The quinquennial RESONATE Gala Concert, held at Sydney Town Hall, was a fitting celebration of ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë’s 135th anniversary and a testament to the dedication of our students, teachers, and mentors. Countless early mornings and rehearsals culminated in a spectacular evening of music, highlighting ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë’s enduring commitment to excellence.
The concert opened with vibrant vestibule performances by the Trumpet Ensemble, Intermediate String Quartet, and Jazz Ensemble, followed by an Acknowledgement of Country from Mr Braydon Mundy (’21), a proud Kamilaroi man, and Dominic (Year 11), a proud Torres Strait Islander. The evening showcased a diverse repertoire across ensembles, reflecting both ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë’s musical breadth and the high calibre of teaching. The Brass Ensemble performed a commissioned work by Mr Lachlan Massey, Director of Choirs, while Symphonic Winds delivered a captivating performance of Homage to Bharat by Brian Balmages. The Preparatory Choir and Senior Trebles transported the audience with A Magical Kingdom by John Rutter, and the Guitar Ensemble evoked the essence of Australian beaches with Paul Svoboda’s Gliding Over Garner’s. Eddie (Year 11) gave a passionate solo performance of Gethsemane, and the Stage Band impressed with Chick Corea’s Spain. Foreshore highlighted Australian repertoire with Where? from The Rabbits, while Year 12 Vice-Captain of Music Charlie showcased a virtuosic HSC performance of Weber’s Concertino for Horn. The Senior Strings delivered a stirring rendition of Elgar’s Introduction and Allegro, Op. 47.
The evening concluded with the Symphony Orchestra’s powerful Organ Symphony No. 3 by Saint-Saëns, featuring Year 10 student Jeddy on the grand organ, and a crowd-favourite finale, I Vow to Thee, My Country, conducted by Captain of Music Alan (Year 12).
We extend tremendous gratitude to our talented Directors of Ensembles, mentors, accompanists, and music staff, whose expertise and dedication made RESONATE possible. Congratulations to our music students on an unforgettable celebration of music and community.