Co-curricular Updates

Issac, Year 9, University Campus

As a music student, being a part of the school orchestras has been one of my favourite co-curricular activities. It isn't just about playing the right notes; it's about growing together as musicians, improving slowly and having a great time with people who love music as much as you do.  

In music, there is both solos and orchestras. Solos are performing by yourself (or with accompany) as the main character, playing the melody and shining on your own. Orchestras are completely different though. An orchestra is about everyone first perfecting their own parts, then coming together during rehearsals and blending those individual parts into a single performance where the music matters more than any one player. Together, we create something that no single musician could create.  

Every rehearsal is always full of energy. We all work hard, while also having loads of fun, whether we're attempting a challenging new piece or laughing when something doesn't quite right. It's amazing how all the different instruments come together to create something that sounds so mighty. The showcase concerts are also always exciting too. There's nothing quite like walking on stage, seeing the audience and then hearing months of hard work flow lushly through the room. All the practice works up to these experiences on and it's such a great feeling knowing everyone has played their part. Above all, our music teachers contribute to all our success the most. They make rehearsals enjoyable, challenge us to improve and always believe in what we can achieve. 

Being part of the school orchestra has shaped me not only as a musician but also as a teammate, performer and person. The experiences, friendships and unforgettable memories are ones that I will always treasure. If you're considering joining an orchestra, don't hesitate: pick up your instrument, take the chance and become part of something truly special. 

Shayden, Year 12, Ridgeway Campus 

The final day of Term 2 brought a welcome change of pace from a normal school day- the chess tournament at St Monica’s College. 

Having played tournaments before, I knew I was going to have a fun time- one populated with satisfying victories and adrenaline-pumping losses. In retrospect- it was not the scoreboard, but the bustling, anticipatory excitement of the room, and the refreshing conversations I had with the event organisers that struck me. For so many years I had simply viewed them as the adults in charge, so I found it fulfilling to just have a conversation with them. 

As I played out my seven games, striving to outmaneuver my opponent, I remember my friends watching over my board as they gradually finished their own games, joining me in the twists and turns of the battle before we would spectate another game. This is what I love about the tournaments- the genuine sense of community, the celebration of each other's victories, and the shared sympathy over one another’s losses. It was not just an exhilarating day because of the chess alone; it was because we got to play as a team. The fact that we won the tournament also helped. 

If you have an interest in the game, no matter how slight, I cannot recommend entering a tournament highly enough. Find a few friends who would want to join you and sign up. If you’re concerned about your skill level, don’t be; beginners play this tournament all the way up to masters, so there will be an evenly skilled opponent. So please, if anything has piqued your curiosity then sign up– this day will be for you.