Performing Arts
As we settle into this term it is clear that many boys have committed fully to their co-curricular commitments in music and drama. Often it is difficult to find a balance between students' academic work and the many opportunities on offer at Scotch College. Co-curricular activities in Music and Drama can often be categorised as a 'slow burn' with regular, weekly rehearsals culminating in performances, tours or the like that are often seen by students as being a long way off in the distance. At times, Performing Arts pursuits suffer from a lack of instant gratification which can be gained in other areas. Learning an instrument or gaining the skills to perform on stage can be a long and difficult process, however, the benefits from students maintaining their commitment to these longer term goals can be profound, and can often shape students' lives well after they leave school.
I would encourage all boys to maintain their commitments to their Performing Arts pursuits. There will always be times when the workload can feel a little overwhelming, and it is at these times when communication is vital. All students and parents are welcome to contact staff at any time to discuss how best to achieve a healthy balance between all of your co-curricular commitments.
Congratulations to the Combined Scotch / PLC Symphony Orchestra (CSO) for their fantastic first performance for 2017 at the Rowing Assembly. The ensemble filled the stage and shows the depth of instrumental talent shared between the two schools.
Good luck to all boys and staff involved in the Middle School production of "Danny Champion of the World". This coming week will see all of the finishing touches added to the show before Opening Night. I look forward to the school community supporting this event by attending one of the three performances from Thursday 30 March to Saturday 1 April.
Thanks to all parents who continue to show their support of our Performing Arts programmes through their active involvement in our Friends' groups. If you would like to join either the Friends of Scotch Music (FOSM) or Pipes Band Parent Support Group, please let us know, or feel free to attend their next meeting.
Important dates for the Summer Term calendar are:
Week 8(B) | Tuesday 21 March | Commonwealth Day Youth Rally, Kings Park (8 A team pipers) | Kings Park |
Saturday 25 March | Hawaiian Ride for Youth (1/2 band) | Kings Park | |
Week 9(A) | Sunday 26 March | PLC Proms Concert | Quarry Amphitheatre |
Tuesday 28 March | MS Production Dress Rehearsal | DC | |
Thursday 30 March | MS Production - Danny Champion of the World (7.00pm) | DC | |
Friday 31 March | MS Production - Danny Champion of the World (7.00pm) | DC | |
Saturday 1 April | MS Production - Danny Champion of the World (2.00pm) | DC | |
Parents Ball - Year 12 Jazz Combo & Pipes and Drums (A team) | Playing Fields | ||
Week 10(B) | Monday 3 April | Drama 12 ATAR Practical Exams | DC |
Tuesday 4 April | Drama 11 ATAR Practical Exams | DC | |
Term Break | Saturday 15 - Saturday 22 April | NIDA Tour - Sydney (SS Drama Students) | |
Saturday 22 April | Fairbridge Festival - Scotch Youth Voices, Senior Vocal ensemble & selected MS Music Students | Fairbridge, Pinjarra | |
Tuesday 25 April | ANZAC Day (selected soloists) | 6.30am Freshwater Bay Yacht Club | |
ANZAC Day Parade (Full Band) | Perth CBD |
Contact Details
The Instrumental Programme is administered by the Senior School Music Department and all queries should be directed to the Music Administrators, Julia Robinson (Monday to Wednesdays) and Donna Ranauro (Thursday and Fridays) via phone 9383 6841 or email music@scotch.wa.edu.au
Alternately, please contact Mr Chris McMillan, Head of Performing Arts, via email Chris.McMillan@scotch.wa.edu.au or phone 9383 6842.
If you wish to become more involved in supporting the Music Department, please contact FOSM@scotch.wa.edu.au
Mr Chris McMillan
Head of Performing Arts
