2023 School Magazine

GALA CONCERT

This year’s Gala Concert was themed Elements—Sky above, earth below peace within . The massed concert explored the elements of fire, water, air and earth, featuring guest musician William Barton, 2023 Queenslander of the Year and master of the didgeridoo. Some highlights from the night included Julie Giroux’s Composition Before the Sun , which explored the earth below and the profound beauty that lies beneath the surface. Vocalist, Jacqui Trappet (12O), then accompanied the Big Band, showcasing her artistry in her solo of Ain’t No Mountain High Enough . Next, violin soloist, Irene Shim (12G), took centre stage to perform a breathtaking rendition of Henryk Wieniawski’s Concerto for Violin in D minor , third movement. Earth, Wind and Fire’s iconic Fantasy also swept audiences away with vibrant energy, reminding us of the universal language that music speaks. Further, Naomi Dooley (12E) and Freya Smith (12E), captivated audiences with Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Singers accompanying them in their masterful performance of Cody Fry’s Underground . The concert also featured Frode Fjelheim’s enchanting composition, Vuelie , which captured the essence of the heavens above.

Students and staff were also thrilled to present a specially commissioned work this year, Origins , by the talented Brian Balmages. This composition traced the origins of our existence, and was written especially for our Symphony Orchestra, choirs and William Barton. Finally, the grand concert ended with an Elements Medley , involving the Symphony Orchestra and Massed Treble Choir, and featuring student soloists. Performing at QPAC for the first time was a truly special experience, and students are immensely grateful to Ms Davidson, Ms Harper and the Instrumental Music staff, without whom this concert could not have happened. Kiara Chang (12B)

SKY ABOVE, EARTH BELOW, PEACE WITH I N

114 | BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 2023