Preparations for 2017

As you can imagine our preparations for 2017 are well underway.

Parents with students enrolled in Performing Arts lessons this year, both Music and Drama, will have received a letter via email outlining the “roll-over” process in place. It is important that any changes in enrolments are received this year so that we can plan staffing as accurately as possible for the coming year. Our Performing Arts Handbook has been printed for new parents, but we request that current parents access mystcatherines for their copy of the Handbook.

We have another exciting year planned, with a Years 5 and 6 Musical, Years 7 and 8 Musical, Senior Play and the Gala Concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre on September 1. We encourage all families with students from Years 5 to 12 to keep this evening free. It is a Friday night, in between Snowsports competitions. It will also allow the assessment tasks for Senior students to be scheduled more easily in the last two weeks of the term. As may be imagined, finding a date that is available, but which suits the School, is no mean feat, and I thank Mr James Brown, Head of Performing Arts, and the Leadership Team for their persistence and negotiating skills.

Years 7 and 8 Recitals

Now that Year 12 examinations have commenced, our focus in the Music Department is on the Years 7 and 8 performers, who are preparing for a solo and small ensemble recital on Tuesday 8 November. As always, these recitals aim to provide girls with much-needed performing experience in a comfortable atmosphere of support. Years 7 and 8 classroom work (large ensembles) will be showcased at the Awards Assembly at the end of November.

House Music

House Music Captains have been working hard on their arrangements for House Music. The skill development, as they learn to arrange, harmonise and notate, using the Sibelius program, has been wonderful to see. We know that you will love the 120 House Arts Celebration at the end of Term.

As this is a time when families assess the year and determine musical pursuits for the coming year, we encourage you to talk with your instrumental tutors or any member of the Music Faculty.

Ms Sandra Bremmers is at the Administrators desk and she will happily answer your queries or direct calls as required to any member of the Department. The Administrator’s number is 9828 3014 and you may also email music@stcatherines.net.au with any queries.

Music Dates for Term 4

• 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