Music Matters
MUSIC MATTERS
What an exciting start we’ve had to 2026 in Music. Almost 100 new year 7s have taken up the opportunity to learn an instrument, which is nearly one in two year 7s at Doncaster enjoying the benefits of Music.
All of our ensembles have made excellent starts to their rehearsals with full attendances and high energy levels. Soundworks began their first rehearsals with over 55 members and Stringworks adding another 20 year 7s to their lineup at Turbo Day this week.
Speaking of Turbo Days. Every year we have a day dedicated to “turbo charging” our new year 7 instrumental students’ learning through intensive rehearsals, workshops, Music games and a concert to their peers. This week on Tuesday, Soundworks (Woodwind/Brass and Percussion) and Wednesday, Stringworks (Violins/Violas/Cellos and Double Basses) had days full of fun and learning. The instrumental staff were all very impressed with the focus and behaviour of the students and the outstanding achievements as a result. Both days concluded with performances to their Year 7 peers that were very well received. Below are two students’ reflections on the days and their involvement in the Music program so far.
Soundworks Turbo Day 2026
Stringworks Turbo Day 2026
Soundworks Turbo Day 2026—an unforgettable experience – by Ludwin Tarvand 7E
The third of March marked a special day for all Soundworks students. It was the Soundworks Turbo Day, a whole day dedicated towards music, practising and performing their instruments together, hosted by Mr Muddyman, Mr Dean, and the instrumental staff.
We learned and practised music for our instruments, together as an ensemble. We practised 7 pieces: 5 four-bar pieces, Hot Cross Buns, and C Minor Blues (which we played in E flat minor). During this, we grew our capabilities both to play our instrument and to perform as a team.
I used to play music all by myself, and I thought that was it. So when I went to Turbo Day, it gave me a whole new view of music. From the togetherness of the ensemble, to the sweet sound of music, I felt like there was a whole new world of music out there to be discovered.
During the third session, we split up into groups of their instruments. We met students in higher year levels who had previously done Soundworks with the same instrument as us. They answered any questions we had and helped us with our practice with helpful advice. Meeting with another student at this school who had the same passion for the instrument we played was an interesting experience, and made me feel more confident about Soundworks and the instrument.
But practising music wasn’t the only thing we did. In between lessons, we played music games together, in which my personal favourite was ‘Pass The Beat Around The Room’, where we took turns to say one of the words in ‘pass the beat around the room’, and if you made a mistake, you were out. This helped improve our team building skills as well as our rhythm skills.
And in the fifth session, we could finally put our hard work to use. The highlight of the day: we had to perform for the rest of the year seven cohort. We first all played together with our 4-bar pieces, then Hot Cross Buns. Then, for our grand finale, we played the C Minor Blues, featuring a drum lead-in, multiple instrument solos, and a great time for everyone. Playing in front of my peers and together with the ensemble was an experience like nothing else. Finishing up the song, I felt a sense of proudness, as I had achieved and learned new things all in a day.
For me, this Soundworks turbo day was one of the most fun experiences I’ve had. It could be because of the feeling when you all create a perfect symphony, or the satisfaction of learning new keys, or playing together with friends, or maybe all of them. Nevertheless, it was a wonderful experience to participate in.
If you don’t want to miss out, it’s not too late to join. You can still tell Mr Dean or Mr Muddyman and join in on the fun. Learning an instrument is a fun hobby, helps build responsibility, and is a good skill to learn.
My Experience in the Music Program – by Rocky Stramandinoli 7H
I have been very happy with the music program at doncaster secondary so far. When I went to the instrument trial day last year, I got to try all the instruments and decide what I wanted to choose for next year. It’s was a very hard decision because there was lots of good choices to choose from. I ended up choosing tenor saxophone and it has been really fun to play so far. At the beginning I couldn’t even blow a sound, now I’m playing hot cross buns like a pro!
The turbo day was very fun and I got to learn some new songs, when we played it all together with all the different instruments it sounded very nice. It made me feel happy that I learnt something new and I can’t wait to do more sound works in the future. I’m also excited for the camp in May.
I recommend playing an instrument at DSC because it’s very enjoyable and because it’s another way of making new friends at the school.
Soundworks Turbo Day - Alice Siddiqui 7E
At the beginning of the day, we played team based games and tried out simple songs. It was also my first time successfully holding a note on my trumpet. After recess, we split into different groups and continued practising. During that time, I learnt how to switch notes on my trumpet and even had a go at playing “Hot Cross Buns”.
In the last few sessions, we came back together and rehearsed everything we’d learnt. The final song we played was definitely my favourite. We played freestyle jazz together, and it honestly sounded great and it was the most fun to play!
At the very end of the day, we performed all the songs we had practised in front of the rest of the grade. I was nervous at first, but once we started playing, I felt a lot better. It felt unreal being up on the stage playing along with everyone else!
My Soundworks Turbo Day was genuinely the most fun and exciting day I’ve had so far in Year 7, I even enjoyed it more than camp! I’ve never been confident playing any instrument, and I was worried I’d be terrible at everything I tried, but I gained so much confidence with my instrument and learnt more than I could’ve imagined. This experience is something I’d absolutely love to do again.
Stringworks Turbo Day - Ellie Khaw – 7E
Stringworks Turbo Day would probably be one of the most exciting things that would happen in Term 1 of Year 7.
During the start of our day during period 1 and 2, Mr Verco started us off with rhythmical clapping, stomping and deep concentrating. Causing us to get our minds jumbled because of all the different rhythms and sounds. Rhythm is one of the most important parts of music. Without it, music and songs would be boring when it just relies on tempo, pitch, and the dynamics (how loud/soft). As we came back from recess, we started with playing with our instruments.
Throughout period 3 and 4, we did pizzicato (plucking the strings) and we used our bows. We went through a booklet called String Gym and we learnt a nice and fun song called Tap Dancer which involved stomping, pizzicato, and using our bows. The beginners played a simple part while some Year 8s and a few experienced Year 7s played the melody of the pieces.
At the end of the day during period 5, we went through 4 pieces. 3 in String Gym called Etude 1, Etude 2 and Etude 4. Then also playing the fantastic song, Tap Dancer. Around 2:45, The rest of the Year 7s came to the Performance Centre and saw us play. Our hearts pounding and having those nice smiles we see when we finish a piece.
Stringworks Turbo Day is an amazing memory to have. Introducing the beginners and maybe even some experienced people to playing with new people and playing in a group or orchestra!
Stringworks Turbo Day - Venelope Lee-Yanson 7E
Stringworks turbo day was a BLAST!! At the start of a normal school day, all the year 7 stringworks went down to the performance centre with all our string instruments. We barely doubted that we could all play and perform by the end of the day but guess what?? We did it! With lots of practice and help from the stringworks teachers, we all achieved what we thought was impossible. We all learnt how to listen to others' parts and cooperate with one another. Honestly, I wish that there would be another turbo day!!
SOUNDBLOOM MUSIC FEST 2027 – VIETNAM
Your music. A world stage. An unforgettable adventure with Global Learning Expeditions.
We have a really exciting opportunity for SCHOOL NAME music students to take part in an international youth music festival in Vietnam in 2027 — and it’s designed specifically for Australian high school music students, called SoundBloom Music Fest.
Next July 2027, you could be standing on the stage of the Vietnam National Academy of Music Concert Hall, lights up, audience silent, your school ensemble ready. This isn’t just another school concert — this is an international festival performance, sharing the program with leading orchestras including the Vietnam National Academy of Music Orchestra as well as other students from Australia & Vietnam!
Although it’s not a competition there will be prizes awarded throughout the festival and critique will be provided by leading musical professionals to help your musical journey.
And you won’t just perform once.You’ll rehearse on the main stage and perform three separate times across the festival— building confidence, representing your school, and experiencing what it feels like to perform on a true global platform.
But this tour is more than performances.
You’ll cruise overnight through the breathtaking limestone islands of Ha Long Bay —explore caves, climb for incredible 360° views, and even sing karaoke under the stars on the top deck.
You’ll explore Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, visit historic landmarks, experience French colonial architecture, and take part in the festival’s grand closing concert and awards ceremony at the magnificent Hai Phong Opera House.
You’ll connect with other Australian school ensembles, take part in workshops, and become part of an international community of young musicians.
This isn’t just a school trip.
It’s:
- Performing on an international stage
- Growing your confidence as a musician
- Strengthening your ensemble
- Experiencing a completely new culture
Creating memories and friendships that last long after school
In just 10 days, you’ll perform three times, visit UNESCO world heritage sites, explore one of Asia’s most vibrant cities, and represent your school in a professionally run international youth music festival.
Opportunities like this don’t come around often.
2027 Vietnam Senior Music Tour Information Evening - Monday 23rd March 6-7pm – Performance Centre and Online
The Music department are hoping to take our senior ensembles to Vietnam in 2027. The Tour Company, Global Learning Expeditions (GLE) are running a Music Festival in Hanoi called “Soundbloom”. 350 Australian Music students will be travelling to Hanoi in the first week of the July school holidays for 10 days. Melbourne Youth Orchestra will also be there along with the Hanoi Music Academy Orchestra. It promises to be an amazing experience.
If your child plays an instrument at the school and currently is in Concert Band, Wind Symphony, second year Stringworks, String Orchestra or Junior or Senior Jazz Bands, you are invited to attend an information evening on Monday 23rd March from 6-7pm. It will be held at the Performance Centre and also online via zoom.
Even if you don’t think you can afford such a trip, come along and hear all about it and the fundraising ideas we have to help get as many students to experience this incredible opportunity as possible.