Music News

Vale Neill Duncan

We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Neill Duncan, who lost his courageous battle with cancer just after Christmas last year. Neill had tutored percussion and reeds at BMGS for the past 16 years.  During this time, he instilled a love of music in numerous young people, many of whom, through his influence and gentle guidance, have gone on to pursue their own careers in music. He also lent his considerable expertise in accompanying many students for their practical assessments and HSC performance exams. The fabulous student ensemble ‘Neill’s Armee’ performed at numerous Soirées, Spring Fairs and external events. Neill’s extensive contribution to the musical life of BMGS, and his ability to instil and nurture a love of music in his students, will be greatly missed. 

Co-curricular Music Ensembles

All co-curricular Music ensembles have commenced rehearsals this week. All students are most welcome to come and join our ensembles. Please see Mrs Smith or Mrs Cooney for more information on which ensemble is right for you, or sign up at the Music Office in the PAC. We are looking forward to a year of being able to play together!

Private music lessons and instrument hire

BMGS has an extensive range of music tutors available to give private lessons on-site during the school day. You can view instrumental and vocal tutors on our tutor information page www.bmgs.nsw.edu.au/music-department/. Feel free to contact them directly to enquire about lessons.

The Music Department has a selection of band and orchestral instruments for hire. If your child is interested in instrumental lessons and doesn’t yet have their own instrument, please contact Ms Downs in the Music Office to discuss availability (mdowns@bmgs.nsw.edu.au). 

Drum lessons

Mr Cameron Smith (BMGS Alumnus, 2016) has a BMus in Contemporary Music Performance and is offering drum lessons in 2022.  Cameron has studied with industry professionals including Rick Grossman from the ‘Hoodoo Gurus’ and performed with members of the ‘Wolfmother’ Band. In 2020 Cameron established the BMGS Rock Band which rehearses on Monday afternoons. Having played drums for the last 13 years, Cameron also tutors drums and percussion privately. You can contact Cameron directly on camysmith@hotmail.com or 0456 619 325.

Diary Dates

HSC Encore excursion: Monday, 21st February or Tuesday, 22nd February, 7:00pm, City Recital Hall 

Soirée Benvenuto: Tuesday, 8th March, 7:00pm, PAC Recital Room 

Mrs Debbie Smith

Head of Music