Performing Arts
Music Matters
Pius ‘Unplugged’ – Chamber Music Concert
Last Friday evening, the Sarto Centre was transformed into a warm and intimate, candlelit venue for the Pius ‘Unplugged’ - Chamber Music Concert. The inviting atmosphere provided a perfect setting for an evening filled with outstanding musical performances and provided great contrast to our Bir Bands Bonanza of the previous week.
The audience enjoyed a diverse program, featuring students from Years 5 to 12. Performers included members of the String Ensemble and String Quartet, the Junior and Senior Chorales, Guitar Ensembles, Brass Quintet, Bass Guitar Ensemble, and two of our Year 12 HSC Music students. Each group brought their own unique sound and energy to the evening, contributing to a memorable celebration of chamber music.
A special mention goes to our featured soloists, vocalist Antony Autore (Music 2 and Music Extension) and Alto Saxophonist Rhys Bourke (Music 1), who delivered exceptional performances. Their artistry and musicianship no doubt inspired our younger students in the audience.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the ensemble directors for their dedication and guidance in preparing the students for this special occasion. Thank you also to everyone who attended and supported this memorable evening of music-making.
Sydney Eisteddfod Participation
Our involvement in the Sydney Eisteddfod began yesterday, featuring impressive performances from the Junior Concert Band, under the direction of Mr David Sismey, the Intermediate Concert Band, led by Ms Laura Power and the Senior Concert Band, directed by Mr Geoff Power. All ensembles competed in highly competitive sections, showcasing their dedication and musicality. For those who attended the Big Bands Twilight Concert, you would have experienced first-hand the remarkable quality and professionalism displayed by all our Concert and Jazz Bands. Their performances continue to set a high standard, reflecting the hard work and commitment of both our talented students and their dedicated directors.
We are delighted to announce the following results so far:
Junior Concert Band – 3rd place out of 12 competitors
Intermediate Concert Band – 2nd place – out of 6 competitors
Although the Senior Concert Band (SCB) did not receive a placing in the competition (out of 10 competitors), this was their first performance back at the Eisteddfod in several years. Mr Power, new to conducting the SCB this year, would like to commend the students for their outstanding teamwork and cooperation. He emphasises that this marks the beginning of the ensemble’s journey towards rejoining the top echelon of bands. Their dedication and collaborative spirit are laying the foundation for future success as they continue to develop and strive for excellence together. Well done SCB!
Upcoming Eisteddfod performances @ The Concourse: All welcome.
Junior Jazz Band – Friday 29 May – 1:30 pm
Senior Jazz Band – Friday 29 May – 3:15 pm
Intermediate Jazz Band – Friday 29 May – 5:45 pm
Rehearsal workshop dates for your diaries:
Intermediate Concert Band Workshop – Sunday 14 June – 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Senior Concert Band Workshop – Sunday 21 June – 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Parents have been emailed details for the above by their Ensemble Director.
Major Works Day
Last Friday 22 May also saw our HSC Music 1, Music 2 and Music Extension students focus on their major works – in other words, their Performances, Compositions and Musicology specialisations, with the support of their classroom teachers and accompanists. Ex-student, Henrik Hogg, currently studying a Bachelor of Music majoring in Composition, assisted our Music 2 students with their Core Compositions by providing invaluable feedback. This day was a fantastic opportunity for our students to engage deeply with their projects as they continue their HSC journey.
Performing Arts Cultural Tour
ETA Visa - for Australian passport holders into the UK. Please make sure this is done with adequate time before departure. https://www.gov.uk/eta
Note: digital fingerprint access is done at Vienna airport for entry into Austria/Germany
Could you please send the receipt of your son’s ETA to mdodd@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au for our files.
Save the Date: Final Performing Arts Cultural Tour Meeting
Wednesday 10 June, 6:00 pm–7:00 pm in the Band Room
Please ensure one parent and the touring student attend this meeting. At this meeting, we will provide detailed information about travel arrangements, accommodation, packing requirements and recommendations, and other important tour details. This will also be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have. Students will also receive their tour apparel at this meeting.
Performing Arts Dates Term 2:
As always, please check the Performing Arts section of Woodchatta each week and feel free to reach out to our helpful Performing Arts staff if you have further enquiries:
Cocurricular / Performing Arts Admin assistant: Ms Merryn Dodd,
Private Tuition Coordinator: Mr Stephen Cummins, scummins@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au
Ensembles Program Coordinator: Mr Andrew Saar, asaar@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au
Leader of Learning, Drama: Ms Penny Lindley, plindley@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au
Head of Performing Arts: Mrs Annabel Westhoff, awesthoff@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au
Mrs Annabel Westhoff - Leader of Learning, Performing Arts
Drama Matters
Year 7 Performances 'Making an Ad!'
Students in Year 7 Drama will begin their performance assessment next week. As this task will be marked during class time, students should bring any props or costume items required for their performance. Throughout this assessment, students have been developing their skills in collaboration and creative content making as they work together to devise and perform their pieces on the stage in the Sarto.
Upcoming DRAMA events for Term 2:
Friday 5 June: No Junior Drama Ensemble due to Staff Formation Day.
Monday 8 June: No Senior Drama Ensemble due to King’s Birthday holiday.
Thursday 11 June: No Intermediate Drama Ensemble due to staff meeting.
Sunday 14 June: EXTRA Senior Drama Ensemble Rehearsals for The Club 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Thursday 25 June: No Intermediate Drama Ensemble due to Parent/Teacher meetings.
Ms Penny Lindley - Leader of Learning, Drama
From PAPA
SAVE THE DATE: Saturday 17 October 2026
PAPA Comedy Night Annual Fundraiser. More details to come.
Mrs Sylvia Ulevik - PAPA President - papaparents@pandf.spx.nsw.edu.au