Vaughan Fleischfresser is an internationally recognised music educator, conductor, speaker and advocate for music education. He has a modest following on Instagram, where he shares his thoughts on music education. They pop up in my feed quite often, and seemingly always at the right moment, providing me with food for thought, an opportunity to reflect, encouragement and validation. Recently this quote came across my feed:
‘For so many people, it’s music that lights their fire. It’s the one thing that fills them with confidence and hope, it gives them belief, it gets them through the day, it fills their life with friends and ultimately makes them happy. Everyone needs the light that music provides.’
I think the part of this that resonated the most was the suggestion that everyone needs the light that music provides. We see it all the time amongst our music students here at Carey, in the joy that being involved brings, whether in a band, a strings group, a choir or on stage in a musical. The energy and enthusiasm that emanates from them when they perform is such a privilege to be a part of. And we will share this many times this term as we approach another year of Victorian Schools Music Festival performances. The groups participating are well into preparing their programs and are looking forward to sharing those performances with the Carey community.
That light will also be on full display at the Vocal Cabaret on Monday 10 August. What a great night this is, being held this year in the MGH. Make sure you come along with your supper and enjoy a night of exciting performances from our vocal students, accompanied as always by our wonderful staff musicians.
It has also been exciting to witness the next group of students who will be starting in the beginner program as Year 7s next year. Having the opportunity to actually try the instruments at the Year 7 Expo ensures that they connect with an instrument that really suits them. Often, we see a child who has had their heart set on one particular instrument do a complete turnaround when they discover that there is another instrument out there that is even more suited.
It will be a busy but rewarding term and as always we look forward to sharing our music with our community.
Sally Davis
Head of Performing Arts
