The Arts Bulletin

Opera Queensland

We are delighted to continue our valued partnership with Opera Queensland, highlighted by a highly successful week of masterclasses and workshops for our choristers.

Last week, members of our Ragazzi and Canzona choirs participated in an inspiring masterclass with acclaimed baritone Jason Barry-Smith, who generously shared his extensive choral expertise, professional insights and performance advice.

On Thursday, our Junior singers from Piccolo Choir and Campo delle Voci enjoyed an engaging workshop led by the Opera Queensland team. Students learnt part of the beautiful “Evening Prayer” duet from the opera Hansel and Gretel, developing their skills in harmony singing while gaining a deeper understanding of character and storytelling through music. They explored ways to bring the roles to life, from capturing Hansel’s playful and mischievous nature to conveying the gentle, expressive qualities of the music.

The workshop was both fun and educational, providing a memorable learning experience for our young singers, who participated with enthusiasm, focus, and great musical curiosity.

Please refer to the Photo Gallery for highlights.

On the Green Ben Lee Workshop

Before taking the stage with Australian music icon, Ben Lee and his band at On the Green, our Senior choristers and instrumentalists, Reese T and Ema C were invited behind the scenes for an exclusive rehearsal and Q&A session that offered a rare glimpse into the creative mind of one of Australia's most enduring artists.

While rehearsing alongside Ben was an unforgettable experience for our Canzona, Ragazzi and Ciao Bella choirs, it was his generosity in sharing his journey, creative philosophy and insights into a career spanning more than three decades that left a lasting impression on our musicians.

Together, Ben and the students explored songwriting, musical influences and the changing landscape of the music industry. Ben spoke candidly about his creative process, using the song ‘Hard Drive’ to demonstrate how ideas evolve and how creativity is rarely something that can be controlled.

More than a rehearsal, this experience was a masterclass in creativity as Ben encouraged students to embrace their individuality, reminding them that authenticity is far more valuable than perfection and that opportunities often come to those who persist, continue creating and stay true to their own unique voice.

Thank you to the Clayfield College Foundation for making this extraordinary collaboration possible through the Opportunities of Excellence Program. By creating experiences that inspire, enrich and empower our students, the Foundation continues to provide opportunities that encourage students to discover their passions and let their unique talents shine.

Please refer to the On the Green page for highlight photos.

Dance Classes

Irish dancing classes for all students:

• Day: Wednesday afternoons
• Location: Drama Room
• Time: 3:15pm to 4:00pm

Dance Troupe for experienced dancers Year 5 and above:

• Day: Monday mornings from Week 3
• Location: Drama Room
• Time: 7:00am to 8:00am