Grammar Gazette- Issue 2, 2018

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MUSIC PERFORMS WELL AT GIRLS GRAMMAR

Students in the Prossima Program with Queensland Symphony Orchestra Mentors and Music Director, Ms Alondra de la Parra

‘When you play, it’s not about you, it’s about the music. Being able to portray emotions to people regardless of what language they speak, and where they come from, is an amazing thing to be able to do.’ Karen Sundar (11W), Flute The Education Partnership has provided aspiring musicians and music staff with the extraordinary opportunity to learn from the Orchestra’s Music Director, internationally renowned conductor Ms Alondra de la Parra, and professional musicians of the highest calibre. Ms de la Parra is passionate about musical education, and discussed her career and the importance of music with Principal, Ms Jacinda Euler, at the School’s Grammar Women event on 29 August. Ms de la Parra shared profound advice for Grammar girls in attendance, encouraging the audience to learn from others’ experience, and not to be afraid to ask questions. This Education Partnership extends on opportunities provided by the School’s music program, across the curriculum and co-curriculum. Each year, more than 900 students participate in the School’s Instrumental Music program, perpetuating the legacy of our first Music Master, Mr R.T. Jefferies—known as the father of orchestral music in the State and acknowledged as having the vision that led to the establishment of Queensland Symphony Orchestra. The School congratulates the students who performed with the Orchestra in (Not) the Last Night of the Proms for integrating seamlessly with the Orchestra and playing with precision, flair and confidence.

Music education is of fundamental importance for all young people and is a particular priority in a Girls Grammar education. Since the music program at Girls Grammar has aspired to challenge girls not only technically, but personally, extending their perceived horizons while imbuing them with a deep personal connection to music. Earlier this year, this commitment was reflected as 20 Grammar girls took to the stage in a breathtaking performance with Queensland Symphony Orchestra. These girls, ranging from Years 8 to 12, prepared for this performance through a series of mentoring sessions as part of the Prossima Program , within the School’s broader Education Partnership with the Orchestra. Musicians have also imparted their wisdom through the Musical Mentors initiative, in which Orchestra musicians rehearse with School ensembles. Musical Mentors culminates with the mentor joining the ensemble for a performance.

Orchestra Music Director, Ms Alondra de la Parra, in conversation with Principal, Ms Jacinda Euler, at a Grammar Women event on 29 August

GRAMMAR GAZETTE