Director of Music P-12
In a world where AI is now able to mimic or reappropriate most human endeavours, there is an increasing need to really define what the phenomenon of music is, and indeed what it means to humanity.
I believe that Music is only of value to the extent of its meaning. (Also noting John Cage’s provocation ‘I have nothing to say. And I am saying it’). Additionally, we pursue musical excellence not for excellence’s sake, but because it has the ability to amplify or diminish the message being presented.
On Tuesday night at our Gala Concert our students, teachers, support staff and the Santa Sabina community – all Voices of Hope – said something important. Our students shone; were determined and excellent, but most critically, their music was significant because it meant something. They raised their voice and rendered their sounds with a focused intention, and the outcome was beautiful.
I am filled with awe, and loved musing with Gioia House students on Wednesday… ‘Isn’t it mind-boggling that there are people in our community whose Wednesday is now going better – because last night they watched YOU breathe into a silver pipe, while SHE rubbed horse hair on a string over a wooden box…!?’
Though bafflingly earthy sounds, when made in the direction of a shared sound, become one of the wonders of the world, and undoubtedly one of the most exquisite of human experiences.
Long may music be a gift through which the divine can reach us; and through which we can reach for the divine.
Gala Concert
Enjoy this slideshow of images of our 600 Voices of Hope raised together at the Sydney Town Hall on Tuesday 24 June 2025.
Director’s Honour Roll
As we wrap up Semester 1, we commend the students below for the following achievements:
| Dana Park (Year 8) | Sydney Eisteddfod – French Horn | 3rd Place Medal |
| Jemya Choi (Year 8) | Grade 3 AMEB Examination – Pianoforte | Honours |
| Aiden Curran (Year 6) | Grade 4 AMEB Examination – Musicianship | Honours |
| Skylar Di (Year 2) | Grade 1 AMEB Examination – Pianoforte | Credit |
| Romee Lee (Year 5) | Sydney Eisteddfod – Trombone | Honourable Mention |
| Alannah Mousu (Year 3) | Grade 5 AMEB Examination – Violin | High Distinction |
| Charlotte Stanhope (Year 8) | Grade 3 AMEB Examination – Singing (Classical) | High Distinction |
| Sienna Di Santo (Year 10) | Grade 3 AMEB Examination –Singing (Music Theatre) | Honours |
| Lucy Cordony Jones (Year 11) | Grade 8 AMEB Examination –Singing (Music Theatre) | Credit |
| Lucy Cordony Jones (Year 11) | St Joseph’s College Musical ‘Twelfth Night’ | Female Lead |
| Sofia Prevezanos (Year 10) | Sydney Eisteddfod – Contemporary Voice | 3rd Place Medal |
Semester 2 Invoices (Automatic Rollover)
While Semester 1 is in the process of being reconciled, a reminder that all Music programs and enrolments ROLL OVER automatically, and invoices will be issued to parent inboxes in coming weeks. Though there is a different process for seasonal sport enrolments, Music enrolments do not require you to re-register with each new semester.
If intending to withdraw from a levied Music Program, a reminder that four weeks advance notice is required or else a withdrawal fee of the equivalent amount is applicable. If you intend to discontinue, please advise us formally via this ‘Notice of Change’ form.
Semester 2 Invoices must be settled no later than Wednesday 23 July – ready for the commencement of Term 3.
Have a lovely break!
Wishing all in our community a safe and refreshing mid-year holiday.
We look forward to seeing you for a wonderful second half of the year!
Amy Richardson
Director of Music P-12
music@ssc.nsw.edu.au
