MEDIA RELEASE 16 June 2009

MORETON BAY BOYS’ COLLEGE MUSIC SENSATION

LAST NIGHT, a showcase of musical talent from students of Moreton Bay Boys’ College (MBBC) filled the auditorium to capacity for the College’s annual Music Festival.

The Festival brought together the dynamic performances of some 200 boys ages from just four years, dazzling the audience with such diverse entertainment as trashcan drumming, singing ensembles, concert bands, a guitar ensemble, piano solo, drumming, saxophone, and the contemporary tunes of the College rock band, Blue Reign, which hopes to record its first CD by the end of this year.

Music is an integral part of the College’s offering, which aims to develop well rounded young men. “It’s about balance – providing a varied program of learning and co-curricular activities means each boy can tap into his unique interests and passions, and develop confidence in exploring activities that are new to him, “says Principal Dr Rod Crouch.
“It is great to see our boys as comfortable holding a musical instrument as they are holding their footy boots!” he says.

And comfortable they are. “The College engages younger students in group music making and singing, with a variety of songs that involve characterisation, part-work and accompanying instruments,” says MBBC Music Teacher, Ms Katchia Avenell. “The boys just love it!”

“Equal focus is given to boys in Middle and Senior school, some of whom do not necessarily have music training; our specialists are committed to finding ways to engage them, and have them really enjoy the experience of musical creativity,” she says.
The Music Festival expanded on last year’s inaugural performance, to include a wider gamut of musicians and ensembles, with variety and versatility being key ingredients. So from High School Musical hit, “We’re all in this together” , to classics by Mozart and Rossini, to favourites such as “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” and hits from Greenday and Red Hot Chilli Peppers, the night proved to be a hit with all!
“Music is an essential string in the MBBC boys’ education bow. Early music training helps develop the brain in areas involved with language and reasoning and creativity, says Dr Crouch. “Plus it’s a whole lot of fun! Just as learning should be,” he enthuses.