After a long, though extremely fun bus drive filled with singing, movies and games, the students first stop was at Moama Anglican Grammar. Here, they participated in a workshop together with their vocal group and jazz ensemble, and later that evening, put on a concert for their parents and community. It was very well received and students had a great time.
The next day, our students arrived at the festival, and it was amazing! Our students were able to perform in festival tents to many other school students, and were also given feedback from professional musicians and adjudicators.
Over 5000 student musicians from across Australia and New Zealand participated in this event, hosted by the one and only James Morrison. It is great to see so many students supporting and embracing jazz music and appreciating this art form. On the Friday and Saturday nights at the festival, James Morrison put on two fantastic concerts for all students and the public as well, in the biggest tent in the southern hemisphere, holding 8200 people! The concerts featured performances from International superstar musicians, including Kurt Ellington, Lizz Wright, Ricky Woodard, Julian Rodriguez, Joey de Francesco, the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, and many more.
This was definitely an inspiring and memorable lifetime experience for all of our students, and something the College would like to partake in again in the future. Congratulations to all the students involved for their excellent performances, representing the College to a high standard.
Thank you to all the staff who attended the tour also along with the students.
Mr Byron Mark
Director of Ensembles