Scotch College

The foundations are important

The fretful weeks leading up to the Foundation Day concert are laced with apprehension, fear... and a great trust in the abilities of the Scotch students. This year the concert lived up to all expectations of a high musical standard and a diverse program, punctuated with more songs from the choir and the massed singing.

The introduction of ‘Advance Australia Fair’ showed how the choir and vocal arrangements have progressed to a high standard under Mr Hunter. Soloists Alexander Hua and Oliver Blake were exceptional, playing the violin and xylophone respectively in what was an internationally flavoured choice of movements from Spain to Japan.

The Symphonic Wind was a highlight as they undertook an enthusiastic African-influenced piece. The percussion spotted around the hall added to the overall impact and the use of voice was cleverly mixed in with the music to bring the first half of the concert to a close.

The second half opened with crowd favourites of the Military and Pipe band, and everyone enjoyed their choice of music. The Showband under the leadership of Roger Schmidli lightened the evening with its rendition of ‘Manteca’ by Dizzy Gillespie followed by the Sesame Street theme.

The College Choir and Chamber Choir showed their versatility, performing spiritual songs and then moving to Biebl’s ‘Ave Maria’. Director of Music John Ferguson then treated the audience to A Night at the Opera, where the massed singing came into its own with pieces by Wagner, Verdi and Bizet. A highlight of this section was ‘Nessun Dorma’ performed by Peter Mander, a voice teacher in the Music School. The evening was brought to a close by a most enjoyable rendition of the Toreador Song from Carmen, performed by soloists Matthew Cameron and Aleksy Bialecki, supported by the whole School.

John Ferguson and the entire music staff are to be congratulated for the effort that they give to music at Scotch; it is only through the public events that we gain an insight into the work that goes on in the James Forbes Academy. Also, congratulations to the students involved in the concert, many of whom were often involved in multiple items. Their talent never ceases to amaze.

‘Well done Scotch, the boys are calling’.

Paul Runting

Jazz Cabaret

The annual Jazz Cabaret is a hugely popular occasion, with tickets generally sold out well before the event. With this year’s quality of performances, it is easy to see why. Fine performances were enjoyed from the Monday Big Band under the direction of Megan Philip, the Cardinals – that distinguished vocal quintet – and the Show Band. The audience danced to Monday Big Band, and listened appreciatively to this year’s special guest artist, Nina Ferro, who brought with her a highly polished trio with distinguished Melbourne jazz musicians such as Frank Desario (bass), Joe Chindamo (piano) and David Beck (drums). After Nina’s wonderful performance, she was joined by Big Band, comprising members of the Scotch Show Band and staff. The evening concluded with much dancing to the Scotch Show Band under the direction of Roger Schmidli who deserves much credit for organising this superb evening. Our thanks also go to the Music Auxillary, who for the first time handled the ticketing.

John Ferguson