UPDATE: Music director John Foreman has revealed how a chance encounter with comedy legend Bert Newton at just 19 years old transformed his career. Foreman’s reflections come as he gears up for an exciting new concert series with the Australian Pops Orchestra, set to launch on October 10, 2025.
Foreman, now 53, recalls the life-changing moment vividly. “It was just a live gig with Bert and Patti Newton and some young performers,” he shared. “I was playing on a slightly out-of-tune piano when Bert walked past and said, ‘I think I might have a TV gig for you, mate.'” That spontaneous remark led to Foreman becoming the musical director for Newton’s show, Good Morning Australia, and marked the beginning of his ascent in the entertainment industry.
His journey has been remarkable. From his start at Newton’s side, Foreman became the first musical director for Australian Idol and has collaborated on numerous prestigious events, including Channel 9’s Carols by Candlelight and the ABC’s Australia Day Concert. He’s even written music for the Sydney Olympics Opening Ceremony, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Now, as the promoter and producer of the holiday concert series, Foreman is keen to put his unique stamp on the Australian Pops Orchestra. “This year’s inaugural concert series includes three new events to complement our beloved New Year’s Eve Gala,” he announced.
The first concert, The Great Christmas Singalong, will feature the acclaimed Silvie Paladino, known as the “Queen of Christmas,” performing alongside a 40-piece orchestra and a 1,000-voice choir. Foreman expressed excitement about the event, stating, “When you’ve got 1,000 voices singing, it can be spine-tingling and beautiful.”
Following this, the series will include They Sang at Carnegie Hall, featuring singer Bernadette Robinson, who will pay tribute to icons like Barbra Streisand and Judy Garland. Another concert will celebrate former Australian Idol contestants, including Casey Donovan, Rob Mills, and Paulini, performing nostalgic Broadway tunes.
Foreman noted, “These three shows are brand new and we hope they’ll become Melbourne traditions.” The upcoming New Year’s Eve and The Day Before Gala concerts will showcase stellar performances from artists such as Marina Prior and Lucy Durack, who will appear as themselves, allowing them to connect more authentically with the audience.
Foreman hopes to see the new concerts embraced as annual fixtures in Melbourne’s vibrant arts scene. “We want people to come into the city during the festive season, enjoy great music, and create memories with family and friends,” he stated.
Tickets for the series go on sale on October 10, 2025, at apoconcerts.com. With excitement building, Foreman’s journey from a young performer to a prominent figure in Australia’s music industry underscores the power of seizing opportunities.
Stay tuned for further updates as Foreman prepares to launch this much-anticipated concert series, promising an unforgettable experience for music lovers across Melbourne.
