Music News

Generations in Jazz competition

Over the weekend from May 3rd to May 5th, a busload of talented JMSS music students journeyed to Mount Gambier for the Generations in Jazz competition. JMSS proudly presented three competing bands: the Chamber Choir directed by Ms. Loz Irwin-Ray; the JMSS Jazz Carrot Combo, under the guidance of Mr. Sean Smyth; and the acclaimed JMSS Stage Band, co-directed by Mr Ben Delves and Mr Sean Smyth. All ensembles delivered captivating performances, receiving warm praise and valuable feedback from a panel of professional musicians and educators. Notable, the Stage Band ascended to a higher division this year, showcasing their growth and prowess in our most challenging category yet. 

Special congratulations to Kai Cheung, our esteemed music captain, and Leonard Apale for attaining Superband status at the prestigious 2024 Generations in Jazz competition. Their exceptional musicianship shone brightly amid a field of over 5000 competitors. Kai's mesmerising flugelhorn ballad, and Leonard's stellar baritone saxophone skills captivated the judges and audience alike.

Being a specialist science school, our students couldn't help but vote for a super early morning visit to the nearby Umpherston sinkhole on Sunday morning. Thanks to the teachers for waking up at 5am to accomodate this! 

Heartfelt kudos to all members of the Stage Band, Chamber Choir, and Jazz Carrot Combo for their stellar performances on Saturday!

~ Sean Smyth (Head of Music)

On Friday, the 3rd of May, our JMSS musicians departed on one of the most memorable trips to Mount Gambier, where they participated in the renowned Generations in Jazz festival. Representing our school were the JMSS chamber choir, the stage band, and the Jazz Carrots ensemble.

It was in the world's largest modular tent that our students immersed themselves in a culture of Jazz seen nowhere else in the country. They had the incredible opportunity to connect with numerous musicians nationwide and watch esteemed musicians, including Migiwa Miyajima, five-time Grammy-nominated producer; Kate Ceberano, the first woman in the Australian Songwriters Association Hall of Fame; Budjerah, two-time ARIA Award-winning artist; and more.

We're proud to announce that our talented ensembles didn't just participate; they excelled. Congratulations to Leonard Apale and Kai Cheung, who were our school's superband winners!And no trip to Mount Gambier is complete without a little adventure. At the conclusion of the festival, our students were awestruck by the Umpherston Sinkhole, bringing a satisfying conclusion to the unforgettable trip.Special appreciation goes out to our dedicated staff: Sean Smyth, Benjamin Delves, Lauren Irwin-Ray, and Penelope Hale whose contributions have been integral to our success and joy during the trip.

~ Sabrina Pavia