MUSIC

Melbourne Ska Orchestra (MSO) visit

Nationally renowned group, Melbourne Ska Orchestra, came to Cairns to begin their world tour on 16 August. Five of thei members led a workshop at Saints with the College Big Band. Students worked on their performance techniques and learnt about the musical style of Ska. The group's leader, Nicky Bomba, worked closely with our overall sound and gave some great advice to our rhythm section.

That evening, the Saints Big Band was invited to perform on stage at the Tanks during the MSO gig. Students performed Letter to Rudi with the band and were invited back onstage at the finale. The boys had a wonderful time at the concert and on stage. We thank the orchestra for their kindness and generosity in giving our students such a wonderful experience.

Bishop's ordination

Nine of our most senior choristers were honoured to be asked to sing at the episcopal ordination of Bishop Joe Caddy AM at the cathedral on 15 August, the feast of the Assumption. Students rehearsed for over 10 hours in preparation and sang beautifully at the ceremony which was live streamed around the country. It was a unique experience for our students who are most grateful for the opportunity.

Annie Jr excursion

Our Year 7 Drama and Music rotation classes attended St Mary’s excellent production of Annie Jr last week. The students were highly entertained by wonderful singing and dancing as well as a real dog! It was a perfect opportunity for our youngest students to see live performances and what could be possible for them in just a few years when Saints do their next musical.

Upcoming events

As the term comes to a close, we still have a few performances and activities left. Combined Colleges instrumental music (IM) workshops took place during today's pupil-free day. This was an opportunity for our most junior students to benefit from extra rehearsals and time with teachers to improve their playing alongside members of our primary school IM program. Some of our more senior players assisted and mentored the juniors. The day culminated with a concert in Lennon Hall this afternoon as well as some performances at the St Joseph’s fete. 

Performing arts photos will be taken on Wednesday 4 September in Lennon Hall. All combined groups will be photographed before school in their performance blacks – Saints groups shortly thereafter. A schedule has been released on Teams. Saints Unplugged –

Senior is on Thursday 5 September in L105.

Spirit of Arts Award

This award has been developed to recognise the work our arts students put into the College and wider community. It also serves as an encouragement for those students to take it a step further by mentoring younger students or organising an event themselves. The application is available on the student portal or a hard copy can be obtained from the Arts/Music Department staffroom. If your son has exhibited artwork, entered work in a film festival, participated in the musical, sits external exams, performs at Eisteddfod etc, he is eligible to apply.

2024

Information for events and performances can be found on the Arts Department Facebook page. There will be information in the newsletter and parent slips sent out. Below is a calendar of events planned so far. This is added to during the year, so please reread it in each newsletter to check that you are abreast of all that his happening.

Term 3

Term 4