Music Notes

I was inspired by a moment this week that really captures the spirit of what it is to not only be student at St Catherine’s, but also a music student. 

On a wet and windy afternoon, as I hurried in between showers down St Catherine’s Walk for the Jorgensen Orchestra rehearsal in the Junior School Auditorium, I heard a student say a very polite, “Hello Mr Blakiston”, as she scurried past to get to the rehearsal. 

Upon my arrival, that same student was already at the piano, ready for the downbeat of the 3rd movement of Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A Minor. Without so much as a warm-up, she proceeded to masterfully perform the virtuosic and demanding work. This student would have had a full day of academic classes, but at that moment all other concerns were pushed aside, and her focus was on the task at hand. The joy and love of music was evident in every note and heard by all, so much so that the orchestra burst into spontaneous applause at the end of the piece. 

Comparatively, many professionals would have spent their day preparing, while our student was able to perform this piece with a myriad of things that all our students do every day. The encouragement and support of all around her gave her the confidence to do that which very few can do, without losing sight of what it means to be a member of our community. 

Does it get any more St Catherine’s than this? 

Upcoming events

Jazz Night

For those interested in performing a solo at this year's Jazz Night, please click here to register for auditions.

We are again looking forward to welcoming Mina Yu and her band to accompany this year’s soloists.

Mr Francis Blakiston

Head of Music