Making the most of our last moments with our performing arts students

This is the time of the year that the Performing Arts staff approach with a sadness that is also tinged with the excitement of what is to come. Why? We have to say goodbye to our Performing Arts students, many of whom have been with us in the program since Junior School at Kew or Donvale.

Farewelling them is always bittersweet as we know we will miss their enthusiasm, energy and leadership in our space, but we are also excited for what their futures hold. Our hope is that the performing arts will always remain an integral part of their lives. We do wish them all the very best for their exams and the new journeys they will all soon embark on – and we look forward to our current Year 11s stepping up and taking over where the Year 12s have so ably left off.

We hit the ground running this term going straight into auditions for our 2024 Senior Ensembles, the Senior School Music and Jazz in the Quad. The energy around the department has been palpable and the support and camaraderie displayed as young musicians negotiate nerves has been lovely to watch.

Jazz in the Quad was a wonderful event and thanks to Roger Schmidli and James Bradley for the work they have done over the year with these groups. It is so wonderful to hear the students performing with these groups and stepping up to take improvised solos on their instrument. A highlight of the evening is the All Star Band that features selected students from the Big Band supported by staff and guest performers. The impact of this experience for the students cannot be underestimated as they get to play alongside some of the top professional musicians in Melbourne. A big thank you to Friends of Carey Music for all they do in organising this event.

We are looking forward to starting our new Senior Ensembles next week and look forward to seeing you all at the Twilight Concert on 8 November.

Sally Davis
Head of Performing Arts