealand, she moved to Australia as a child and struggled to find her place in high school. Her first taste of musical applause came during a school talent quest, igniting her passion for music as a means of connection.
A visit to her aunt in Zambia at age 16 further deepened her love for music. Witnessing an African congregation singing in complex harmony was a revelation. “I was worshipping the music,” she recalls. This experience shifted her focus from a potential religious calling to a musical one.
Back in Australia, Jorgensen pursued a degree, initially considering a life as a nun. However, her first lecture in aural musicianship revealed her unique ability to audiate—hearing music in her mind when it’s not playing out loud. This realization marked a turning point, affirming her musical talent.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite her musical gifts, Jorgensen faced personal challenges, including an eating disorder. With the support of her partner, Evyn Arnfield, and professional help, she has managed the illness, channeling her energy into her passion for music.
After a brief stint as a music teacher, which she found unfulfilling, Jorgensen took a year off to reassess her career. During this time, she discovered her true calling in conducting community choirs, which eventually led to the creation of Pub Choir.
The concept of a non-competitive, inclusive choir resonated with her deeply. “I knew what to do with my arms, I knew how to pace the lesson,” she recalls of her first experience conducting a school choir. This was the precursor to the Pub Choir phenomenon.
Global Impact and Future Aspirations
From its humble beginnings, Pub Choir has grown into a global movement. Jorgensen has conducted sold-out shows in the US, collaborated with artists like Wheatus’s Brendan B. Brown, and led record-breaking sing-alongs.
Despite the scale of her success, the essence of Pub Choir remains unchanged: providing a space where everyone can sing without judgment. “We are all allowed to sing and to feel happy,” Jorgensen emphasizes. Her work continues to inspire, fostering a sense of community and joy through music.
As Jorgensen looks to the future, her mission remains clear: to spread the joy of communal singing across the globe, one pub at a time.
