music | Sydney Catholic Schools

Four ways to nurture your child’s interest in the arts

Performing and visual arts present so many opportunities for students to experience, discover, experiment, and learn.

Here are four ways to nurture your child’s interest as they develop a passion for creativity – and the life skills and confidence that come with it.

Build their confidence

Whether their curiosity leans towards drama, art, music, dance, or other forms of creative expression, there is great value in helping children to embrace their natural talent.

Manager of Creative and Performing Arts at Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS), Danielle Fuller, has worked in the creative and performing arts industry for more than 30 years as an educator, director, musician, and performer.

Danielle said the best way to encourage a child who shows an interest in the arts is to encourage them to get involved in creative activities, giving them time and space to develop their confidence within their chosen activity.

“Children are innately curious and will enthusiastically engage in creative play if given the opportunity,” she said.

“It is through creative expression that a child’s emotional wellbeing is supported.” – Danielle Fuller

Lead with positivity

Communication and expression are two ways children react to what they see, hear and experience.

As they develop their thoughts, feelings and ideas it is important that they receive positive feedback from those around them.

“Praising them is important and enabling them to find the area that they feel most confident in is also important,” Mrs Fuller said.

“Parents can support this at home through positive language, listening and discussing the challenges.”

“One of the best times to encourage children to continue learning is at the times when they are unsure about their skills. Talent helps them to build resilience and …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auNovember 27, 2023|

How music builds a healthy brain

The benefits of learning a musical instrument begin well before your child is playing sweet melodies with ease and enjoyment.

Research has shown that each tentative note can strengthen neural pathways in the brain and lead to learners who are more confident, resilient and self-aware.

The planning, monitoring, discipline and self-evaluation involved in mastering an instrument can be applied in other school subjects and areas of life.

Danielle Fuller, Sydney Catholic Schools’ Manager: Performing and Visual Arts, believes an arts-rich education from an early age can develop students’ creativity and self-expression and increase their motivation to learn.

This has a positive impact on school attendance rates, academic outcomes, and wellbeing.

A total brain ‘workout’

“Playing an instrument may be one of the best ways to help keep the brain healthy,” Mrs Fuller said.

Instruments like the violin, which require the right hand to do something different to the left, engage the peripheral nervous system which controls gross and fine motor skills.

The brain’s executive function, which plans and makes decisions, kicks in as a musician plays one part but keeps focus on the next.

“Couple that with the total sensory input – visual, auditory, and emotional all at the same time – and it becomes a total workout for the brain,” Ms Fuller said.

Embracing excellence

Sydney Catholic Schools supports students to grow their creative talents through collaboration with a range of industry experts from prestigious organisations including Opera Australia and Sydney Conservatorium of Music – part of the trailblazing Amadeus Music Education Program.

The program gives all students in years 3 to 8 at a Sydney Catholic school equitable access to instrumental tuition …

jaderamirezsydcatholiceduauSeptember 6, 2023|

Gezel’s meteoric rise to singing stardom on The Voice

The journey to stardom is often filled with unexpected twists, remarkable experiences, and the discovery of one’s unique voice.

St Raphael’s Catholic Primary School South Hurstville student Gezel, an exceptionally talented young singer, is currently making waves on the latest season of The Voice Australia as the youngest contestant ever.

At just 12 years old, she has managed to captivate the hearts of audiences and judges alike with her powerful performances and undeniable stage presence.

Gezel’s journey on The Voice began with a leap of faith and an unwavering passion for music. In a recent interview, she shared how her journey to the show was inspired by her family’s encouragement and her own love for the art form.

“I’ve been watching The Voice since I was really little. My family and I have always talked about me entering the competition and what a great experience it would be,” Gezel said.

One of the most striking aspects of Gezel’s participation in The Voice is her age. In an era where the minimum age requirements for singing competitions are usually around 15 years of age, Gezel’s presence as one of the youngest contestants globally is groundbreaking.

Her journey underscores the power of passion and determination, defying conventional age limits.

Gezel’s love of performing has been nurtured both inside and outside the classroom. She shared how Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) has been supportive of her artistic pursuits.

“I had previously only performed in front of a live audience eight times before my first audition on The Voice.

“One of these performances was with SCS for a musical showcase at Qudos Bank Arena, where I had the chance to perform in a stadium that holds 11,000 people,” Gezel said.

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but Gezel …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auAugust 28, 2023|

SCS and Pacific Opera unite for Australian premiere

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) has partnered with Pacific Opera to give students the opportunity to perform spiritually enriching music in a unique and professional setting.

In July, students from SCS were invited to perform at the Australian premiere of internationally renowned composer Paul Carr’s ‘Requiem for an Angel’.

Taking place within the beautiful St Francis of Assisi’s Catholic Church in Paddington, the performance provided SCS students with the unique opportunity to learn and partner with industry professionals and enhance their artistic development journey.

The partnership marks the first time SCS and Pacific Opera have joined forces. It offered students an unrivalled experience of immersing themselves in contemporary choral music, a deeply felt expression of their faith in God.

Artistic Advisor to SCS, Matthew Barclay has championed the collaboration and explained how the partnership offers a high-quality artistic development experience to guide students.

“Pacific Opera is a small but long-established and respected organisation. Their artistic leaders bring a wealth of experience, presenting the perfect partnership to showcase the exceptional talent within our schools.

“This is an opportunity for us to give our students real world experience and in turn, demonstrates what they have to offer to the industry. Students learn to extend their vocal techniques and sing in a challenging style that goes well beyond their typical repertoire.”

“We are committed to developing young talent and Sydney Catholic Schools arts programs act as a feeding ground for the next generation of exceptional singers and performers,” Mr Matthew Barclay said.

SCS students were invited to sit in on orchestral rehearsals, with a select number of exceptionally talented students joining the orchestra and choir.

This culminated in two performances at St Francis of …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auAugust 23, 2023|

Nurture your child’s inner performer

Sebastian Youseff dreams of being a famous actor.

There are loads of course pathways he could have followed to land his dream career.

With the hope of one day establishing a career as an actor, he chose a Performing Arts ATAR pathway at Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood.

Sebastian (pictured right) said he loved that the College allowed him to tap into his creative side.

“I want to go to NYU Tisch School of the Arts,” Sebastian explained. “If not Tisch, then NIDA or WAAPA (the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts).”

As a first step he is undertaking senior Stage 6 Drama and to complement his passion for the Performing Arts he is also about to complete a Certificate III in Screen and Media at Southern Cross, Sydney Catholic Schools’ only specialist performing arts college.

His passion for acting was sparked two years ago when he watched ‘The Lighthouse’.

“I thought that was great and joined The Art Umbrella (School of Performing Arts),” Sebastian, who is now in Year 11, said.

“There’s nothing better than doing a good performance, and people saying you were great!”

The journey to stardom

Southern Cross is now holding auditions for its 2023 Performing Arts stream.

Located in the inner-west of Sydney, Southern Cross is offering full-time and part-time enrolments in Years 9 to Year 12 as part of its “Ignite Your Passion” initiative.

“The Performing Arts stream provides a specialist pathway for gifted and talented students with experience in, and …

Isabell PetrinicSeptember 20, 2022|

2023 Performing Arts Auditions: Start your journey to stardom

Want to see your name in lights? Southern Cross Burwood will soon hold auditions for its 2023 Performing Arts stream.

Southern Cross Catholic College is offering full-time and part-time enrolments in Years 9 to Year 12 as part of its “Ignite Your Passion” initiative.

The Performing Arts stream provides a specialist pathway for talented performers with experience in, and a passion for, Dance, Drama and Music to get a foot in the door of their dream job before graduating.

Students have access to state-of-the art facilities and industry specific equipment to succeed, including a recently upgraded dance studio, 400-seat auditorium, dedicated recording studio and control room, green screen room (pictured right), music and drama studios.

All the programs are led by industry experts.

World at her feet

Year 12 student Madeline Safar (or Maddy, as she’s affectionately known) is pursuing a Performing Arts ATAR pathway at the College.

Studying a Certificate III in Community, Dance Theatre and Events has allowed her to follow all her passions and she has already secured her place as a full time student at Sydney performing arts academy ED5 International next year.

Maddy is pictured in the College auditorium. Photo: David Swift

The Certificate III lays the foundations for stricter dance training in her future pathway at ED5 International. There she will come out with an Advanced Diploma after two years, ready to see her name in lights.

Not that Maddy has been resting on her laurels.

She recently performed in the first Sydney Archdiocesan musical, Fame Jr., and she has performed in Grease The Musical mass ensemble at Qudos Bank Arena and in Wizard of Oz mass ensemble, …

Isabell PetrinicJuly 11, 2022|

Eisteddfod 2022: The results are in…

Over the past six weeks, Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) has showcased the amazing talents of its performing arts students at SCS’ second annual Eisteddfod. Today on World Music Day (21 June) we announce the winners.

During the 2022 festival more than 1,229 entries from 116 schools competed in over 53 solo and ensemble events in Instrumental, Drama, Dance and Vocal.

Now the ensemble winners are preparing to dazzle audiences at SCS’ first ever Eisteddfod Showcase on 23-24 June.

“We have been so impressed by the number of entries wowing our audiences at every event,” said Eva Spata, SCS’ supervisor in the creative and performing arts.

“I can’t wait to see what next year brings!” – Eva Spata

This year’s Eisteddfod entrants were judged by an array of internationally renowned luminaries including Opera Australia’s Simon Kenway.

A highly respected orchestral/operatic conductor, music educator and accompanist, Kenway was the Musical Director for the first working draft of Baz Luhrmann’s acclaimed musical romance, Moulin Rouge.

AND THE AWARD GOES TO…

Click below for the full list of 2022 SCS Eisteddfod place-getters. EISTEDDFOD RESULTS 2022

The highest scoring school across all events will be crowned at the inaugural Eisteddfod Showcase. Watch this space to find out who has won the 2022 perpetual trophy!

ABOUT THE SHOWCASE

The 2022 Eisteddfod Showcase will be held over two days – Thursday 23 June and Friday 24 June – from 7pm to 9.30pm at Southern Cross Catholic College, 17 Comer Street, Burwood.

Day 1 will feature the first place winners in: Rock Bands, Contemporary Music Ensembles, Drama Groups, Dance Groups and Large Choral …

AdminJune 21, 2022|

Eisteddfod 2022: What to expect

Sydney Catholic Schools’ second annual Eisteddfod takes centre stage from Friday, 20 May 2022.

During the festival students from 116 schools will compete in more than 53 solo and ensemble events in Instrumental, Drama, Dance and Choir. And, for the first time, selected winners will be invited to perform in an Eisteddfod Showcase.

Sydney Catholic Schools has also announced additional competition dates in 2022, adding two more weeks to the Eisteddfod calendar.

This year the Eisteddfod will run for six weeks until 24 June on Fridays and Saturdays.

“It’s a very exciting time to be a young performer in a Sydney Catholic school,” Sydney Catholic Schools’ Supervisor in the creative and performing arts, Eva Spata, said.

AT A GLANCE

292 – Piano Solos Entries

281 – Dance Entries – Solos & Ensembles

387 – Vocal Entries – Solos & Ensembles

180 – Instrumental Entries – Solos & Ensembles

89 – Drama Entries – Solos & Ensembles

Most performances will be held at Sydney Catholic Schools’ dedicated performing arts high school, Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood.

Marist College Eastwood will host Instrumental Ensembles on Friday, 10 June, and Choir Ensembles will be held at Marist College Penshurst on Friday, 17 June.

EISTEDDFOD SCHEDULE

The 2022 Eisteddfod covers the following categories:

Friday, 20 May: Rock and Contemporary Bands
Saturday, 21 May: Instrumental and Piano Solo
Friday, 27 May: Drama Groups
Saturday, 18 May: Drama and Vocal Solos
Friday, 3 June: Dance Groups
Saturday, 4 June: Dance Solos
Friday, …

Isabell PetrinicMay 19, 2022|

2021 HSC Virtual Showcase: Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Arts

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) celebrates the final selection of students who have been included in the 2021 HSC Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Arts Showcases.

Following a rigorous selection process by an experienced panel, 72 students were selected in the showcases after demonstrating outstanding talent in creative and performing arts. Click here to view the showcase selection list

These students were selected from 173 nominations submitted by schools for exemplary work in their practical components of the HSC courses.

The HSC Creative & Performing Arts Showcases provide a professional platform to celebrate exemplary students of Music, Dance, Drama and Visual Arts while also serving as a benchmark of excellence for younger emerging talent.

Although the showcases were planned to be unveiled in a series of in-person events, COVID disruptions mean that this year they will be presented virtually.

https://vimeo.com/694170049/21d437958f Click here to view the performing arts program Click here to view the Visual Arts Showcase Click here to view the visual arts program

Eva Spata, Supervisor: Creative & Performing Arts at SCS, praised the cohort for producing some exceptional artistic pieces in what was a difficult year for students.

“Congratulations to the students who have been included in the showcases as well as those who were nominated by their schools,” Ms Spata said.

“This has been a challenging time for all students, particularly those completing the HSC but we were extremely impressed with what our students submitted” – Eva Spata

“The showcases are a wonderful way to celebrate their tenacity, commitment and talent,” Ms Spata added.

domenictrimboli01March 31, 2022|

Revealed: Lockdown Arts Festival Winners

We’re excited to share with you the winners of Sydney Catholic Schools’ Lockdown Arts Festival.

Themed Looking outwards from a life in lockdown, the festival celebrates the joy, creativity, optimism and resilience of our Sydney Catholic Schools’ community during the pandemic.

Launched during lockdown, our Sydney Catholic Schools’ students, families and staff submitted more than 900 creative works showcasing their incredible creative talent.

Please CLICK ON THE CATEGORY NAMES BELOW to see, hear and read the amazing works of all our category winners and highly commended artists.

Dance

CONTEMPORARY Classical

Visual Arts

Painting and Drawing Photography Sculptural

Drama

Monologue/Duologue Scenes from a Play

Literature

Poem Short Story

Music

Original Composition Performance

Congratulations to all of our winners and participants. You really have done us proud!

AdminNovember 10, 2021|

Song of hope proves a lockdown winner

An original song by Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary School Mt Pritchard’s Year 3 Green class was one of the standout category winners of the Lockdown Arts Festival.

Written by Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary School Mt Pritchard music teacher, Samantha MacBride, and performed by the school’s Year 3 Green class, Windows is an emotive ballad about being hopeful for the future that lies ahead.

The song speaks about Year 3 Green’s own experiences of life in lockdown and was also influenced by Miss MacBride reflecting on the recent loss of her mother.

Performed virtually by Miss MacBride and Year 3 Green, Windows was one of 900 creative works submitted by Sydney Catholic Schools’ students, families and staff during the festival.

The song was awarded first prize in the Music – Performance, Primary Class category of the Sydney Catholic Schools’ Lockdown Arts Festival.

The bright side of life

Before writing the song, Miss MacBride said she asked Year 3 Green to reflect on their experiences of life in lockdown.

“I decided to ask the children about the things they missed, the things they were looking forward to, how life has changed and how they were feeling about getting back to normal,” Miss MacBride said.

“I used some of their reflections, words and phrases to then put the lyrics of the song together, with some of my own thoughts intermingled as well.”

Miss MacBride said she also set out to have the song speak about God’s role in helping us overcome adversity.

“In school, we talk about our strong faith in God to see us through tough …

domenictrimboli01November 9, 2021|

Auslan meets Yawuru language in ‘I Am Australian’

Auslan meets Yawuru language in St Mary – St Joseph Catholic Primary School Maroubra’s virtual choir rendition of ‘I Am Australian’. Watch it here:

A group of 50 students in Years 3 to 6 at the school lent their voices to the virtual choir, singing Bruce Woodley and Dobe Newton’s classic anthem ‘I am Australian’ in Yawuru – the Indigenous language of the Kimberley region.

Students also learned to sign the lyrics in Auslan (Australian sign language), thanks to their music teacher Rachel Scott.

They learned the song as part of St Mary – St Joseph’s extensive choir program.

It would have been performed at a NAIDOC assembly but the live event was twice cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead it was taken online.

“This was a way of celebrating singing and learning, and producing something that would make the school community smile” – Principal John Farrell

BRAIN-BOOSTING BENEFITS OF LEARNING LANGUAGES

“Learning language is so important for brain development; it’s also easy to do this through song,” said St Mary – St Joseph Principal John Farrell.

“I had met an (Aboriginal) Elder who gave us permission to teach the Yawuru verse, and our music teacher, Rachel Scott, had done some Auslan signing before.

“The children loved learning both of these languages.”

Mr Farrell said St Mary – St Joseph’s had a rich history in singing and musicianship inspired by Mrs Scott from the Australian Children’s Music Foundation.

Sound engineer Ben Sibson created the backing track and students recorded their parts individually to contribute to the whole.

“Singing gives everyone a sense of community” – John Farrell

“This is something that has been lost during at-home learning, so this was a way of rebuilding this …

jaderamirezsydcatholiceduauNovember 4, 2021|

Online HSC Masterclass a big hit

More than 500 creative and performing arts students and teachers from Catholic dioceses across NSW took part in Sydney Catholic Schools’ inaugural four-day Arts Virtual Masterclass.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ creative and performing arts specialist, Eva Spata, said the HSC exam preparation courses were taken online due to the current COVID-19 climate.

According to Ms Spata, the online program was a resounding success and will be repeated in 2022.

“We look forward to providing these again next year!” – Eva Spata

“We have decided that every September holiday the masterclasses will be on zoom, rather than face to face,” said Ms Spata.

Online HSC Arts Masterclass

“With the current conditions, the ability to provide them virtually meant that we could share with our counterparts across the state,” Ms Spata said.

“We were fortunate to have industry experts and arts practitioners delivering each workshop, to prepare our HSC students.”

These included literacy consultant Dr Trish Weekes who delivered a workshop on HSC Music 1 aural exam and Sydney Catholic Schools’ education officer Mary-Anne Boutros who delivered a workshop on the HSC Visual Arts written exam.

Indigenous Australian dancer, television presenter and choreographer of Bangarra Dance Theatre’s Terrain, Francis Rings, was among the workshop facilitators for the HSC Dance written exams.

“It has been a marathon for our Drama students, covering six plays,” said Ms Spata.

The facilitators were:

Illuminate Educate’s Anne Wilson (presented on Neighbourhood Watch by Lally Katz)
Laurence Coy (presented on Norm and …

AdminOctober 5, 2021|

Watch it NOW: Sydney Catholic Schools’ first Virtual Choir

A creative response to singing restrictions at the height of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic has united the voices of 260 Sydney Catholic Schools students and staff and prompted an exploration of new modes to engage its school communities in the arts.

A virtual choir video clip – which shows students from Kindergarten to Year 12, staff, teachers, parents and alumni singing Christian hymn ‘For the Beauty of the Earth’ by John Rutter in unison online – was officially launched on Sydney Catholic Schools’ Facebook page on Friday 17 September.

Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools, Tony Farley – also part of the choir – said the video premier highlights the unity it inspired at a time when many worked in isolation.

Our joyful hymn of praise

“I am delighted that the simple act of singing for this project has created something so joyous and inspired such collaboration among our staff,” Mr Farley said.

“The resulting video is a beautiful reminder of the agility of our educators and the knowledge, skills and positivity they bring to the challenge of educating more than 70,000 students amid the ever-changing measures in NSW to contain the spread of COVID-19” – Tony Farley

Sydney Catholic Schools’ creative and performing arts specialist, Eva Spata, said some staff and students were invited to record their part in the project in Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood’s professional recording studio under strict COVID-19 guidelines.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ specialist in the creative and performing arts, Eva Spata.

“The virtual choir was an opportunity for our community to sing together when they had not had a chance to for so long due to COVID restrictions,” Ms Spata said.

“This song was …

Isabell PetrinicSeptember 20, 2021|

John Burland new song release

Singer-songwriter extraordinaire John Burland has unveiled a beautiful new song, titled Embrace Me Lord, penned during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown.

“At the time I was very much aware of the suffering and difficulties facing so many people around me,” said Mr Burland, Sydney Catholic Schools’ Education Officer: Archdiocesan Liturgical.

“It was also a time when I was dealing with caring for my Mum in palliative care and coming to terms with her diagnosis and what it meant for our family.

“For me, it was a time of great faith and prayerfulness, even through some of the darkest nights.

“My hope is that the song reminds us all that no matter how challenging and difficult the road becomes, we are blessed to have a God that always loves us and carries us in times of need.”

Isabell PetrinicJuly 13, 2021|

Drum roll please for … SCS’ Eisteddfod results

Over the past four weeks, Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) has showcased the amazing talents of its performing arts students at SCS’ inaugural Eisteddfod. Today on World Music Day (21 June) we announce the winners.

The Eisteddfod was held over four Fridays at SCS’ first dedicated performing arts college, Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood, where students competed in more than 400 solo and ensemble instrumental, drama, dance and choir performances.

The performances were judged by an array of internationally renowned luminaries including award-winning vocal artist, dancer and actress, Rachel Beck. Beck has a long spanning career performing in stage and television productions, including Beauty and the Beast, Les Miserables, Home and Away and Hey Dad.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ specialist in the creative arts, Eva Spata, said the events were an opportunity to recognise and celebrate students’ performance skills in a supportive environment.

“Our Arts Team has been overwhelmed by the positive feedback from schools over the past few weeks,” Ms Spata exclaimed.

“We have seen such amazing talent up on stage day after day, and we are excited that the arts are well and truly alive and thriving in our schools!” – Eva Spata

“What an honour it has been to be entertained by our amazing students,” said Ms Spata. “We can’t wait for next year’s event – it will be even bigger and better!”

READ MORE ON THE ARTS:

AdminJune 21, 2021|

Sydney Catholic Schools’ first Eisteddfod

Students from 92 schools will grace the stage in more than 400 solo and ensemble instrumental, drama, dance and choir performances, as part of Sydney Catholic Schools’ first Eisteddfod.

The Eisteddfod will be held over four Fridays at Sydney Catholic Schools’ first dedicated performing arts college, Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood, starting on 28 May.

Points will be awarded for each place, certificate and participation. The school with the highest point score will become the inaugural champion and receive a perpetual trophy.

Sydney Catholic Schools’ specialist in the creative arts, Eva Spata, said the events were an opportunity to recognise and celebrate students’ performance skills in a supportive environment.

“Every opportunity to perform develops students’ confidence and self-belief” – Eva Spata

Music mavens: Marist Catholic College North Shore students Michael DeWit, Aleena Wiratunga, Jayden Wood, Poppy Douglass and Jasmine Franks will perform in the junior ensemble category of Sydney Catholic Schools’ first eisteddfod. Photo: Natalie Roberts

“Students will receive feedback from industry professionals, and this will help them refine their skills for future performances,” Ms Spata said.

“This is an opportunity for schools to show others what is part of the fabric of their own arts experience, broadening their audiences.

“It can also be inspiring for students to see their peers perform a different repertoire that they may not have experienced before.”

Marist Catholic College North Shore Year 7 student and trombone player Jayden Wood is part of an ensemble that will perform 60’s hits at the first of the eisteddfods.

“It’s fun to do performances for …

jaderamirezsydcatholiceduauMay 27, 2021|

Music Clip: Faith in the Future

To celebrate 200 years of Catholic Education in Australia, 35 of our schools collaborated with Father Rob Galea on a music clip called “Faith in the Future.”

The music clip for the song, composed by Father Galea, was filmed on location at 25 natural, cultural, religious and iconic venues around the Archdiocese of Sydney.

Congratulations to the schools featured in this wonderful clip:

AdminMay 26, 2021|

Best performing arts schools Sydney

The benefits of an arts education in school cannot be overstated, according to Eva Spata, Sydney Catholic Schools’ (SCS) Specialist: Creative and Performing Arts.

“Arts education is important for all young people,” Ms Spata said. “Besides the intrinsic benefits – such as students finding a voice to express themselves, having empathy, exploring their imagination and creativity – there are instrumental benefits.

“They include cognitive development, ‘learning how to learn’, and improved academic performance. There are also attitudinal and behavioural benefits, such as self-efficacy and self-discipline, along with improved attendance at school.”

What’s happening in the creative and performing arts at SCS

“2021 is an exciting year for the arts at Sydney Catholic Schools,” said Eva Spata, SCS’ Specialist: Creative and Performing Arts.

“Not only are we celebrating outstanding HSC results, we are offering so many new opportunities for students to perform and create.”

Excitingly, SCS has already this year launched a comprehensive music education program titled in 14 of its schools, providing students with orchestral instruments, as well as classroom and ensemble music lessons led by specialist teachers.

SCS’ inaugural Eisteddfod takes centre stage in June. Students can also audition for the first Sydney Archdiocesan musical, Fame, as well as SCS’ annual film festival.

Plus, Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood is for the first time offering full-time courses for students in Years 9 to 12 seeking a specialised education in the performing arts.

The college’s 2021 program includes the NESA board developed Music, Dance and Drama courses (all levels), as well as a Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events.

“The Certificate course is aimed at triple threat performers, who can sing, dance and act,” Ms Spata said.

How Sydney Catholic school students stack up in the performing arts

SCS’ creative and performance artists have been enjoying phenomenal success in the wake of COVID-19.

Singer-guitarist Chrystal …

Web SupportApril 30, 2021|

‘An exciting year for the arts’

Sydney Catholic Schools’ creative and performance artists have been enjoying phenomenal success in the wake of COVID-19, and the opportunities for students with an artistic flair to flourish are only increasing.

Singer-guitarist Chrystal Ruz from SCS’ ViVA Music 1 class of 2020 was recognised on the Encore Honour Roll for exemplary performance in the Viva Voce (Musicology) component of her HSC Examination.

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College Kensington student Jessica Wilson placed third in the state in the 2020 Music 1 HSC, while Bethany College Hurstville student Shae Acevski placed fifth in NSW in HSC Dance.

Singer-guitarist Chrystal Ruz of Bethany College Hurstville

And 12 SCS students were chosen from 9,000 entries to have their works displayed in the annual ArtExpress HSC showcase exhibitions.

Now SCS looks to debut a Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod. Students can also audition for the first Sydney Archdiocesan musical, Fame, as well as SCS’ annual film festival.

“Not only are we celebrating outstanding HSC results, we are offering so many new opportunities for students to perform and create,” said Eva Spata, SCS’ Specialist: Creative and Performing Arts.

“2021 is an exciting year for the arts at Sydney Catholic Schools” – Eva Spata

Excitingly, SCS has already this year launched a comprehensive music education program titled Amadeus in 14 of its schools, providing students with orchestral instruments, as well as classroom and ensemble music lessons led by specialist teachers.

Plus, Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood is for the first time offering full-time courses for students in Years 9 to 12 seeking a specialised education …

AdminApril 19, 2021|

Band brings hope

Patrician Brothers’ College Fairfield has brought the sound of music to a small town in Northern Italy via a video performance.

The idea came about after School Bands Australia’s executive manager, Laura Demicelli, heard of a competition to sing or play Albizzate’s town song,Gente di Albizzate.

Mrs Demicelli had attended a school in Albizzate, a town in Northern Italy, and wanted to send the message to her childhood neighbours that “Music is more contagious than the virus” and “Together (even far away) we will make it.”

She thought it would help raise their spirits during the COVID-19 crisis.

So she approached Patrician Brothers, a school with which School Bands Australia already had an affiliation, and a band was formed from students in the school’s music program who performed the song.

WATCH THE PERFORMANCE

THE COLLEGE CONCERT BAND

Patrician Brothers’ College’s music program provides Year 7 boys with an instrument each for a term to help encourage their participation in the College’s Beginners, Intermediate and Concert bands.

“To see boys taking an instrument home and to fall in love with it, gives me great satisfaction,” Principal Peter Wade said.

“In just two short years we have developed a culture where it is ‘cool’ to be a member of the College Concert Band” – Peter Wade

The music program is coordinated by the high school’s director of Music, Adam Lockwood, and supported by School Bands Australia’s executive director, Martin Davison, and a number of roving musicians who provide in-class tuition to the more advanced students.

“The concert band program has breathed new life into our college,” Mr Wade said.

“The opportunity for boys to find their passion in …

AdminFebruary 23, 2021|

i4give Day song released

Acclaimed Catholic musician John Burland has penned a moving song inspired by conversations with grieving couple Leila and Danny Abdallah, whose three children and cousin were tragically killed by a drunk and drugged driver at Oatlands.

I Forgive You has been released ahead of i4give Day (Monday 1 February), an annual forgiveness day being launched by the family and cousin Bridget Sakr.

The two families have taken the extraordinary step of forgiving the man behind the wheel as an important step in their grieving process and want i4give Day to be held every year on the anniversary of the deaths in memory of the children.

“As we free our hearts and open our minds, so we can heal and start again,” Mr Burland reflected.

Mr Burland, who is Sydney Catholic Schools’ Education Officer: Archdiocesan Liturgical Music, said he was asked to write I Forgive You by Mission & Identity Director, Anthony Cleary, and Robert Haddad, SCS’ Manager, Network Catholic Identity.

“This was seen as a unique way Sydney Catholic Schools could support and contribute to i4give Day,” Mr Burland said.

The lyrics of I Forgive You are heavily based on Scripture: Ephesians 4:32; Matt 18:21-22; Matt 6:14-15; and Psalm 130:4.

“As a songwriter you always also draw on your own experiences and certainly this song is no exception,” Mr Burland said.

“Like many others I have found that forgiving can be very challenging particularly when you are deeply hurt and saddened by others.

“But when we forgive we ‘free our hearts’ and show the love of God to others as we are called to do.

“We are sharing these song resources with Sydney Catholic schools and, where appropriate, our team will incorporate the song into their work as part of prayer and personal reflection.”

He described i4give Day as a time to reflect on our own lives and interactions with others.

“Are …

AdminJanuary 29, 2021|

Banding together through faith and music

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Youth Ministry Band is giving students like Marcus Edwards and Gala Alemany Traconis the rare chance to explore their faith through music.

Marcus and Gala, from De La Salle College Ashfield and Domremy College Five Dock respectively, said they both joined the band after learning about it from a friend.

The experience has been life-changing.

“It wasn’t until I joined the band that I actually realised how music can bring people together and help spread a message that can help and impact people positively,” said Gala, a self-taught musician who plays bass guitar, ukulele – and sings!

The Youth Ministry Band is an evangelical project of CaSPA, the performing arts program of Sydney Catholic Schools.

Gala Alemany Traconis.

The seven-member band rehearses weekly, with year-long rehearsals normally culminating in the annual Lights of Christmas performance interspersed with Sydney Archdiocesan evangelisation events.

However this year, because of the COVID-19 crisis, the band is working on a digital showcase and online masterclasses instead.

Gala’s father, Ivan, and Marcus’ mother, Denise, had nothing but praise for the band. Mr Traconis said he has seen his daughter’s confidence, social skills and discipline levels increase since joining.

“I totally recommend the Youth Ministry Band; for the young ones to practice their skills in music, and be part of a great community” – Ivan Traconis

Ms Edwards agreed, “having mentors who are active in Catholic faith has had a positive influence on the students involved.”

Marcus said the band has helped him realise just how important God is in his life.

Gala said, “Music can create communities, break down barriers, and inspire like minded people to do the same in their own way.”

She said she loved how passionate all the band members are about their instruments and how “even when it …

Isabell PetrinicDecember 16, 2020|

How a Sydney Music Teacher is Instilling Her Passion

Sydney Catholic Schools’ Amadeus Music Education Program continues to gain momentum at an unprecedented scale as one of the most comprehensive and ambitious investments to enrich the musical experiences and opportunities for Sydney students.

The program is delivered by accomplished educators whose dedication to being consummate musicians themselves fuels their passion for inspiring and nurturing the next generation of young talent.

One of these educators is Julia Pokorny, a dedicated music teacher at St Michael’s Catholic Primary School Belfield and Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School Cabramatta.

Outside of school, Ms Pokorny performs as an accomplished musician for the Sydney Contemporary Orchestra, Bourbaki Orchestra and Strathfield Symphony.

“I believe in the transformative power of music. Every child should have the opportunity to learn an instrument and experience the confidence and joy that music brings, regardless of their background,” Julia Pokorny said.

The launch of the Amadeus program at 147 Sydney Catholic Schools has only further heightened Ms Pokorny’s enthusiasm for teaching music.

She continues to feel fulfilled as she witnesses the joy and progress of her students.

“The future of music education is programs like Amadeus. As they continue to thrive, the lasting impacts on students’ lives are invaluable,” Ms Pokorny said.

Her involvement in orchestras has provided Ms Pokorny with a unique training ground, honing her skills and preparing her for challenges which she today shares with students to positively influence what she hopes will be a lifelong devotion.

“My passion for both performing and teaching fuels an enthusiasm that helps me bring a unique perspective to the classroom and further fosters my understanding of each of my students’ unique learning styles,” Julia Pokorny said.

Ms Pokorny’s journey into the …

baden.parkerbrown@syd.catholic.edu.auOctober 3, 1992|