Phil Beverley, Director of Music

The past two weeks has seen hundreds of students show tremendous dedication, commitment, and grit, in preparing, rehearsing and collaborating in order to take the stage and give there all. At the core of our musical offering is a desire to provide authentic experiences that push students to achieve their very best. The commitment and dedication shown by the students who have participated in the Jazz Night and AMPED! shows what real leadership looks like and epitomises our school motto, Esse Quam Videri. On the stage, you have nowhere to hide and in live performance, there are no re-takes. It’s authentic risk taking, raw, real, and based on the performances over the past two weeks, loads of fun.

The ambience of the candle lit seating and a bar setup by our incredible MAD committee helped set the scene and create the right vibe for last week’s Jazz Night. The improvisational skills of soloists including Fergus Jones, Liam Crowe, Wesley Woodhouse, Ty Imtarnasan, John Marias and Julian Baggett were sophisticated and refined. Together with brilliant performances by our two Stage Bands and the Contemporary Guitar ensemble, our young musicians showed a real depth of talent on the night.  A special treat was hearing Dave Panichi’s Big Band perform a selection of his new compositions. It always a pleasure to champion Australian Music at its best.

One week on, 34 Cranbrook rock bands hit the stage at the Factory Theatre Marrickville for an unforgettable night of contemporary music. This year’s AMPED! focussed on the “Oz Rock Icons” – the best of Aussie rock. From Chisel to Crowded House, Noiseworks to the Hilltop Hoods (and even a cheeky appearance from the Wiggles) – Tuesday night’s show had it all. The 500 strong crowd cheered, clapped and sang along for a staggering 3 and ¾ hours of the absolute best tunes from the Oz rock canon. Although we said farewell to four Year 12 bands this year –  who played their final show, it was clear that the Year 7 bands that are taking their place are more than up for the challenge of filling those very big shoes. Thank you to all the parents who attended, the staff and students who helped make such an event happen, and the amazingly talented Cranbrook boys who took to the stage. It was rock ‘n’ roll – turned up to 11.

We have much to do in the coming weeks and with over 700 students involved in the Town Hall concert in Week 9 we need to ensure that the capacity and dedication shown over the past 2 weeks continues with all our young musicians. The humblest among us can lead by example and I am so proud to see so many individuals doing just that on a weekly basis.

With thanks

Phil Beverley
Director of Music