Melissa Kenny

Melissa’s performance career spans an extraordinary range of styles and collaborations—from early music with The Renaissance Players to gypsy jazz with Monsieur Camembert, from classical choral work with Cantillation to children’s entertainment with Musica Viva in Schools and The Wiggles. Equally at home with Bach or The Beatles, she brings passion and versatility to every musical setting. 

As founder and Artistic Director of Soulfood a Cappella, Melissa leads a vibrant 50-voice choir known for its original arrangements of soul, Motown, and pop classics.  

In 2024, Soulfood celebrated its 20th anniversary with a landmark win in the Open Pop Choir category at the World Choir Games in Auckland, New Zealand. The group is also a four-time winner of the John Lamble Australasian Open Choral Championship and has performed extensively across Australia, including appearances on national TV and radio. Their upcoming third album, Songs from Our Backyard, showcases all-Australian repertoire arranged by Melissa and fellow choir members. 

Melissa is a sought-after clinician and guest lecturer, having led workshops and classes for the NSW Department of Education, Festival of Voices and the Sydney Conservatorium of Music amongst others. She has conducted massed choirs for the From the Steps event at the Sydney Opera House and directed their Big Heart Sing program. In the past 5 years she has held a regular conducting position with Hummingsong Choirs, Sydney Voices, Scots College, and Epping Boys High School. 

Whether working with seasoned professionals or enthusiastic beginners, adults or children, Melissa brings joy, energy, and a deep love of music to every rehearsal and performance. Her mission is simple: to help people everywhere experience the transformative power of making music together.