Extra-Curricular at MAG
Celebrating Music with James Morrison's Visit to MAG
It was an honour and a delight to host one of Australia's most esteemed jazz musicians and virtuosos, James Morrison, at MAG last Wednesday! His visit was filled with unforgettable experiences as Mr. Morrison engaged with our students in various enriching activities.
The event commenced with a workshop where a select group of students had the privilege of interacting with Mr. Morrison. Participants, including budding trumpet and trombone players, as well as students from our Jazz and Step-Up Brass/Woodwind program, were treated to an intimate session. Mr. Morrison graciously fielded a wide array of questions, ranging from navigating the music industry to his personal musical preferences. His insights into building harmonies from chords on the piano and encouraging students to explore their creative potential and compose on their instruments were particularly inspiring.
A standout moment during the workshop was when Harry Nichol (Year 3), received a one-on-one masterclass from Mr. Morrison. Harry's trumpet performance, followed by Mr. Morrison's expert guidance, showcased the transformative power of mentorship. Accompanied by Mr. Morrison on piano, Harry's musical performance was elevated to new heights, much to his delight!
After the workshop, Year 6 Music Elective students and the workshop students gathered in the Hall to hear Mr. Morrison share invaluable wisdom. From emphasising the importance of mindset in musical endeavours, to cherishing playing every moment with purpose and joy, Mr. Morrison's words resonated with all in attendance.
The conclusion of James Morrison's visit was a captivating performance by the Jazz Ensemble rhythm section, featuring Mr. Morrison on trumpet. Their rendition of 'Summertime' by Gershwin entertained the audience as Mr. Morrison showcased jazz improvised solos and delivered an unforgettable performance.
Students gained inspiration and felt gratitude for Mr. Morrison's talent and generosity.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to James Morrison, as well as Elders Echuca who supported his visit to our school, for gracing us with his presence and sharing his musical brilliance with MAG.
A selection of Year 6 students shared their reflections of the experience below:
Skye Starritt:
Then James Morrison started playing to us with some of the Year 10s and it was incredible. He went through all the sounds that the trumpet could make. He went really high and then really low to make phenomenal noises. It was an incredible experience to meet this amazing Musician. I was very surprised at the noises that he could make and I was very grateful for the experience that the school gave me.
Lulu Morton:
James Morrison is very humorous, kind and talented.
He answered lots of our questions about the instruments and showed/told us how they work and key points to gradually become better musicians. We were so grateful and glad that we got to see such a great performance and meet him. Overall, we can all agree that it was an amazing opportunity and we all enjoyed all the fun and learning.
Wynter Whipp:
Wednesday was the best day ever, as all Year 6 got to see James Morrison. James Morrison is known for successfully playing brass instruments all over the world and came to Moama Anglican Grammar School to talk to us about his career and performances. My favourite part was when James told us about playing in front of Queen Elizabeth and King Charles. James had just come back from performing in Venezuela. It was an amazing opportunity to see him perform.
Luella Williams:
During the week, Year 6 got to experience a performance by James Morrison, and where do I start! This man was incredible!!! If you play a brass or woodwind instrument with Mr Kiely as a part of our Year 6 Music program, you would know that we do a competition where we see who can play for the most amount of bars (the longest). I think the record is 13 bars, but James held the note for about 20 bars!! It is incredible how James projects the sound coming out of the trumpet. He has played for some amazing people such as Queen Elizabeth, King Charles and Barack Obama! James shared different places he has played his instruments, and he recently had been to Venezuela. Thank you, James Morrison for giving us an unforgettable experience.
Now Accepting 2024 Extra Curricular Tuition Applications (Optional):
We offer a variety of instruments available for students to learn through our Extra-curricular Music Program. Our music tutors offer quality lessons and provide ongoing support to students so they can gain confidence in playing, and participate in a range of music performance opportunities.
The beginning of the year is a great time for students to commence learning an instrument and places for 2024 are filling up quickly. Please note, a waiting list is now in place for some instruments including drums and guitar.
For students interested in participating in our Extra-Curricular tuition program, a range of percussion, brass, woodwind, and string instruments are available to learn, as well as the opportunity to join our Brass/Woodwind ‘Step Up’ program, or a Rock Band.
Please refer to details on our website and if required, click on this link to apply: Extra-curricular Music Program Information.
Please note if your child already participated in our 2023 program, there is no need to re-apply.
Please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs Fiona Gibbs (Head of Student Experience – Extra Curricular Music Program (K-12) ) should you have any queries.