Music Matters

A message to our Music community

Thank you! for all your resilience during these tough times. People in the performing arts are struggling everywhere. All that we can do is to stay positive, stay connected and continue to develop our musical skills, ready for the day when we can perform together again. 

Having music in our lives is a wonderful gift and playing an instrument is one of the best mindful activities we can do. Not only do we enjoy the benefits of improving our skills on our instrument but we get to clear our minds of the monotony of lockdown. When we are in the zone, lost in our music, it can be the most therapeutic experience you can have. 

WINTER CONCERT

Unfortunately, we have had to cancel our 2021 Winter Concert. Thank you to all the families who purchased tickets. Your refunds should appear in your bank accounts in the next week as "Compass Balance Hawthorn". 

We appreciate those who asked not to be refunded and use their ticket purchase to support the Music department.  However, we ask that you save the money for the chance to purchase tickets to our Spring Concert on the 19th of October. 

ENSEMBLES

We are greatly saddened by the latest lockdown extension and our inability to enjoy the fun and social interaction ensembles offer. We are also shattered by the fact that our year 7 and 8 student's parents, still haven't seen their children perform live at a concert. We were so close this year! 

Ensemble Rehearsals are really difficult during lockdowns. Our instrumental staff have tried valiantly to make them engaging however with the delays over the internet, it is impossible to teach many ensemble skills. With rehearsals scheduled before and after school students are also reluctant to add another screen session to their day. Thank you to those who have engaged in the sessions that have run. We will continue to offer activities and chances to connect during rehearsal times. 

If you are not able to make a scheduled online rehearsal, please make sure your parents have approved your absence on Compass. Keep practising your parts individually until we can return to playing them together.

RECHARGE DAY

Our Year 7-9 music students took the "Personal Choice" option to gain 10 points for their class by playing their instrument. 

INSTRUMENTAL LESSONS ONLINE 

Please make sure your child's microphone and camera are working for their Teams meetings with instrumental teachers. It is very difficult for teachers to help students when they can't see their techniques on their instruments or in some cases even hear them if their microphones aren't on!

Thank you again for all your support during these crazy times. Please continue to be patient, stay in touch with your instrumental teachers and keep up your practice routine. We will get through this and reap the rewards of all our efforts when we return to "normal".

Nick Dean

Music Coordinator

Player Profile

At Doncaster Secondary College, we have some amazingly talented musicians in our mix and the Music department would like to showcase our performers through a regular Player Profile newsletter segment.  In this edition, I'd like to introduce our readers to Oscar Purnell. 

Joshua Verco

Instrumental Music Instructor

Oscar Purnell, Year 12

Hey Oscar.  What instruments do you play?

Hi!  I play bass guitar.

When did you start learning to play music?

About 7 years ago I started on alto saxophone.  I then moved to bass guitar about 3-4 years ago. 

What school ensembles do you play in? 

I play in the Senior Stage Band and Rockband B.

Who is your instrumental music teacher/s at Doncaster SC? 

Joshua Verco. 

 What is your favourite song or genre to play? 

At the moment is it Yo Me Songo, which I played a rendition of for my Year 12 Solo Performance Piece. 

What bands or musicians do you like to listen to or have influence you a lot? 

I like a bit of everything but more recently Aretha Franklin, Joni Mitchell and Hiatus Kaiyote. 

What is your most memorable performance to date? 

Performing for the Doncaster SC Talent Show on music camp. 

What non-musical hobbies or interests do you have? 

I love playing hockey and going out for a run every now and then. 

What do you hope to achieve with your music in the future? 

I'm not 100% sure just yet, but as long as I’m doing something related to music, I’ll be happy! 

What is your favourite food to eat? 

Sushi :) 

What is the silliest thing you’ve ever said, done or worn (Chicken Suit?)? 

I tried to put every piece of clothing I owned on all at once!

Thank you for sharing your journey into music with us, Oscar!

Music in 2021

IMPORTANT DATES

September 9 – Rock Showcase

October 19  – Spring Concert