Phil Beverley, Director of Music

Dear Parents and Caregivers

Performance Plus Value Add
This term’s Performance Plus masterclass was unique, flipping the learning in more ways than one. The dynamic trio of Mr Martyn Hentschel, Mr Christopher Hayles and Mr Anthony Pasquill were given the task of executing the music in the way our students wanted. Led by Dr Elizabeth Scott who worked with the students to ensure the staff were kept on their toes, and enhancing the way in which we think about preparation for performance. Taking a step back and looking at the intent of what students are going to do on stage adds such a rich character to their final performance.

Elective Music on Excursion
On May 6th, Year 10 students embarked on a cultural and musical excursion to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music for a practical Balinese Gamelan workshop. After a scenic ferry ride and walk from Circular Quay, we were welcomed by the vibrant sound of a trumpet before diving straight into the workshop. Led by instructor Belinda Smith, this workshop introduced us to the rich traditions and cultural background of Gamelan music and its unique set of instruments, in which we learned how to play. As an ensemble, we all shared the equal struggle of learning the interlocking rhythmic patterns that are so prominent within Gamelan music–challenging at first, but ultimately a fun and rewarding experience that allowed us to have better adaptability, hand coordination and a better overall understanding of how the textural layers are present but different from western, jazz or classical music that we were so familiar with. This hands-on workshop ties in perfectly with our topic “Music of Culture,” aiming to understand the different musical structures and elements of many other cultures and expressing these through our personal choices as composers when we will make our own Gamelan-inspired pieces of music. This day offered many valuable insights into the cultural and textural elements of Gamelan music, making it both an educational and memorable experience.
Ming Zhang
Music Elective Student Year 10

Schedule of Key Music Events

Week 4: Wednesday 21 May	Jazz Night – (6.30pm – 9pm) Packer Theatre
Week 5: Monday 26 May	AMPED – “She Will Rock You” two shows (6pm and 7.30pm – until 9pm) The Factory Theatre
Week 6: Wednesday 4 June	Soirée – Orchestra Room (6.30pm – 8pm)
Week 8: Monday 15 June	Showcase Concert – (7pm – 9pm) Sydney Town Hall
Week 8: Thursday 19 June	Krokodiloes (6.30pm) Theatre

Warm Regards

Phil Beverley
Director of Music