From the Principal

Last week, two significant music events involving College students served as the prelude to our Music and Drama Week. I had the pleasure of joining parents, grandparents (quite a few) and community members in the audience of John XXIII College's annual performance at St George's Cathedral as part of the ‘Concerts at One’ series. Our Chamber Choir, Senior Flute Ensemble, Senior Voices, Barbershop, Cello Trio, Senior String Quintet, Year 9 Wind Quintet and selected soloists all performed beautifully. In addition, the College’s annual Music Eisteddfod brought together students of all ages to perform to live audiences of peers and families, competing for House points to determine the winner of the Music Shield. 

Two additional, and a little more obscure, observations highlighting the importance that music and drama plays in our College life are probably worth mentioning, though. The first took place during our Secondary School Athletics Carnival. Instead of the expected immediate launch into the scheduled races for the day, I was thrilled to see our carnival commence with tightly choreographed dance routines from each House involving enthusiastic Year 12 students and staff, all adorned in costumes designed for maximum effect. The joy of all involved was obvious and the enthusiastic recognition from the crowd set the scene for what was an excellent carnival.

The second was during the Secondary School variety concert as part of our celebration of John XXIII Day. During the closing act of the concert, the audience witnessed another skillfully choreographed dance routine, but this time performed by the staff. The genuine and enthusiastic student response to seeing their teachers perform on stage says much about our College culture.

This week we have continued our celebration of music and drama with Jazz Night at the Ellington, 5-minute musicals on the Chapel Lawn, musical performances in the Pavilion, Homeroom quizzes and theatre sports opportunities. In the Primary School, preparations are well advanced for the upcoming Year 4 Musical, Little Shop of Horace, written and directed by Mrs Haydon (Primary Music Specialist), with grandparents enjoying the dress rehearsal today. 

I extend my thanks to our College Music and Drama staff for their expert organisation of Music and Drama Week. I also extend my thanks to the students across the College who so enthusiastically participated in the various music and drama offerings made available throughout the week.

Daniel Mahon

Principal