2024 School Magazine

Music

Band

From Gala to Spring Band Concert, to afternoon workshops and assembly performances—2024 has been a rewarding year for our band girls. Highlights include: workshops with guest conductors Ms Jones and Mr Kucharski; Wind Symphony’s performance in the Queensland Youth Music Awards; Wind Band and Wind Ensembles combined performance at our Movie Band Concert; and sharing the stage with the Unladylike Big Band at our Jazz Concert.

One of my personal highlights of the year would have to be the New Zealand tour. It was not only an incredible privilege to be able to perform overseas, but it was an enjoyable experience which afforded the opportunity to sightsee and meet many likeminded musicians. I would like to thank all of the Music teachers and staff, and my fellow Captains for their unwavering support of their students. If I were to leave the Music students with a key message, I would say: take every opportunity—even when schoolwork feels all-consuming—to participate. Music—whether it be nailing a part in band or performing a solo—is always incredibly rewarding and memorable. Lisa Walsham (12R) Band Captain

Choral

2024 has flown by, and every day has seen wonderful things happening for the BGGS Choral program. Choirs, particularly those at Girls Grammar, are remarkable because they blend diverse voices into a unified, resonant sound that can evoke deep emotions and create a profound sense of community. The collective power of harmonised voices brings both intricate textures and a rich emotional experience to any performance. The concerts and events calendar for the year was jam-packed, but some of the most memorable highlights include: premiering Dorothy Rae’s original choral composition at the International Women’s Day Concert; Euphonix winning their section at the Queensland Youth Music Awards; Cathedral Concert; Open Day; and the entire Choral program performing at Gala. This year I’ve absolutely loved seeing all the new Year 7 faces who have joined Choir and are putting their whole hearts into

their music—something I had the privilege to witness as the MC at the Junior Choral Festival in May, when the girls performed for the very first time for their families. This year saw the introduction of the collectable Choir chameleon sticker, given out to the girls in non-auditioned choirs who attended every single rehearsal on time. This initiative aimed to, and was successful in, boosting enthusiasm for fully participating in and giving 100 per cent at rehearsals. The Choral community is truly something special; the support and encouragement shown for each and every girl is unparalleled and I have been so fortunate to find a second family among Choir at BGGS. A special thanks must go to our coordinator of choirs, Ms Clare Finlayson, as well as our incredible conductors and accompanists, without whom this year wouldn’t have been possible. Tessa Lloyd (12O) Choral Captain

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