Celebration of Song and Victorian Schools Music Festival

Last Wednesday night Donvale's choirs and worship bands showcased their talents at the annual Celebration of Song concert. What a joy it was to hear voices and instruments soaring, the musicality, skill and soulfulness of all these groups shining through every performance. We are so blessed to have such a strong choral and worship bands program (led by directors Mel Searle and Dave Tweedie) at Donvale. The evening is always one of the highlights of our musical calendar!

Then on the Friday the choirs followed this up with an impressive performance at the Victorian Schools Music Festival. The junior vocal ensemble, consisting of 100 students ranging from Years 3 to 6, delivered a captivating performance both live and online. Led by Mel Searle and Dave Bonfa and accompanied by Annabel Young, their rendition of Gravity, Firefly, and Listen to the Rain earned them a well-deserved gold place.

Next the intermediate vocal ensemble, consisting of students from Years 7 to 9, showed what they could do. Grace Bezemer and Rebekah Reichman delivered impressive solos in three splendid songs – Carry the Light, Zazz, and Stevie Wonder's Sir Duke. Recognition for this  ensemble's efforts also came in gleaming gold.

Finally the senior advanced vocal ensemble of Year 10 to Year 12 students took centre stage. In a tough competition against six other schools their stunning performance secured the ultimate award - platinum! Accompanied by Roger Nicholson and under the expert guidance of Mel Searle, the ensemble wowed the audience with performances of Nothin' Gonna Stumble my Feet, Singin’ in the Rain, and the soulful Towards Infinity. The depth of their voices and mature delivery left a lasting impression on all who attended.

Thanks must go to Janine Power, who efficiently managed logistics, transport and supervision, ensuring a smooth event day; and to accompanists Annabel Young and Roger Nicholson for their impeccable professionalism and support. 

A special tribute also to our dedicated choral director, Mel Searle, for her meticulous song selection and preparation, allowing the ensembles to give of their best.

Finally, congratulations to all three choirs – the junior vocal ensemble, the intermediate vocal ensemble, and the senior advanced vocal ensemble – for their exceptional achievements.

It was indeed a remarkable day filled with musical brilliance and success.