We now have an ARIA award winner on staff.

Our saxophone teacher Mr Dean Hilson’s band, Melbourne Ska Orchestra won the award for Best World Music Album.

Dean played on this Album and did most of the arrangements for it. Many of you will know what a fabulous tutor he is, with outstanding results for his students. He is a wonderful team player as well – always at our concerts, stage-managing and problem solving. Congratulations Dean!

It is worth reminding our community that so many members of the Music Faculty are highly skilled performers, currently working both nationally and internationally.

Our staff make every effort to be at School and deliver lessons sequentially – as we know how important regular lessons are. However, on the few occasions when staff are away, they ensure that alternative arrangements are made or that lessons are ahead in number.

It is so valuable for our students to have these working practitioners at our School and we thank our families for their continued understanding of the complexities of providing the best tutors.

We also congratulate Mr Saska Ayris who has been away in the United States of America strengthening his reputation as an international composer for the many forms of electronic media and Mr Michael Dahlenburg, our wonderful cello teacher, who is currently completing a concert tour in Spain.

2017 School Pianist

We are delighted to announce our 2017 School Pianist.

Alexandra Garrett, 2017 School Pianist

Alexandra Garrett has been a vital member of our choral groups for many years, and her rich contralto voice underpins so much of the glorious sound of our Senior groups.

Readers may not be aware that Alexandra is currently working on her A.Mus.A (Piano) having successfully attained her 8th Grade AMEB (Australian Music Examinations Board) qualification.

We wish Alexandra all the best in this important role.

Ying You (Jenny) Wang, 2016 School Pianist

We would also like to thank our 2016 School Pianist, Year 12 student Ying You (Jenny) Wang, for the excellent playing she has provided on the School’s behalf this year. We wish her all the very best as she embarks on her examinations. However, Jenny still has a number of performances of the School Ode to go!

This bittersweet time is always difficult, as we prepare to say farewell to our lovely Year 12 girls. This year has provided yet another exceptional group of musicians and we look forward to seeing where their aspirations lead.

Please do not hesitate to ask for assistance on any matter relating to the Performing Arts. Our administrator’s number is 9828 3014 and you may also email on music@stcatherines.net.au with any queries.

Dates – Term 4

* Years 9-12 Speech Night – Tuesday 18 October – Dorothy Pizzey Hall

* Years 7 and 8 Recital – Tuesday 8 November – Myer Studio

* PFA Christmas Party – Friday 18 November

* Years 7 and 8 Awards Assembly – Tuesday 29 November – Dorothy Pizzey Hall

* House Arts Performance – Tuesday 6 December – Dorothy Pizzey Hall

* Senior School Christmas Service – Wednesday 7 December – Toorak Uniting Church