Performing Arts
Music Matters
Founder’s Day Mass:
Thank you to the students who participated in the ‘Superband’ - a remarkable ensemble formed by combining the talents of the Senior Concert Band, College Orchestra, Drumline, and both choirs - who delivered an extraordinary musical performance that greatly enriched the significance of this mass.
Their harmonious collaboration and exceptional musicality added a profound and uplifting dimension to the event, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. The Superband’s powerful and moving performance left a lasting impression on all in attendance, truly highlighting the spirit and dedication of our talented students and staff.
College Drumline Ignites the Spirit at Rugby Supporter's Day
The College Drumline brought unparalleled energy and excitement to Rugby Supporter's Day, captivating the crowd with their powerful rhythms and precise coordination. Their dynamic performance set the perfect tone for the day, rallying the supporters, and boosting team spirit. The infectious beat and enthusiastic presence of the Drumline left a lasting impression. Well done boys!
SPX Staff Rock Band (aka ‘Staff Room Rebels’):
As part of the Founder's Day celebrations, the SPX Staff Rock Band took to the stage, delivering an unforgettable performance that displayed the impressive musical talents of our passionate staff. The band featured members from our Music Department, including Mr Brendan Jones on lead guitar, Mrs Annabel Westhoff on keyboard, and Mr Andrew Saar on vocals. They were joined by other skilled staff musicians: Mr Neil Gibson on guitar, Mr Anthony Tassone on bass guitar, and were supported by Year 10 student Ethan Parsons on drums, who provided energetic and flawless rhythm throughout the set.
The setlist featured iconic hits that had the (older) crowd singing along, including 'Don’t You (Forget About Me)' by Simple Minds, led by the powerful vocals of Mr David Richie. The energy continued with 'Learning to Fly' by the Foo Fighters, masterfully sung by Mr Glen Carroll. Adding a unique touch to the performance, our resident didgeridoo player, Mr James Bourke, joined in Goanna’s Australian rock masterpiece, ‘Solid Rock’. The atmosphere was electric, and it was clear that both performers and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the show. We can’t wait for the next SPX Staff Rock Band gig!
Experience Jazz Magic with James Morrison: Friday 23 May
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness the legendary Australian jazz icon, James Morrison, live at St Pius X College! Tickets are selling fast for this unforgettable evening of music and inspiration. Ticket link is below.
Event Highlights:
On Friday, 23 May, James Morrison will spend the day mentoring our jazz ensemble students with his renowned expertise. The day features exclusive workshops, culminating in an inspiring masterclass led by Morrison and his phenomenal quartet - open to all young, passionate musicians.
Workshop and Masterclass Schedule, College gym, Chatswood:
9:00 am - 9:30 am: James Morrison - arrival and welcome
9:40 am - 11:15 am (Period 2): Workshop with Senior Jazz Band (Geoff Power)
11:15 am - 11:50 am: Morning Tea
11:56 am - 1pm (Period 4): Workshop with Intermediate Jazz Band (Geoff Power).
1:00 pm - 1:45 pm: Lunch
1:45 pm - 2:45 pm: Workshop with Junior Jazz Band (Laura Power).
3.05 pm: Snack provided by PAPA for concert performers. Students should bring their own water bottles as no drinks will be provided.
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm: Masterclass with James Morrison and his Quartet, including soundcheck (open to all music students, Years 5 - 12).
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Dinner provided by PAPA. Some sausages will be for sale for families, but not drinks.
6:00 pm: Warm up in ensemble rooms
6:30 pm - 8:45 pm: Concert.
Concert Program:
Pre-show Entertainment: Rock Ensemble performing outside.
First Half: Concert and jazz bands, joined by James Morrison, showcasing a powerful fusion of student talent and jazz mastery.
Interval: Percussion ensembles performing outside while the stage is reset. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and biscuits courtesy of PAPA.
Second Half: James Morrison and his acclaimed quartet deliver a soulful, dynamic performance to conclude the evening.
Note: Limited parking will be available on school grounds.
Get Your Tickets Now!
This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience this jazz great at St Pius X College. Secure your tickets now before they’re gone!
Ticket sales close 22 May (no tickets available at the door).
Visit:
or using the QR code:
Headphones for Students
We kindly request that all Music students in Years 5 – 12 have a pair of inexpensive wired earbud headphones, which are easily available at supermarkets and service stations (for example, from Coles, as shown in the image below). These headphones should be kept in their pencil cases and will be used for music composition and listening analysis activities. Thank you for your support!
Elective Music Students Take the Stage!
Families, friends and fellow students are invited to join us for a night of exceptional talent as our Elective Music students from Years 9 to 11 showcase their musical skills at the 'Sounds of Tomorrow: Elective Music Showcase' in the Band Room on Monday, 16 June. This event promises a diverse program featuring solo and group performances, highlighting the dedication and creativity of our young musicians. Each student will present either a solo or ensemble piece. Don’t miss this opportunity to support our gifted and enthusiastic musicians and enjoy an evening filled with captivating music!
Important Performing Arts dates for your diary
Term 2
James Morrison Workshop Day - Masterclass and Concert - 23 May
HSC Major Works Day - Friday 30 May - Music 1, Music 2 and Music Extension students
Chamber Music Concert - Friday 30 May, 7:00 pm, Sarto Centre (featuring our choirs, guitar ensembles, strings, orchestra and Year 12 soloists)
Junior Jazz - Sydney Eisteddfod - Tuesday 10 June 6:30 pm – time tbc
Intermediate Concert Band - Sydney Eisteddfod - Wednesday 11 June 4:00 pm – time tbc
'Sounds of Tomorrow: Elective Music Showcase' (Years 9 - 11 Elective Music students) - Monday 16 June
Intermediate Concert Band workshop - Sunday 22 June - 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
ICB - NSW State Band Championships (time TBC) - Sunday 24 August
Term 3
PAPA Comedy Fundraiser – 20 September
Holiday Music Workshops
The Sydney Youth Orchestra has some exciting winter holiday programs for orchestral musicians and HSC Music students. Click the link below for more information.
Mrs Annabel Westhoff - Leader of Learning, Performing Arts
From PAPA
Call for volunteers ahead of James Morrison concert next Friday.
PAPA is looking for 12+ volunteers next Friday 23 May from 2:30 pm onwards to help feed our Performing Arts students afternoon tea and then a sausage sizzle dinner. Even if you can offer an hour of your time, that would be fantastic! We need help with set up, cooking, distribution and clean up duties etc.
This is a fabulous way to get involved in the Performing Arts community and meet new people.
Sign up here: https://shorturl.at/4Nd4Y
Thank you
Mrs Sylvia Ulevik - PAPA President
Drama Matters
Year 9 Commedia Workshop with Fools in Progress Theatre Company
When: Friday 16 May
Where: Sarto Centre
Elective Year 9 Drama students will take part in a two-hour incursion in the Sarto Centre with actors from Fools in Progress Theatre Company. They should wear their sports uniform so they can move around effectively throughout this practical workshop.
Fools In Progress are a Sydney based, dynamic group of professionally trained actors, teachers and artists who have come together, from diverse paths, to showcase the origins of modern comedy through traditional Commedia dell’Arte performances and workshops. The actors trained extensively in Italy at the International School of Comic Acting founded and directed by Antonio Fava and collaborate to create original performances that are topical, political, spontaneous and hilarious for the young and the young-at-heart.
This will be a fun and informative practical workshop where the students will learn how to correctly perform key characters from the Commedia world. They will also be introduced to simple scenarios and of course the masks that are worn by most of the characters. Photos next week! Parents should check Clipboard for incursion letter and payment cost.
Upcoming events:
Year 9 Commedia Incursion Workshop with Fools Progress Theatre Company: Friday 16 May 8:30 am - 10:30 am in the Sarto Centre
Ms Penny Lindley - Leader of Learning, Drama