Phil Beverley, Director of Music
Dear Parents and Guardians,
The Guitarists of Cranbrook joined Ascham School and Sydney Grammar on Monday evening for the annual Combined Guitar Soirée, this year hosted by Ascham School.
The joy and care on display, coupled with the camaraderie shown by this close-knit community, was a welcome contrast to the downpour outside. The tradition of guitar in the eastern suburbs is unlike any other, led by some of Australia’s most passionate and dedicated performers and educators. To all our Guitar Ensembles involved on the night – congratulations. A special mention goes to Oli Smith (Year 10) and Marcus Chun (Year 12), who were selected to perform solo works. Their performances were captivating and warmly received by both the audience and their peers. Bravissimo!
The dates for the HSC have now been released to Year 12 Music students, who are applying the finishing touches to their Compositions and Performances. This coming week, we will hold a series of Showcases highlighting the exceptional work of these students, and warmly invite all who wish to see a selection of their final presentations.
Senior Composition Showcase
Monday, 25 August, 6.30pm–8.00pm
Orchestra Room
Year 12 Performance Showcase
Wednesday, 27 August, 6.30pm–8.30pm
Orchestra Room
Spring Festival Music Solo Competition
More than just another eisteddfod, next week is a festival of solo music-making, where students across both campuses take to the stage to perform and give their best. Nothing worthwhile comes easily; it takes time, dedication, and perseverance over many years. Talent will only take you so far—it is the commitment to consistent improvement that builds excellence in both individuals and communities.
On Thursday, the Junior School will be transformed into a series of recital spaces featuring dedicated young musicians taking to the stage.
On Friday, commencing at 2.30pm, the Senior Campus will host 250 live soloists performing across nine venues throughout the School. Scattered around the campus entries, and next to each venue, QR codes will be available to scan for programmes, providing detailed lists of students and their performance locations. Each venue has been grouped by instrument family so that adjudicators can provide expert feedback. Students are required to remain within their allocated venue, but may step out during alternate sections. Supporting peers, and listening to the adjudicators’ feedback, is an essential part of the learning experience.
As parents and visitors, you are encouraged to review the programme via this links below and plan your concert day.
Our MAD (Music and Drama) Committee plays an instrumental role in supporting this event—not only financially, through the hiring of adjudicators and accompanists, but also by providing refreshments from 4.00pm onwards. If you would like to learn more about MAD or are considering volunteering, please email MADCranbrook@gmail.com
I look forward to welcoming you at our events next week.
Phil Beverley
Director of Music (P-12)