Generations in Jazz

Donvale Christian College again proved to be a school buzzing with musical energy and brilliance at Generations in Jazz (GiJ) 2024. It was an absolute delight to attend the  Mount Gambier festival with 89 students across seven ensembles. 

All our students were simply amazing. Supporting each other, celebrating their own and one another's successes, and entering into the spirit of the weekend, which is all about making and enjoying music and community. 

The festival, curated by none other than Melbourne's leading music educator and performer, Jordan Murray - who took the reigns from legendary jazz maestro James Morrison - is a melting pot of musical happenings and success. Every year it draws thousands of young musicians from schools across Australia to compete and celebrate music, particularly in all things jazz.

In the Division 1 Big Band category, DCC proudly claimed their spot among the top contenders, earning a commendable fourth place. Their performance, infused with energy, precision, and individual brilliance from four of its members, captivated audiences and judges alike, showcasing the depth of talent within their ranks.

Our Division 4 Big Band once again made their mark, securing a well-deserved equal third place. Their dedication and artistry shone through, particularly in a beautiful flugelhorn solo from Claire Cox, securing her a position in the Division 4 Superband. 

But it wasn't just in the larger ensembles where Donvale excelled. In Division 2, the Small Jazz Combo, led by Josh Manusama, proved their versatility and finesse, clinching the second spot just behind Wesley College from South Australia. Their performance was a testament to the skill and synergy of each member, as well as to their hard work over many years of rehearsing and developing the art of improvisation. 

Donvale's esteemed vocal director, Mel Searle, continues to lead our vocal ensembles to new heights. Kicking off the day, in Division 3 the Intermediate Vocal Ensemble placed fourth, while our Advanced Vocal Ensemble, performing in the largest section of the festival - Division 2 Large Ensemble - placed tenth in a group of 32 schools. Just so superb - thank you.

In the Division 1 Small Vocal Ensemble category,  Donvale's Altonatives soared once again, narrowly missing out on a podium finish, securing fourth place just behind Wesley College, Ruyton Girls' School, and Yarra Valley Grammar. Their harmonies resonated through the auditorium, leaving audiences spellbound and judges nodding in admiration. 

As the festival drew to a close, Donvale Christian College emerged not only as contenders in each category but also as a school with a great music culture of inclusivity and musical excellence, particularly in the jazz scene.

As James Morrison describes the festival:

Generations in Jazz is not just about competition; it's about fostering a love for jazz music and nurturing the next generation of musicians.