Mid West music students shine in Sydney

Geraldton Schools Combined Band can put Sydney Opera House on their performance resume after showcasing their exceptional talent at the Australian International Music Festival in Sydney.

The combined band is made up of music students from Champion Bay Senior High School and Geraldton Senior High School, who spent weeks preparing for the adventure.

Fifty-five students attended the prestigious festival in July to share a once in a lifetime musical, educational and cultural experience with ensembles from around the world.  

During the week-long festival, students immersed themselves in workshops, rehearsal exchanges and performance opportunities at iconic venues such as Verbrugghen Hall, The Maritime Museum, the Conservatorium of Music, and the Sydney Opera House.  

Music teacher Anne Williams attended as the Teacher in Charge and said the trip was an unforgettable opportunity for the dedicated music students to enhance their performance skills.

“The trip enabled students to listen and compare themselves to other ensembles and look at where they could improve or know they are on the right track,” she said. 

“The workshops with world-class adjudicators will help them take their talents to a new level - they received so much invaluable feedback.  

“They were also able to witness some of the best ensembles in the world, including the Grammy-winning Ragazzi Boys Chorus.  

“The students were absolutely glowing when they arrived home and were already asking about the next trip.  

“The festival inspired their musical journeys." 

Following the success of the tour, the band now has its sights set on an international adventure, with Hawaii or New Zealand on the cards.