Term 3 Update
I realise I continuously write the words- I cannot believe we are up to... all the time at the beginning of a blog post, but I truly can't! We are almost at the end of one of the busiest terms of the year, and it's only going to get busier!! Students are working hard toward performance, exams, eisteddfodau, competitions, and the results are definitely showing. This term alone has brought two major events; the piano and instrumental portion of the Silkstone Eisteddfod for 2017, as well as the August session of AMEB exams- our first session for the year.
A huge congratulations are in order for two students; Melody and Ashleigh. At the most recent Silkstone Eisteddfod, Melody performed for the first time in the 12 years and under Consolation category, and walked away with a second place in the section. This student has been learning for a mere 12-18 months, and her dedication and hard work has certainly paid off.
Ashleigh also completed her first piano exam under the Australian Music Examinations
Board, and also after slaving away in practice, attained an Honours grading. First times are usually so very daunting for students, and most of the time anxieties or pressure to perform well does get in the way, however despite all of this, these two students have very much excelled. Congratulations once again girls, you have done fantastically!!
As well as congratulating students in their eisteddfod and examination results, congratulations to student Bronte on being announced as the Narrator for Ipswich Musical Theatre Company's production of Dear Edwina Junior, and a member of the ensemble for Ipswich Orpheus Chorale's production of Beauty and the Beast, playing between 13th - 15th October. Cannot wait to see your shows Bronte!
As a teacher, I believe it is very important to be a good example for students, particularly
in the area of music and performing. This is something I promote to my students on a daily basis- that getting up and having a go of something is much more important than the notes of the page. This is why I would like to share with you all what I have been up to in Term 3 in
my own world of performing. Over the last three months, I have been working as part of the ensemble in Ipswich Musical Theatre Company's upcoming production of Les Miserables, playing at the Ipswich Civic Centre between the 8th - 17th September. I have learnt so much in the preparation process of this show, through the direction of Christopher Bradke and musical direction of Robert Clarke. The cast is simply amazing, and will truly be a great show. For more information, visit the Ipswich Civic Centre website https://www.ipswichciviccentre.com.au/event/les-miserables/ or on the Ipswich Musical Theatre Company Facebook page. Check it out- there's a potential to win free tickets to opening night!
As well as this, on the 19th August, I was invited to be a backup singer for the Lord Mayor's Charity Gala Ball- performing a range of music from the musical Wicked, in celebration of the upcoming QPAC production of The Wizard of Oz, starting Jemma Rix, Lucy Durack and Anthony Warlow. The performance was such a magical experience, with so many talented people swarming the stage!
Now if you have managed to read all of what has happened in this term, you wouldn't believe it- but there's more coming up! Let's list just a snippet of what is coming up in the remainder of 2017:
AMEB Exam sessions- October
AMEB Exam sessions- November
AMEB Exam sessions- December
Silkstone Vocal Eisteddfod 2017
Individual student competitions
Whilst a short list, there is so much preparation, practice and dedication from students, parents and teacher that goes in- and we are running out of time! Again, just crazy to think we are almost at the end of such a wonderful year!! So students, make sure you keep up the practice, work hard, but above all remember to have fun :) Hopefully will get to write up some more updates soon, stay tuned for more!!
Yours Musically,
Miss Beck
