Southern Cross Soloists are proud to report that the 2012 SunWater and Stanwell Music School was a magnificent success, both artistically and educationally.
Now in its Sixth year, the 2012 camp saw 80 students from across the state and even across the border gather in Rockhampton for the week. Young musicians travelled from all over Queensland, including students from Ayr, Gladstone, Bundaberg, Cairns, Mackay, Mount Isa and Roma, as well as New South Wales. In total, 84% of participants were from regional Queensland.The teaching faculty consisted of some of Australia’s finest pedagogues. The tutors performed in staff concerts each night for the students, opening up the eyes of many who had never been exposed to quality live classical performance. Feedback from students after the camp revealed that this is one of the aspects they love most about the camp. It brings them into the professional world of performance and shows them what they're aiming to achieve.
The week was filled with large ensemble rehearsals, chamber music groups, choir rehearsals, masterclass activities and concerts, where students delved deeper into the world of music. The young musicians learnt about breathing techniques, practice plans, technical exercises, how to play as part of small and large ensembles and singing in a large choir (which was a first for many students - it started with trepidation and turned into triumph by the end of the week!).
The Finale Gala Performance at St Paul’s Cathedral on the Wednesday night was well attended and the students were very excited to show the audience the result of all their hard work.
white;">Guests were greeted by a cello ensemble as they took their seats. The concert began with a brass fanfare, which led into a night of choir, orchestra and band performances. The evening’s program was spectacular, with significant works Orff’s Carmina Burana and the Waltz from Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty. A highlight was the performance of the first movement of Beethoven’s 5th Symphony. The night ended with a standing ovation from the audience and a palpable buzz of excitement in the air.
Overall, the students, staff and parents involved with the event were thrilled with the outcomes: fuelling students’ passion for music, providing a wide range of educational and artistic opportunities, and meeting new people and building networks within the industry, which is a must for those planning on pursuing music throughout their tertiary years.
Due to funding cuts from the Australia Council and the cessation of Griffith University's sponsorship, the camp was scaled back this year, however the outcomes were just as real and moving as previous years, and the event was deeply appreciated by the students involved.
