Performing Arts - Music 

Why Music is so important for your brain

Mentone Girls’ Secondary College offers one of the most extensive music education programs in the South East region. We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of twelve specialist instrumental and classroom music staff who work closely with our students through small group lessons, a wide range of ensembles, and performance preparation from Year 7 through to VCE Music. All students in Years 7 and 8 participate in the core classroom music program, with additional opportunities to engage in instrumental lessons and ensemble experiences. 

Research continues to highlight the significant role that music education plays in supporting students’ cognitive and personal development. We know that learning to play an instrument engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, strengthening memory, attention, coordination, and problem-solving skills. Students involved in instrumental music often demonstrate enhanced language development, reading ability, and overall academic performance. In addition, music-making supports the development of collaboration skills, discipline, resilience, and confidence, while fostering a sense of connection and belonging within a community. We encourage all parents to read the article below, which further outlines these benefits and reinforces the value of music as an integral part of a well-rounded education. 

Vocal Night

On Wednesday evening, we held our first Vocal Night for the year featuring students learning Voice from across all year levels. Students performed in small group, duet and solos. One of the most enjoyable aspects of this particular concert is that the students perform in year level order with our most experience performers later in the evening. This enables our younger students to hear the progress that is ahead of them,but also the opportunity to remind our seniors, how they too began,some years ago now. The variety of songs and styles is amazing. 

The concert finished with performance from both the All Stars Choir and then Madrigal. 

Thank you to Blanka West for her work with the students in developing their voices and preparing them for sharing their work in public.

Stringfest @ MGSC

On Thursday, we hosted the annual SEVR Stringfest. This day sees about 150 students from across the region coming together to form a large string orchestra. Guest conductor Tom Sylvestor, worked the students throughout the day on three major works which included parts to suit all levels of ability and enabling lesser experiences students play alongside those with many years of learning behind them.

Our own strings program really only expanded though the inclusion of sting in the Specialist Music Classes in 2024. Now this year, we have one of the strongest String programs in the region and approximately one third of the students attending the regional day were from MGSC.

House Performance

This whole school event, led by our House Captains, is a massive showcase of student talent and colour.  Our adjudicator is Ms Nina Selover, former student and now working in the industry. Full report in the next newsletter! 

Wendy Harvey

Director of Performing Arts