Music News

It’s great to be back at school teaching instrumental music. I had a wonderful break and I must say, it didn’t take long to get back into routine. The students have been fantastic in attending their lessons and rehearsals. A1 is abuzz with many students popping in most recesses and lunchtimes jamming to their favourite riffs and songs. This is a great sign witnessing our students enjoy making music with their colleagues.

This term we have a replacement string teacher while Donna Stemberger is on leave. I would like to introduce Helen Seton to the instrumental music program. Helen has settled in well and has already become very popular amongst our junior students. Helen currently plays first violin in the Maffra String Orchestra. She was a regular performer in the Latrobe Orchestra. A retired nurse of 47 years as well as a very accomplished musician, we are very grateful having her teach our string students for the remainder of the year. Please note string students will be participating in an extra rehearsal each week in preparation for future performances. These will occur every Friday on Compass.

Robyn Keane will be returning from her long service leave next week. A reminder to all of her instrumental students to check Compass to see when they have their first lesson for the term. Please note tuition fees have been adjusted on accounts due to students commencing lessons in week 4.

Band Tour

Students in the junior and intermediate concert bands, rock band, string and selected vocal students will participate in our very first band tour. Our ensembles are ready to perform concerts in Primary and Secondary Schools as well as community events. This is a credit to their enthusiasm and hard work. Our first tour will be to Phillip Island. Our students will be based at Bayview Adventure Camp in Grantville. Concerts are booked at Yarram PS, San Remo PS and Cowes PS. Besides performing, students will attend a 2 hour Phillip Island Seal Cruise, a visit to the very popular Phillip Island Chocolate Factory. They will participate in activities at the Adventure Camp as well as visiting local tourist attractions. All information including a detailed itinerary will be out soon to all participating students.

Concert

Our final concert featuring all ensembles and instrumental students will take place at the end of term 4 outside the Amphitheatre. More details will be out soon.

A reminder to all families, instrumental tuition/hire fees are due by week 5 this term.

Gerry Ciavarella

Instrumental music co-ordinator