Performing Arts and Languages News

Music

The Science of Sound 

Mrs Mary Heferen-Faulkner

Kinder, Prep and Year 1 students recently enjoyed a wonderful visit from musicians of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, who shared fascinating insights into the science of sound. Did you know that we need vibrations and echoes to make sound? 

The students explored the differences between the trumpet and trombone and were keen to hear the unique tones and discover what makes the sounds vary. They made predictions about which instrument would produce the highest and lowest notes, and which could play the fastest. 

The session concluded with a joyful sing-along to the Bluey theme song, accompanied by the musicians. 

Thank you to ‘Professor’ Jack Fletcher on trombone, and James on trumpet, for bringing music and learning to life for our young students.

Year 5 Sing proudly at Festival of Voices 

Congratulations to our Year 5 students, who sang proudly and beautifully as part of the Festival of Voices in the final week of Term 2. These students had the opportunity to work with the gregarious and colourful conductor Annie Kwok, and performed alongside Mr Michael Power at the piano and the Tasmanian Youth Orchestra. Over two terms, they prepared six songs, which were then rehearsed with students from other schools across two days, culminating in a shared performance at Hobart’s City Hall. 

With the Festival celebrating its 20th anniversary, this was a very special event to be part of. Our students represented St Mary’s College with pride and showcased our deep love of the Arts. 

Our genuine thanks to Mr Scott Weston and Mrs Mary Heferen-Faulkner for their preparation of the students, and to the Year 5 teachers and Learning Support Officers who made it possible for us to attend together. 

Photo credit: Caroline Tan

Let the mid-winter (Arts) festivities begin! 

The Performing Arts will take the spotlight at this year’s Mini Winter Festival, promising a vibrant evening filled with energy, creativity and student work. On Friday 8 August, the College will come alive with music, drama and film as students from across all year levels share the results of their hard work and imagination. 

Audiences can look forward to the energetic atmosphere of Year 8s' Battle of the Bands and original short films created by our Year 9 filmmakers. Live theatre continues with Year 10s' commedia dell’arte performers weaving their way through the crowds, and senior students will showcase moving monologues and musical performances. 

It’s a wonderful opportunity to support our Performing Arts students and immerse yourself in the creative heart of our College. Come along and be part of the celebration! 

Don't miss out! Book your free tickets at the link here. 

Final farewell to Italian friends

Our five exchange students from Italy returned home over the holidays, but not before sharing one last meal together and enjoying some quintessentially Tasmanian ice cream! 

To complete the exchange, four St Mary’s College students will travel to northern Italy in late November to experience school life, home life and Christmas with their respective host families. 

If you're interested in participating in the Italian exchange program in 2026, please contact Prof Paola Keller. 

2026 study tour to Italy

We are excited to confirm that 24 students will travel with three teachers to Italy for 14 days in April 2026, visiting both the northern and central regions of the country. 

During the tour, students will take part in daily school exchanges, hands-on workshops, cultural sightseeing, language immersion and much more. This is an exciting opportunity for our students as global citizens, and a demonstration of our love for language, histories and culture at our College. 

Passport details are currently being collected. For further information, please contact Mr Michael Power. 

Mark your calendars | SMC Live at St Peter's | Friday 19 September