BPS Band 

Wow, what a fabulous Semester and Year we have had. All our ensembles have performed at assemblies, our Concert Band gave a superb performance at the VSMF (Victorian Schools Music Festival) gaining Outstanding comments from both adjudicators, I was very proud to be associated with them as they were true ambassadors for the school.

Blackburn High School 'Play-In Day'

The kids of the Symphonic Band had a “Ball” at the recent workshop at Blackburn High School. 

Evening of Music

Many, many thanks to all our helpers at the recent “Evening of Music Concert.” Their assistance was greatly appreciated, and it would not have been the success it was without them. A special mention to Lisa, Kate and Simone and all the staff members who gave up their time to be there and help with the smooth running of this event. All the Ensembles that performed that night were amazing, a special night which was filled with joy, laughter and lots of entertainment. Well Done to Everyone!

AMEB examinations

We have had several students do external AMEB (Australian Music Examination Board) examinations successfully, Flute and Brass students gaining A’s, our congratulations to all these students.

Band Recruitment Night

At our recent Recruitment Night, we had a tremendous turn out of parents and students, culminating in a fantastic night and an exceptional response to students wanting to participate in our 2026 Band Program, I am pleased to say we have had over 40 students who will start their musical journey with us next year. All looks great for the Band Program's future development. Thanks to staff and instrumental students for their assistance on the evening.

Pre-loved instruments needed!

We have a list of new students who are looking to purchase second-hand instruments following a very successful Band Recruitment Night. 

Do you know of anyone who has an instrument sitting in their cupboard, no longer being used? Please contact Kate Heng on bps.friendsoftheband@gmail.com  Kate is happy to be a point of contact between sellers and buyers, however, will not be participating in price negotiations. 

Instruments for Sale 

We currently have 2 CLARINETS, 1 PERCUSSION KIT and 1 ACOUSTIC GUITAR available for sale. Please contact Kate Heng on bps.friendsoftheband@gmail.com 

Band Polo Tees - Donation Request

Do you have a black band polo top that you no longer require and would be happy to donate? If so, it would be very much appreciated if you could please drop it off to the office for the Friends of the Band. Many thanks!

Acknowledgements

As we continue our countdown to the end of 2025, I would like to thank all our Grade 6 music students for all their help, assistance and “just been great students over the years.”

We shall really miss you all, and wish you the very best in all your future musical endeavours,

Please don’t forget us.

To Kate and the “Parents and friends of the Band”, without your help and assistance and fund raising we would not be able to keep the program running. A very successful Year, Thank You for everything you have done this year. I look forward to continuing working with Kate and hopefully some new faces to assist in keeping our program going from strength-to-strength next year.

It has given me so much pleasure and enjoyment working with Lisa this year, she is a tireless,

compelling and utter fastidious worker, who never ever stops thinking and trying to improve students’ involvement in our fantastic music program. Thank you for all your efforts and commitment.

To Andrew and Marianne, without your continued support and guidance our Band Program would not be a successful and flourishing enterprise. We all wish Andrew all the very best in his new role, and please don’t forget us, you are most welcome anytime to pay us a visit.

We are losing Justin Zheng, our percussion specialist at the end of the year. He has given our students an insight into what percussion playing is all about, not just “Banging something”. He will be sadly missed. Good luck Justin on your upcoming position at your new school.

Finally, to all our fabulous Instrumental Music staff, we are very fortunate in selecting and retaining competent, experienced and expert educators at the school.

All our Instrumental music staff wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 

SEE YOU ALL IN 2026!

BPS Instrumental Music Staff 2025

• Ken MacDonald - Band Co-ordinator, Trumpet and Trombone teacher, Concert Band and Symphonic Band Director
• Adrienne Garneau – Clarinet and Saxophone teacher, Training Band Director
• Alwaynne Strentz - Acoustic & Bass Guitar teacher, Guitar Ensemble Director
• Jake Underwood - Acoustic Guitar teacher, Novice Guitar Ensemble Director
• Jirene Beh - Flute teacher 
• Flora Carbo - Clarinet and Saxophone teacher
• Justin Zheng - Percussion teacher 

Yours musically,

Ken Mac - Band Coordinator(Wed, Thurs, Fri)

Lisa Shacklock - Band Liaison (Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri)