It was wonderful to host our School community at the Junior School Concert last night – and what an event it was! 

The excitement had been building over the past few weeks as rehearsals became more serious, and the girls could see all their efforts combining to make the night a truly special event – and they certainly delivered! 

There were so many aspects of the Concert that made it a wonderful evening of music, friendship, and community.  

Our 2022 Music Captains, Annika Gill, and Liana Lam, spoke about the importance of role models who inspire. They spoke about looking at the Year 6 girls performing when they themselves were much younger and wanting to play and perform just like them. Both of these very talented girls, along with many of their Year 6 Cohort, gave exceptional performances last night. I am sure they have inspired many of our younger Barbreck students. 

All our performers last night showed great confidence, even our most timid Prep students. This is testament to the wonderful rapport and trust built throughout the year between the girls and their teachers and tutors.  

The excitement of being on stage and being part of a performance was priceless! You could see it in the faces of all our girls – they were so proud of themselves and proud to be a part of the Concert. This was particularly evident at the end of their performances when they were receiving applause from their very proud parents and teachers! 

The breadth of musical performances were amazing for a small school like Barbreck. We have so much to offer the girls. The Ukulele Ensemble was introduced this year and made an immediate impact with all Year 3 girls learning this instrument. The Xylophone Ensemble has grown considerably and gave a mesmerising performance – I know most of us in the audience wanted to have a try of the instrument ourselves. 

The highlight of the night was the standard to which our girls performed. I congratulate them all for the confidence, perseverance, and pure joy they delivered during rehearsals and on the night. 

Congratulations and thanks must also go to the amazing team, led by our Performing Arts Coordinator, Miss Kristen Dhono Isworo, who teach, nurture, encourage, support, and challenge our girls. Kristen was supported by Mr Nick Grunden, Head of Music, and a wonderful team of talented musicians and conductors. The final performance, led by Ms Juliana Kay, was outstanding and a wonderful finale to the evening. 

Our girls were the stars last night! Congratulations. We are all so very proud of you!

Ms Karen McArdle, Head of Junior School