The second week of the school holidays saw 59 students and 7 staff embark on a Queensland Music and Dance Tour. The tour was filled with unique opportunities to develop their performances, serve the community, connect with peers and fun activities. Students had the opportunity to perform at Dreamworld, workshop with fellow students at Nambour Christian College, sing for the Community foodbank handout, play and dance with a state high school, and much more.
Dreamworld marked the vibrant opening of their performance schedule, offering both music and dance groups a dynamic stage to shake off any initial nerves by sharing their talents with the captivated park visitors before immersing themselves in the park's exhilarating attractions.
At Nambour Christian College our students participated in two collaborative sessions for music and dance. Our musicians were played alongside Nambour’s concert band playing a medley of Stevie Wonder and Queen hits, our musicians also sang and performed for the students in a short concert. Nambour hosted a lovely lunch, students readily connected with one another, sparking new friendships that enriched their overall experience.
The musicians were able to serve the community at Rivers Church of Christ by singing for those waiting to collect their food hampers, they were then given a tour of the process and were able to witness the tireless work of the volunteers that serve in this way. Following, the musicians headed to Mitchelton State High School to perform for the students. They were well received and encouraged by the audience’s enthusiasm for their performance. The final performance on this day was at a Brisbane retirement village where 100 residents came to watch and cheer on the students. Students were able to mingle with the residents following the performance which led to shared moments of joy, storytelling, and the creation of new memories for both students and older residents.
Our final day with the whole tour group gave the students the honour and privilege of participating in an ANZAC ceremony, laying a wreath, singing, and performing to honour the Australians who dedicated their lives to the Australia we have today. They were able to speak to a veteran who had served and thank him for his service. It was a solemn occasion to mark and the students conducted themselves with respect and pride, serving as excellent ambassadors for themselves and the school community.
A picturesque Brisbane farmers market served as the perfect final stage for the musicians, their delightful performance on a beautiful day drawing an appreciative audience and offering a satisfying and resonant conclusion to their Queensland tour.
The Queensland Music and Dance Tour was an exceptional opportunity for students to amplify their passion for music and dance through performance and learning, build camaraderie and empathy through peer interaction and community service, and experience the vibrant culture of Queensland in a fun and engaging way. It was a journey that provided invaluable opportunities for students to hone their artistic talents through diverse performances and workshops, cultivate a sense of community by connecting with peers and serving others, and create lasting memories through engaging and fun activities across the state.
Mr Lachlan Kennedy
Head of Music Ensembles