Music
Mr Matthew Pankhurst, Head of Music
Our Rising Stars Shine!
A huge congratulations to Ms Katrina Bird and the Rising Stars Concert Band, who proudly represented the College at the Victorian School Music Festival on Wednesday, November 12. The band delivered a vibrant and entertaining program featuring a mix of traditional and exciting contemporary pieces, including a mash-up of two classic rock tunes.
The festival had a strong educational focus. After their performance, the chief adjudicator led the band in a tutorial on rhythm and ensemble precision—an invaluable learning experience for our young musicians.
This event was a wonderful celebration of everything these capable young music students have achieved this year. We are also grateful to the band members who will assist with Orientation Day next week, some are generously giving up what would otherwise be a day off school. Thank you!
2026 Ensembles – We Want to Hear From You!
Rising Stars Ensemble.
Guitar Ensemble.
Rising Stars Ensemble.
Guitar Ensemble.
The Music Faculty is currently finalising our ensemble program for next year. Expect the return of favourites such as Concert Bands, Jazz and Stage Bands, as well as Small Ensembles.
We are also excited to further expand ensemble opportunities for Guitar, Bass, Keyboard and Percussionists. All students who take lessons at school will participate in weekly ensemble rehearsals, but we want to involve even more students!
If you take music lessons outside of school, we’d love to hear from you. You are very welcome to join our music program—there is no additional cost. For more details, please email performingarts@stpats.vic.edu.au.
Our 2026 Music Captains
Finn Curran.
Kayden Lin.
Finn Curran.
Kayden Lin.
We are delighted to announce our 2026 Music Co-Captains: Finn Curran and Kayden Lin. These outstanding young men show excellent prospects as leaders and are already fantastic role models. Congratulations, Finn and Kayden!
Mr Pankhurst Signing Off
Mr Tim Snibson.
Ms Katrina Bird.
Mr Matthew Pankhurst.
Mr Tim Snibson.
Ms Katrina Bird.
Mr Matthew Pankhurst.
This will be my final Crest article, as our family will be moving to Melbourne in 2026 to support an exciting opportunity for our son.
In 2026, the Music Department will have two Heads of Music:
- Mr Tim Snibson will take on the new role of Head of Music Performance
Ms Katrina Bird will lead Classroom Music as Head of Music Faculty
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support over the past two years and wish everyone in our community a joyful Christmas and a successful, prosperous 2026.