The Nazarene

Music Camp 2025

“Another busy year, and nothing stops Nazareth's young Musicians from continuing to make music …”

 

Mr Simon Landid

Instructional Leader Performing Arts

 

When the Nazareth Performing Arts faculty went on a break at the end of 2024, we knew 2025 would be a busy year for us.  It all started sometime in October 2024 with our principal, Mr Sam Cosentino, walking into our office for usual staff check-in.  I remember that at the time, there were three of us in the office, and discussion about the school musical came up among other things.  The Performing Arts team realised it would be a busy 2025 after Mr Cosentino had left the office.  As they say, busy is good, right? 

 

The dream was realised as Ms Kathleen Taura and I started discussing options delivering 2025 Nazareth College Musical.  Disney’s High School Musical came up as a possibility.  In less than a week we have interviewed show directors and put together audition packs for students. 

 

Last Monday, I took 38 music students to the annual Music Camp at Don Bosco’s Camp in Safety Beach, Mornington Peninsula.  Originally, there were 52 students across seven ensembles around the College: the newly revitalised Drumline Naz, Year 9 Rock Band, Year 10 Music Ministry class, VET certificate III Music Performance (2nd Year class), Strings Ensemble, Guitar and Bass Ensemble and Contemporary Band.  

Students workshopped more than three musical works in five sessions over two days under the supervision and guidance of ensemble teachers.  The camp was also an opportunity to welcome the new Year 7s who had joined the College earlier in the year and congratulate the current Year 12s who have been an integral part of the music program for the past few years. 

 

Students also had a chance to rehearse a few items from the 2025 College Production, High School Musical, as most members of the cast were at the Music Camp.  Our College captain, Gabriella Kakerissa (Year 12, Knox 2), was given a special invitation to attend the camp as a token of her participation and dedication to the College's performing arts programs.  

 

During the camp, Gabriella led and supported in the organisation of various activities, including running the night entertainment with all the senior students.  The trivia was the highlight of the evening, where all students and teachers interacted in a safe, engaging, and entertaining environment.  I wish the Year 12 music students all the best in their future endeavours.  

I am also grateful to mention that this year Drumline has returned to Nazareth.  The ensemble's groovy and rhythmic performance during the camp was uplifting.  

Thanks to Mr Charles Hill, Drums and Percussion tutor.  What a wonderful way to introduce Mr Hill and the Year 7 Drums and Percussion students who have formed the new Drumline NAZ.  Mr Charles Hill comes to Nazareth with impeccable experience in teaching Drums and Percussion in both Queensland and Victorian Schools.  

 

We welcome Mr Hill to the Nazareth Music Instrumental staff as he embarks on tutoring Drums and Percussion with us.

 

I also thank the following instrumental teaching staff:

  • Mr Zeb Vescio – Guitar and Bass (also teaches Guitar & Bass ensemble/Year 9 Rock Band).
  • Ms Xenia Zubenko – Strings (also teaches Strings ensemble).
  • Mr Geoffrey Earle – Woodwinds and Brass (also teaches Contemporary Band).

It also fitting to invite two more classroom ensembles for a chance to rehearse and refine their performance skills.  These ensembles were:

  • Year 10 Music Ministry (Nazareth Religious Education and Music subject that caters for the College liturgical needs for Mass and Spiritual celebrations)
  • Certificate III VET Music Performance, 2nd Year (a mix of Year 11 & 12 students completing 2nd year of VET Music Performance).  

The Music Camp has provided these ensembles with ample opportunities to rehearse and complete practical coursework.  

In conclusion, the 2025 Music Camp was a fruitful one.  I am proud to have witnessed these students grow and deliver rich performances over the past five years I have been in charge of the Nazareth Performing Arts faculty.  It is the growth and these success stories that motivate us to keep doing this job day after day.  

 

 

Mr Simon Landid

Instructional Leader Performing Arts