Junior Ensembles Concert

Congratulations to everyone who contributed to the success of the Junior Ensembles Concert held on Wednesday, 2nd July. The evening was a true celebration of musical talents, featuring outstanding performances from all Year 7 Band and Strings groups, Extension Strings, Junior Choir, and the Intermediate Stage Band. With over 200 students taking part, the concert was a showcase of our school’s musical community.

For our Year 7 students, this concert marked their very first performance—a testament to their dedication, hard work, and countless hours of rehearsals and practice since the start of the year. The enthusiasm and joy shared by both the performers and the audience created an unforgettable atmosphere.

Thank you to our incredible Performing Arts staff for their unwavering commitment to preparing the students for this special night. We also extend our gratitude to the AV and facilities teams for ensuring everything ran smoothly behind the scenes.

Well done to all involved. It was a wonderful way to end the term!

Here is a reflection from Year 7 student Daniel:

Nerves and excitement echoed throughout the hall as they sat down and prepared to play their instruments. The bright lights shone down on the performers. This was the night of Wednesday 2 July, a night that the Year 7 participants of junior ensembles would never forget, as it was their first ever ensembles concert. 

The Year 7 Combined Concert Band commenced the event with the pieces ‘Centurion’ by Mark Williams and ‘Shine’ by Rob Grice. They were conducted by Ms Tracy Videon and Mr Paschal Lee. Even though it was their first time, they performed with enthusiasm and focus, delighting the crowd with their energetic opening pieces. 

Next came another level of experience, with the Year 7 Extension Strings. This group was more advanced as they had previously learned their instruments outside of school. They played the piece ‘Mamba Samba’ by Keith Sharp and was conducted by Ms Clare Bugeja. They performed with precision and dedication, showing their proficiency. 

After the Extension Strings, the mood shifted to the spirited voices of the Junior Singers. The talented group was directed by Ms Laura Main and they sang ‘Why We Sing’ by Greg Gilpin and ‘Roar’ by Katy Perry, arranged by Roger Emerson. Their joyful vocals harmonized throughout the hall, providing the audience with a spectacular performance.

The stage was then passed on to the Year 7 Combined String Orchestra, who were conducted by Mr Michael Lee. Although it was also their first time, they performed their pieces ‘Olga Square Dance’ by Pat Legg and ‘First Scale March’ by Mark Williams with great expression and technique.

To end the night, the Intermediate Stage Band, consisting of Year 10 to Year 12 students, performed ‘Shiny Stockings’ by Frank Foster, arranged by Sammy Nestico, ‘Strollin’ by Nick Mulder and ‘1-800-Got-Funk’ by Vince Gassi. They were directed by Mr Stuart Byrne and performed with great expertise and artistry. 

In conclusion, the students performed exceptionally well and should be incredibly proud of themselves. Many thanks to Ms Megan Papworth, Head of Performing Arts and the two Instrumental Music Managers, Ms Clare Bugeja and Mr Dmitry Serebrianik, as well as all the other Performing Arts staff for their efforts preparing students for this concert. This performance marked not only the culmination of every student’s hard work, but also the beginning of many musical journeys ahead. 

Daniel X, Year 7