5 highlights of a music student
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Churchlands Senior High School music program, of which I am a proud graduate. A massive (by that I mean over 3hrs long) concert was held at Perth’s majestic Concert Hall on the 27th of June which featured live performances of various ensembles, as well as recorded videos of alumni performing music and talking about their time being a Churchlands music student.
Despite the discipline and commitment the program requires of students, it is a wonderfully enriching and fun experience, and one which I recommend to any student with a deep interest in, and love of, music. Let me share with you my top 5 highlights of my years as a music student.
The first harp I ever played on! Excuse the blurriness of the photo …
Being surrounded by inspiring and supportive teachers
My favourite teacher at school was a music teacher. I was always in awe of his demeanour and work ethic - not to mention he encouraged me when I was still unaware of my own capabilities and skills. Music teachers are a breed of their own: not only must they be comfortable leading a class like any other teacher, they hold a number of extra responsibilities, have a number of extra skills (think: conducting an ensemble, playing an instrument), and often work extra hours (rehearsals, camps, concerts). Being surrounded by such skilled musicians and teachers was inspiring and their support and respect helped me gain confidence in my own ability to make music.
Regular and varied performance opportunities
Performances at school occured on a regular basis. Between concert practice classes, music performance exams, end of term or semester concerts, orchestra festivals and choral festivals, there was always something going on. As a harpist, I was occasionally asked to provide music for functions and events. We often performed at various venues around Perth, including the Perth Concert Hall. Every couple of years, music students get to travel overseas for a music tour. All this to say that these opportunities provided me with an important insight into the life of a musician: the work, dedication and effort required. Furthermore, having constant performances to aim for gave my music learning a professional context, and motivated me to practise my instrument and develop my skills.
State-of-the-art facilities
By the time I was in my final year of high school, a brand new music department had been built. We had a number of new practice rooms, spacious music classrooms that could double as rehearsal spaces, an actual lift (which as a harpist, was incredibly welcome), and of course, a large auditorium with a stage large enough to fit a whole orchestra and a choir on risers. It was all just so impressive, especially through the eyes of my teenage self, and made our entire music education and performances feel so … professional. Having such spaces and equipment to make music in and with was motivating.
Missing out on class time because of rehearsals (okay, I’m only kidding)
Holistic approach to music education
On top of regular musical performances, music students have to attend music classes during the week. Looking back on my musical education, I am now very grateful that so many aspects of music were taught. I always say that doing music at school is like taking on three different subjects: theory/aural, music performance, and music history. Each branch of music reinforced and strengthened the two others. Even during classes, various methods of teaching were used - reading, singing, body movements, music listening and analysis etc. This approach meant that the theoretical, historical, practical or aural skills covered were not taught in isolation, and I could make connections between each component.
Excellent preparation for tertiary music education
Eventually, I became so passionate about music that I went on to study it at university. My years at Churchlands meant I had all the aural, theoretical and practical skills required to not only get accepted into the Conservatorium, but do well during my degree.
Overall, my time as a Churchlands Senior High School music student was unforgettable, and a necessary stepping stone to my career. Had I not met my teachers or been involved in so many performances, I would not be where I am today.
Happy 50 year anniversary to the Churchlands Senior High School music program. I hope it continues for decades to come.
—> Follow Churchlands’ Music Program Youtube Channel here
Eliza
