Grammar Gazette- Issue 1, 2016

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SINGING HIS PRAISES

‘THE NEUROSCIENCE OF SINGING IS PROVEN TO MAKE US HAPPIER, HEALTHIER, SMARTER AND MORE CREATIVE. AROUND THE WORLD. RESEARCH IS MOUNTING THAT DEMONSTRATES THE BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY SINGING’ (CREATIVITY AUSTRALIA).

He now leads a programme of more than 300 Grammar girls across seven choirs. ‘There are opportunities for every girl who wants to sing to be involved with four “all- comers” choirs across the year levels while keen choristers can extend themselves through one of three auditioned ensembles. More than 180 girls are also involved in group lessons where they receive tuition in vocal techniques, reading and ensemble skills. These lessons, as well as the number of “all-comers choir”, are the strengths of the programme.’ Mr Holley has combined his career in music education with interests outside of the classroom including as the Associate Director of Voices of Birralee, a Brisbane-based not-for-profit community youth choral organisation. His other contributions to choral music include Vice President of the Queensland Youth Music Awards since 2009, Choir Conductor of the Lord Mayor’s Carols in the City 2006–2013, Principal Guest Conductor of Gondwana Chorale since 2007 and both President of the Queensland and Northern Territory Branch and Vice President of the National Council of the Australian National Choral Association.

Girls Grammar Choral Director and Voice Teacher Mr Paul Holley knows first-hand the benefits choral music can have on people of all ages and has recently been awarded a Medal in the Order of Australia for his service to choral music. Mr Holley said he was humbled by the acknowledgment of his peers, particularly those young people he has worked with. ‘To know that I have made a small contribution to who they have become through our experiences together is something I cherish greatly’, Mr Holley said. ‘The highlights don’t necessarily come from performances, but more often helping students achieve their goals — whether that is in the classroom, in rehearsal or on stage. Witnessing the growth in confidence and self-expression in our young women is a privilege. ‘To be a part of the exploration of music, and transformation from music being dots on a page to a transcending experience for choristers and audience alike is the most rewarding part of my choral work.’ Mr Holley has been at Girls Grammar since 1998 in a variety of roles, including Head of Gibson House.

AUTUMN ISSUE / 2016