PERFORMING ARTS

A NIGHT OF REMARKABLE TALENT: SENIOR ENSEMBLES DAZZLE THE AUDIENCE

On the evening of the Tuesday 21 May, the Senior Ensembles Concert delivered an unforgettable performance that captivated and inspired the audience. The event showcased the extraordinary talents and hard work of our senior musicians, culminating in a night filled with musical brilliance and emotional depth.

The concert opened with a stunning rendition of the ‘Wedding March’ from a midsummer night’s dream’, setting a high standard for the evening. Conducted by Tracy Videon, The Orchestra’s precision and harmony were immediately evident, drawing the audience into a world of musical excellence. Each piece that followed highlighted the versatility and skill of our senior performers. A rendition of ‘Pinball Wizard’ by the ‘Who’ proved to be a crowd favourite. 

The Senior Percussion ensemble, directed by Sergei Golovko, brought a dynamic and powerful interpretation of ‘Mambo Jumbo’, leaving the audience in awe of their technical prowess and emotive expression. The Senior Choir delivered a moving performance of ‘Crazy’ accompanied by Elvis Leung on piano, with their voices blending seamlessly to create a rich and textured sound that resonated throughout the hall. 

The concert concluded with a breathtaking performance by the Senior Stage Band. There were a number of students taking solos throughout the three pieces performed. ‘Picasso’ featured Louie Allen on Flugelhorn. An outstanding performance. The senior band brought the evening to a triumphant close. 

The dedication and passion of our senior musicians were evident in every note, showcasing their journey and growth over the years. Their ability to convey profound emotion and connect with the audience is a testament to their hard work and the guidance of their talented instrumental and classroom music teachers. 

Congratulations to all the performers, instrumental music staff, Music staff, sound and lighting directors, and everyone involved in making this night a resounding success. The Senior Ensembles have set a high bar for future performances, and we eagerly anticipate next year’s concert. Bravo to our senior musicians for an evening of unforgettable music and inspiring performances!

Ben Browne

Acting Head of the Performing Arts

GIGS ON THE GREEN

On Wednesday 22 May & Thursday 23 May, VCE Music Performance students performed at the Gigs On the Green in the Theatre, lunchtime performances. There were a variety of pieces presented, all to a very high standard. Students presented a range of performances, in both solo and group settings. Students continue to work on their performance skills as they prepare for their end of semester recital. This is a great opportunity for students to present works in front of a live audience. Congratulations to all the performers and everyone who attended.

Andrew Albanis

VCE Music Teacher

THEATRE STUDIES EXCURSION TO WICKED THE MUSICAL

The Years 10, 11 and 12 Theatre Studies students over the past two weeks have had the exciting opportunity to see the live production of Wicked the Musical.

While the Year 12s are seeing the show in preparation to writing and analyzing its theatrical elements for their end of year exam, the Year 10s and 11s also saw the show to introduce their new unit of work.

It was a wonderful day at the theatre with some special highlights at the end of the show and meeting some cast members: Zoe Copping as Elphaba, Courtney Monsma who played Glinda and Simon Burke who played the Wizard.

Ellie Adler

Drama & Theatre Studies Teacher 

VOCAL MASTERCLASS/WORKSHOP

Tuesday 28 May couldn't come around fast enough for me - we had a vocal masterclass/workshop with Elena Xanthoudakis (Class of 1996), professional singer and past student of McKinnon SC. Elena now lives in Glasgow, Scotland, but was in Melbourne to play the main role in Melbourne Opera's production of 'Lucia Di Lammermoor'. 

During the workshop we learnt how important the consonants are when spinning the sound out, to not repeat any phrases the same way, and many other vocal techniques. It was an educational experience worth having - one student wanted it to last the whole day! 

Thank you to Dmitry who drove a busload of East Campus students over so that they could participate. Thanks also to Andrew Krause who came to take photos throughout, including one with Elena and her brother Nick who works as the AV Director at McKinnon Secondary College. 

Blanka West

Voice Teacher/Choral Director