Jack Stack - State Schools Spectacular

On 29 August 29 I was the lead Showstyle Tenor in the drumline for the amazing Victorian State School Spectacular 2026 titled “This is me.”

The Victorian State School Spectacular is one of the largest performing arts events in Australia. Students get to work with award winning and some of the highest regarded industry experts in Australia.

The event was held at John Cain Arena and there was whopping 12,000 in the audience over both shows, the evening show was a sellout!

It took a lot of practice and commitment over several months, but it was 100% worth it. The week before the show I was in John Cain practicing every day and I really got to know the drumline and a heap of the other performers who auditioned just like me from all over Victoria, which was a real highlight for me.

I would highly recommend others to get involved next year because it is an incredible experience and something I will remember and cherish for the rest of my life.

Jack Stack Year 7

Book Week

Instrumental Music staff and students were delighted to join in on the Book Week celebrations. The theme, "Symphony of Stories" explores how different voices, characters, emotions and experiences come together to create one harmonious whole - much like our different instruments in ensembles forming a symphony.

Annual Music Concert - a memorable and uplifting night of music...

Instrumental Music students proudly worked together for their teachers in their ensembles to showcase to their families and friends, their growth in learning, confidence and technical progress.

Thank you to all who attended to encourage the students - their diligent individual practice at home and attendance to their IM lesson and/or ensemble, brings a full-bodied sound to life, which everyone enjoyed.

With thanks to our supportive audience, we have also begun purchasing necessary equipment from the funds raised on this night - Guitar students assembled the racks this week and a new class set of headphones have arrived to support student learning.

Our Year 12 Instrumental Music students, Samantha, Lauren and Evi were acknowledged as this was one of the last times they will perform together with their ensemble. We wish them all the very best as their attention turns to the upcoming exams.

Upcoming Performances/Events

The Arts & Technology Exhibition - Opening night Monday 12 October, 6 pm
Try Out/Meet and Greet IM Teachers night for Grade 6 students and Berwick students - (select IM students to support) - Tuesday 10 November - Session 1 - 4:00 - 5:00 pm or Session 2 - 5:15 - 6:15 pm
Dandenong Show Performance - Symphonic Band - Saturday 14 November, further details TBC
Summer Soiree - Wednesday 18 November 6:30 pm
Grade 6 Parent Information Evening - Monday 7 December 6 pm

Enrichment Opportunities

Join the Melbourne Youth Orchestras Ensemble Program

The renowned Melbourne Youth Orchestras (MYO) Ensemble Program has been enriching the lives of young Victorian musicians for over 50 years.

In the MYO Ensemble Program, you’ll join young musicians from 8 to 25 years of age to rehearse and explore music on Saturday and Sundays during school terms.

Three symphony orchestras, five string orchestras, three symphonic bands, two jazz orchestras and the Adaptive Music Bridging Program cater to all ages and levels. With a team of vibrant and energetic conductors and the support of our team of talented educators, you will extend your musical skills by playing exciting music and having unforgettable performance experiences.

For more information: Ensemble Program - Melbourne Youth Orchestras

Melbourne Recital Centre's Accelerando Program

Just a reminder that applications for Melbourne Recital Centre’s 2027 Accelerando program are due today. This free year-long music advancement program for instrumentalists, electronic artists, and vocalists of any genre – from Years 11-12 in Government Schools – will close on Friday 18 September 2026. More information can be found at melbournerecital.com.au/industry/young-artists/accelerando

Melbourne Youth Orchestras Summer School 2027

All young musicians, aged 7-25 are welcome to participate in the program.

Join over 800 young musicians at the University of Melbourne Southbank Campus from Monday 11 January to Saturday 16 January for the Melbourne Youth Orchestras 2027 Summer School.

This inspirational week features daily rehearsals across Symphony Orchestras, String Orchestras, Symphonic Bands, and Jazz Orchestras for all skill levels, alongside engaging workshops, surprise guests, and celebratory concerts.

We are thrilled to announce Special Guest artists Roscoe James Irwin (trumpet) and Neda Rahmani (percussion), from The Cat Empire will be joining us at the 2027 Summer School!

Expand your technique, explore new repertoire, and make unforgettable musical discoveries in the heart of Melbourne's arts precinct.

As 2027 marks MYO's 60th anniversary, the week will also carry a special celebratory flair, with extra events throughout.

Read more and apply here: https://myo.org.au/programs/summer-school/

Instrumental Music Staff

The Arts and Technologies

You are warmly invited!