The buzz and excitement about this year’s 秘色传媒’s Night of Jazz could not be missed around the Music department. Stage Band, Sisters of Swing, Groove Train and Planet Groove have all been rehearsing for many weeks in preparation for the night. They each performed several pieces of various styles with featured soloists. They played standards and set pieces in preparation for Generations in Jazz. The appreciative audience were delighted with the standard of performances, the authentic and expressive solos and the relaxed and intimate new venue, The Manningham Hotel ballroom.
Our special guest artist this year was Bob Sedergreen. He is a highly regarded international musician and his impact and influence in performance, composition and education for over half a century has secured his place as a national treasure. We truly believe he is the Godfather of Jazz in Melbourne! Our students felt both relaxed and excited to be performing with such a legend.
Joining the impressive line-up was our new vocal ensemble, A Capella Choir, led by Stephanie Hill. Singing the familiar ‘Come Fly with Me’, they soon had the audience tapping their toes. They are to be congratulated for performing so well.
This event is a major fundraiser for the Generations in Jazz festival and we would like to thank Tanya Ovens, (FOMPA/SPA) for all her assistance . The night was well supported with over 220 people in the audience and a most successful raffle with numerous prizes.
Congratulations to all students and staff for a wonderful night of Jazz.
Junior Band 2018
Year 7 music students eagerly made their way down to the new ensemble room for their first rehearsal on the 15 March. It was fantastic to see so many happy faces and hear such enthusiastic music making. Mr Nieuwkerk and Ms Patton were thrilled with their first rendition of "Hot Cross Buns". For most of the band, playing this three note song was a milestone as it was their first song! We look forward to watching their skills develop alongside their confidence.
Generations in Jazz / Jazz Workshop
This year Stage Band and Sisters of Swing will be heading off to the Generations in Jazz Festival in Mt Gambier from Friday, 4 May to Sunday, 6 May. They have been working hard preparing for this festival and are excited about performing in the competition and attending concerts featuring The Cat Empire and internationally renowned jazz musicians. In preparation for the festival we will be running a jazz workshop on 20 April from 4-8pm for both Stage Band and Sisters of Swing.
Soiree Dates
Following the success of last year’s series, we will again be running three lunchtime soirees next term on 18 April, 7 June and 14 June. We are encouraging all musicians to sign up to gain solo performance experience. This is highly recommended for students sitting AMEB examinations. We are also delighted to be running a fun and supportive Year 7 soiree to give our new music students the chance to show off their newly acquired skills. Sign up sheets will be on the noticeboard outside the ensemble room during Week 1 of Term 2.
