Secondary Music

Rockband and SALT

Our Rockband and SALT program is off to an exciting start this term! We've welcomed many new students, especially from Year 7 and 8, who are bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to our worship-focused ensemble. It's wonderful to see these young musicians developing their vocal abilities, honing their instrumental skills, and exploring audio technology.

Our senior students have truly stepped up, taking on mentoring roles to guide and encourage our newer members. While there have been some challenges as everyone learns the ropes of performing together, I'm impressed by the perseverance and courage our students show in facing these obstacles. The spirit of collaboration and growth in our band is truly inspiring.

As we continue to practice and grow together, I'm confident we'll create powerful, uplifting music that glorifies God and enriches our school community. Thank you for your support of your children's musical journey.

Classroom Music

This term, our Year 7 students have embarked on an exciting journey exploring various orchestral instruments. They have also been diligently working on their keyboard skills, focusing on understanding harmonic accompaniment roles in music. Additionally, they have been introduced to common chord structures found in many songs, laying a solid foundation for their musical education and opening up opportunities to learn new pieces.

Year 8 students have delved into the vibrant and dynamic world of Caribbean music. They have studied the essential elements of genres such as Calypso and Reggae, gaining a deeper appreciation for these culturally rich musical styles. This exploration has broadened their musical horizons and enriched their understanding of global music traditions.

Our Year 9 and 10 students have been engaged in a comprehensive study aimed at developing their aural skills and understanding and recognising complex chords. They have learned about chord construction and the various contexts in which they can be used. Moreover, they have explored the impact of tonal quality on the emotive quality of music. This term, they have worked on both solo and ensemble pieces, honing their performance skills and collaborative musicianship.

We are proud of the dedication and progress shown by all our students and look forward to their continued musical growth.

Excursion to the Festival of Voices

On Friday 28 June, Mr Nguyen and Mrs de Lacy accompanied 23 students to a special event hosted by the Festival of Voices. We visited the beautiful Hobart Town Hall, a place many of our students had not seen before. They were amazed by the stunning decorative architecture and excellent acoustics of the building.

At the event, we were warmly welcomed by the hosts and had the privilege of meeting Dr Anthony Trecek-King. Dr Trecek-King is an inspiring musician, composer, and educator with extensive international experience. He connected exceptionally well with our students, sharing his knowledge and passion for music.

Our SCC students participated enthusiastically throughout the day, singing songs that Dr Trecek-King planned. They returned energised and excited about the experience. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the parents who encouraged their children to attend, even though some students were initially nervous and unsure of what to expect. Despite the busy school assessment period, every student left the event thrilled to have been a part of it.

Mr Andy Nguyen

Secondary Music Teacher

Student Reflections:

"I loved the Choral Workshop because it taught me how to look at singing in a different way, by understanding what the lyrics mean to me and by singing out. Thank you for making that happen, it was so much fun!"

– Isaac Towns, Year 7 

"I found this workshop extremely enjoyable, the song choices were unique and diverse, which I thought was a huge highlight.  The workshop was not serious, but instead was laidback and something that all ages would've enjoyed. The place where the workshop was held was on its own a beautiful place that had history written all over it.

I personally do not like to sing with others, but I can't deny that this was an enlightening experience which has made me more eager to go to workshops like this in the future."

– Amie Maclean, Year 7

"On Friday, the 28th of June, some students from years 7 to 11 had the opportunity to participate in a choral workshop. This event was run by The Festival of Voices. When we arrived, we met Dr Anthony Trecek (Dr Tk) who was running the event. Dr Tk has done so many incredible things in his lifetime, it would probably take me a 3,000-word essay to sum it all up for you. In the short time we were there, we learnt 3 songs. I loved how you didn’t have to know a thing about music or being in a choir to join in! When we first learnt the songs, we just started off with the basic words and then gradually added harmonies to pull together these soulful songs. A key point I retained from this workshop was to sing with passion. If you sing with passion, it will improve a song’s ‘pizazz’ and make it overall a better sounding piece.

I am so grateful that I was able to be part of this amazing workshop experience and am praying that there will be one again next year."

– Thion Leary, Year 7