Scotch College

The Years 5 and 6 Music Concert

Scotch’s Year 5 and 6 musicians filled the Ian Roach Hall for a sophisticated and enjoyable showcase of their musical skills – and those of some staff.

WORDS: Ms Kate Ikinger Photography: Ms Jocelyn Pride

On the evening of Thursday 18 June 2009 the Ian Roach Hall was filled to capacity for the Years 5 and 6 Winter Concert. The concert was a celebration of the Junior School music program and a triumph for the boys, their families and the music staff.

The audience was welcomed by Jenni Allen, the Junior School Head of Music, who spoke of passion for music and how Scotch College regards music as an important facet of a boy’s life and education: ‘Too often in our society, music educators are asked to justify their subject; however, we here all know just how important this art form is to our daily aesthetic lives. It is intangible, always inspirational and an indisputable aspect of, quite simply, being human’.

The repertoire selected for the Winter Concert was chosen to practise good musicianship and technique, while also being enjoyable for both the performers and audience.

The Junior School Concert Band opened the evening with rousing renditions of Fighting Falcon and Spinning Wheel. The audience could only wonder at the obvious teamwork and professionalism of the band. It was difficult to believe the musicians were Junior School students and that a majority of the rehearsals were a part of their regular music program. With closed eyes you would assume you were listening to seasoned professionals.

The night continued on a high note, with performances ranging from the big Concert Band, to intimate ensembles, to the Years 5 and 6 Massed Choir. Reflecting the selection of instruments the Junior School boys can learn to play, and play well, was the range of ensembles performing, and the complexity of their pieces. The Year 5 String Ensemble performed Soliloquy, The Junior School String Orchestra delighted the audience with Dragon Dances and Secret Agent 440. Also performing upbeat compositions were The Year 6 String Ensemble, The Years 5 and 6 Brass Ensembles, Years 5 and 6 Woodwind Ensembles and the Suzuki Years 5 and 6 Ensemble.

Highlights included the Junior School Drum Corps’ Driving Down the Road. The Corps’ shared rhythm, from their marching feet to the drum work, was magnificent. The audience couldn’t help but tap their feet as the boys displayed precision beat work with such pomp and ceremony. Another highlight was the Junior School Choir’s heart-warming rendition of I Am Australian, featuring soloist Junho Kim. In keeping with the upbeat mood of the concert, Mr Peter Rickard took to the stage dressed as a pirate to conduct the Year 6 Woodwind Ensemble for the aptly chosen piece, Pirates of the Caribbean.

The night concluded with the stage being filled with the Years 5 and 6 Massed Choir, accompanied by various guest artists. Joining the choir on stage was the Head of Junior School, Guy Mason, on bass guitar, looking very impressive in a full chieftain’s costume, while Drama Teacher, Frank Donnoli, donned a cowboy outfit, complete with cowboy boots and arrows! Much to the delight of the audience they performed ‘Deadwood Stage’ (from Calamity Jane) and Rawhide.

The night was a resounding success. The concert showcased the talent, dedication and humour shared by the Scotch College music teachers. The concert demonstrated the range of instrumental teaching available to the boys, and the quality of the teaching. It celebrated opportunities, teamwork and meeting challenges. It was obvious to all who enjoyed the concert that the boys revelled in every minute on stage; there was a sparkle in the eye and a grin from ear to ear that reflected each performer’s personal triumph and pride. As always, the families should also be applauded for the invaluable support and the opportunities they offer their sons along their learning journey. GS

From top: Musician Henry Marcel; Violinist Ciaran Ho