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 …