Music Notes

Kurt Abell, Head of Instrumental Music

It's been wonderful to hear the Patsy Venn Centre come alive with the joyous sounds of music as the Music Department kicks off an exciting 2025. 

With all ensembles back in rehearsal, students are working closely with their instrumental instructors to plan their musical journeys for the year ahead.

Here's our Instrumental Music Team for 2025:

• Mr Kurt Abell - Head of Instrumental Music – Percussion
• Mr Darko Kolosov – Head of Strings
• Mrs Kate Cole – Head of Keyboard
• Mrs Sylvie Leprohon – Flute
• Mr Benjamin Singh – Clarinet/Saxophone
• Ms Kristie Thai – Clarinet/Saxophone
• Mr Evgeny Chebykin – French Horn, Trumpet, Tuba
• Mr Ken McClimont -Trombone
• Mr Jake Amy - Piano
• Ms Sarah Bouquet - Piano
• Ms Kay Cai – Piano
• Ms Serena Guo - Piano
• Ms Vanessa Neagle - Violin/Viola
• Mr Darcy Gilkerson - Cello
• Ms Ella Evans - Double Bass
• Mr Conrad Nilsson - Percussion/Drumkit
• Mr Ben Dix - Guitar, Bass Guitar
• Mr Adam May - Guitar, Bass Guitar
• Ms Zara Barrett – Voice
• Ms Sophia Wasley - Voice
• Ms Kathryn Nelson - Speech and Drama

Introducing Ms Serena Guo - Piano Teacher

We're delighted to welcome our new Piano Teacher, Ms Serena Guo, to the Music Department.

Ms Guo was awarded a Licentiate in Music (Piano) with Distinction in 2015. She completed her Master of Music (Performance Teaching) at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music in 2016 and earned her Primary Suzuki Piano Teacher Certificate that same year. Before moving to Melbourne, she studied at the Shanghai Conservatorium of Music, where she obtained both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Music Education.

With over 15 years of piano teaching experience, Ms Guo specialises in preparing students for exams and competitions. She believes in a well-rounded musical education, combining lessons, rehearsals and performances. Ms Guo views teaching as a shared learning journey, working closely with students to inspire and guide their musical growth.

Jazz Cabaret Evening – Thursday 27 March

Avah Quinn, Choral Captain

Our lively and vibrant Jazz Cabaret Evening will take place on Thursday 27 March. This event celebrates jazz—a rich blend of blues, ragtime and soulful hymns—in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Kilvington students will showcase their talents in an engaging performance setting. 

As one of Kilvington’s first major musical events of 2025, Jazz Cabaret sets the stage for a year of incredible performances. It’s also a great opportunity for those considering joining the choir to experience performing in front of a supportive audience.

JAZZ CABARET AUDITIONS

Auditions commence in Week 5 and will be held each lunchtime from Monday, 24 February to Friday, 28 February. Students must be in Year 9 or above to audition. Please register your name on the audition schedule. 

LOOKING FOR PARENT HELPERS AND SMALL PRIZE DONATIONS FOR RAFFLES 

If any parents are available to help on the night or donate prizes/vouchers for the raffle, please contact Music Reception at music.admin@kilvington.vic.edu.au. Your support would be greatly appreciated!

Music Week – Monday 24 to Friday 28 March

Zach McDonald, Music Captain

Music Week offers all our Music students the opportunity to perform. The week kicks off with the exciting 'Battle of the Bands', and throughout the week, our ensembles and choirs will entertain the School during lunchtime performances.

BATTLE OF THE BANDS 

Get ready to rock and roll at our 'Battle of the Bands' on Monday, 24 March! This exciting competition will feature bands from all Senior School year levels, showcasing their talent in an afternoon of lively entertainment.

Rehearsal rooms will be available from Week 5, and sign-up sheets will be posted around the School. The event will take place at the PVC Green during lunchtime on the first day of Music Week.

Friday Afternoon Soirees

Friday Afternoon Soirees are back, starting this Friday, 21 February! 

These informal performance opportunities help young performers transition from practice to the concert stage. Students will perform in front of a small, supportive group of students and staff from 3.45 to 4.30pm in PVC7.

Sign-up sheets are available in the PVC foyer. Students with piano accompaniments should bring the piano part or pass it to Mrs Kate Cole beforehand.

Moorabbin Music + Arts - Feb 21 to 23

Back for its second year, Moorabbin Music + Arts is a community celebration filled with music, arts and free family fun.

Over three days, the Kingston Arts Precinct will feature live music, interactive installations, arts and crafts, family activities and food trucks. Entry is free, but some performances are ticketed.

Find more information here: Moorabbin Music + Arts

Diary dates - Term 1