She Makes a Difference: A Moving Celebration of 140 Years of MLC School
The 2026 Town Hall Concert, She Makes a Difference, was a powerful and deeply moving celebration of MLC School’s 140-year history. Held in the iconic Sydney Town Hall, the concert honoured generations of students, Old Girls and staff who have helped shape the School’s musical story, while also showcasing the extraordinary talent, confidence and artistry of current MLC School musicians. From the opening moments, the evening captured the spirit of community, belonging and excellence that has long been at the heart of Music at MLC School.
Audience members described the concert as one of the most memorable and emotionally resonant school performances they had experienced. Many remarked on the variety and quality of the program, the maturity and sincerity of the performances, and the thoughtful way in which each item contributed to the broader theme. Some highlights included the brilliance of our solo performers, the expressive strength of the Chamber Choir, the poignancy of the Year 12 students, and the joy of seeing young musicians perform with assurance and pride. The program moved seamlessly across styles, ensembles and generations, reflecting the breadth of MLC School’s music program and the depth of its musical culture.
One of the most significant features of the evening was the presence of the Old Girls’ Union Choir and Old Girl musicians; their involvement created a tangible sense of continuity between past and present. The sight of current students sharing the stage with Old Girls reminded the audience that music at MLC School is a living tradition that connects generations. For many in attendance, these moments were enjoyed with tears of nostalgia and pride. The concert embraced the School’s history while looking confidently toward the future.
The success of She Makes a Difference was a testament to the quality of the Music Department. Students and staff worked tirelessly behind the scenes through rehearsals, stage management, programming and planning to bring an uplifting event to life with obvious joy from all performers.
The Music department would like to thank Community Relations for their help on the printed program and providing images of past students and school life; Tim Lennon for delivering a moving voice-over on the indigenous initiatives throughout the school’s history; Archie Todd in our IT department for help with video productions played during the concert; and all of our wonderful staff who generously helped out with managing buses, transporting students and helping to supervise students before and during the concert.
Above all, the concert will be remembered as a generous gift to the MLC School community; a celebration of talent, history, character and connection. A tribute to 140 years of young women walking in the light and making a difference.
You can view photos from this event on our Facebook page