Music has always been an integral part of St Catherine’s. Whether through the singing of the Ode at assembly, massed singing as a part of House Arts or, for many students, sitting in an early morning ensemble rehearsal preparing for one of the many performances throughout the year.  

The thread that binds all these experiences is the shared nature of making music together, bringing people together, and creating a sense of belonging. This is Music at St Catherine’s. 

There have been numerous studies looking at the benefits of music on the brain. Looking at its positive impact on cognitive development, improving memory function, and developing numeracy and literacy skills. However, after many years of working in Music Education, for me, the amazing part of music is seeing its impact on students every day. As a Music educator, I have seen all of these exhibited in the students I have had the privilege to teach and know.  

Bringing people together 

Music creates social cohesion, it speaks to all when words can fail, and wherever you go in the world, it is understood. Music is a universal gift and its power to connect people is without question. It is an art form with human interaction at its centre. 

Improving confidence and resilience 

In a digital age where many services and products are instantly available with the click of a button, learning a musical instrument provides a platform for people to achieve through discipline and perseverance. There are many skills required in order to learn how to play a musical instrument:  

• Technique;  

• Reading music;  

• Expression; and 

• Listening. 

As you continue to perfect these skills, you also build resilience. 

Music improves your health and wellbeing 

Music stimulates the brain which in turn helps with pain relief, reducing stress and memory. A study from Harvard has shown that relaxing music may lower blood pressure and heart rate after physical exertion. 

Music is a creative outlet 

Music provides an opportunity for people from all social and cultural backgrounds to express themselves. Whether it’s to convey a message, a particular emotion or just for sheer joy, musicians have used sound and music since the dawn of time as a way of expressing themselves and getting their voices heard. 

So, after all this, if you’ve been sitting on the fence about learning an instrument or joining a choir, I can only say it’s never too late and not something you’ll ever regret. You may even enjoy it! 

Since starting at St Catherine’s this year, there have been many highlights to reflect on. Looking back to Term 1, the Concerto Concert was a fantastic way to start the year off. Some of St Catherine’s most talented performers, along with students in our Jorgenson Orchestra and the amazing St Catherine’s Music staff, all under the direction of Mrs Lisa Cook, created a memorable evening of Music. Moving into Term 2 saw the ever-popular Jazz Night, and this year was no exception. There were amazing performances, along with the always popular Soul Band. Term 3 has seen over 120 students head off to Arrabri Lodge in Warburton for the annual Music Camp. A weekend of rehearsals that prepared our Senior School ensembles for our Spring Concert held on Tuesday night. Congratulations to all our performers at the Spring Concert. It was an evening that celebrated music, our students, and bringing people together. 

Finishing on a slightly sad note, I would like to acknowledge the retirement of Mrs Lisa Cook. Mrs Cook has been at St Catherine’s for 30 years, with the last 15 years as Head of Strings. Mrs Cook has created a String Program that is the envy of any school, but most of all has been a close colleague to many, as well as a constant source of encouragement and support for our students. While we are sad to see Mrs Cook go, we do wish her all the very best for her next chapter.