Term 1, 2024 Newsletter

J ANUARY 2024 VOL. 1

THE MEMORANDA

CONTRA GUITAR DUO SUNDAY SERIES CVCON ORCHESTRA ROCKS!

Term 1 Lessons Term 1 is an 11 week term, lessons will commence: 29 January 2024 at the Conservatorium 5 February 2024 in Schools with CVCon tutors.

All students from 2023 have been re-enrolled for 2024 unless you have indicated otherwise.

--------------------------------------------------------------Welcome to Term 1 at the Clarence Valley Conservatorium! As we commence the term, our commitment to fostering a vibrant and enriching musical environment is stronger than ever.

Throughout this term, our dedicated team of tutors, passionate about the transformative power of music, will be guiding students on a captivating exploration of melodies, rhythms, and the joy of musical expression. Whether you are a beginner taking your first steps into the world of music or a seasoned musician honing your skills, we have tailored programs and classes to suit all levels and interests.

We also encourage active participation in our community events, recitals, and workshops scheduled throughout the term. These occasions not only showcase your progress but also offer valuable opportunities to connect with fellow music enthusiasts, creating a supportive network that enhances your musical journey.

At the Clarence Valley Conservatorium, we believe that music has the power to transform lives, fostering discipline, creativity, and a profound sense of accomplishment. As we begin this term together, let us embark on a harmonious adventure that will not only refine your musical abilities but also nurture a lifelong love for the art.

Thank you for choosing the Clarence Valley Conservatorium as your musical destination.

Here's to a term filled with harmony, growth, and the joy of making music together!

Adam Wills, Director

2024 Scholarship Winners Congratulations to all students who undertook Scholarship auditions at the end of 2023. There were many outstanding auditions, making the decision for the audition panel very difficult.

The students who were awarded Scholarships are: Senior Music Levi Cook - Piano Vinh Coorey - Flute Riley Smidt - Piano Junior Music Ella Carolan - Piano Billy Duhig - Guitar Theo Symonds - Percussion Elliana Horvat - Piano Chloe Gavin - Clarinet Ensemble Scholarships Travis Smidt - Cornet Zane Smith - Percussion Lilly Worthy - Voice Charlie Gallaher - Voice

2024 Scholarship Winners

Student of the Year Carter Smith

Carter Smith has truly exemplified the spirit of dedication, passion, and musical excellence throughout his time at the Clarence Valley Conservatorium. Beginning as a young student at Gillwinga Public School, his commitment to his craft, coupled with an unwavering work ethic, has set a standard that is truly commendable.

Carter's musical journey with us has been marked by outstanding achievements and contributions. From captivating performances in concerts to collaborative efforts that have enriched the musical community, Carter has demonstrated not only technical prowess but also a deep understanding of the power of music to connect and inspire.

Carter has been an exemplary member of our musical family. His willingness to mentor and support fellow students, coupled with a positive and collaborative attitude, has created a harmonious environment within the conservatorium.

As we honour Carter Smith as the Clarence Valley Conservatorium's Student of the Year for 2023, let us not only celebrate his individual accomplishments but also acknowledge the collective dedication of our entire community. The staff and fellow students who have contributed to Carter's growth and success are a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines our Conservatorium.

Carter, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. May your musical journey continue to flourish, and may your passion for music inspire others to reach new heights. We look forward to witnessing the continued brilliance that undoubtedly lies ahead for you. Cheers to the Student of the Year, Carter Smith!

ADAM WILLS

PERCUSSION

SUNDAY 25 FEBRUARY 3:00PM CLARENCE VALLEY CONSERVATORIUM 8 VILLIERS STREET, GRAFTON

ADULT: $30 CONC: $20 CHILD: $10 FOR BOOKINGS VISIT WWW.CVCON.NSW.EDU.AU OR PHONE 6643 3555

Sunday Series Concerts Adam Wills T h e f i r s t S u n d a y S e r i e s C o n c e r t fo r 2 0 2 4 i s a p e r c u s s i o n p e r f o r m anc e b y A d a m W ills, Director of Clarence Valley Conservatorium.

J o i n u s f o r a r h y t h m i c j o u r n e y l e d b y h i s m a s t e r f u l b e a t s , e x p l o r i n g th e d iv e rse w o rld o f percussion.

D o n ' t m i s s t h i s u n i q u e S u n d a y c o n c e r t , w h e r e p a s s i o n , t a l e n t a n d a rtistry c o llid e in a mesmerizing showcase.

Sunday, 25 February 3:00pm

CONTRA GUITAR DUO

SATURDAY 9 MARCH 3:00PM CLARENCE VALLEY CONSERVATORIUM 8 VILLIERS STREET, GRAFTON

ADULT: $35 CONC: $25 CHILD: $15 FOR BOOKINGS VISIT WWW.CVCON.NSW.EDU.AU OR PHONE 6643 3555

Visiting Artists Series Contra Guitar Duo O p p o s i n g y e t c o m p l e m e n t a r y p e r f o r m e r s c a n c r e a t e t h r i l l i n g a r t i stry - th is is th e b a sis o n w h i c h C o n t r a G u i t a r D u o w a s f o r m e d b y H a m i s h S t r a t h d e e a n d E m m a - S h a y Ga lle ntiGuilfoyle.

T h e p a i r m e t a t t h e i r u n i v e r s i t y a u d i t i o n s i n 2 0 1 1 a n d h a v e b e e n m a king m usic to g e th e r e v e r s i n c e . T h e i r c o n t r a s t i n g m u s i c a l p e r s o n a l i t i e s a n d c h a r m i n g p e r s ona l c h e m istry b ring a d y n a m i c s p i n t o t h e f a n t a s t i c c o m b i n a t i o n o f t w o g u i t a r s . U n i t e d b y th e ir p a ssio n to b ring a u d i e n c e s m u s i c t h e y l o v e , H a m is h a n d E m m a - S h a y a r e e x c i t e d t o sh o w c a se th e v a rie d a nd rich expressive capabilities of the guitar duo as an ensemble.

C o n t r a G u i t a r D u o h a s p e r f o r m e d e x t e n s i v e l y i n E u r o p e a n d A u s tra lia . P e rfo rm a nc e h i g h l i g h t s i n c l u d e t h e D u b a i W o r l d E x p o , S t a a t s o p e r H a m b u r g , M e lb o urne Guita r Fe stiv a l and the Darmstädter Gitarrentage.

T h e d u o r e l e a s e d t h e i r d e b u t E P o n M o v e i n M a y 2 0 2 3 a n d h a v e num e ro us c o nc e rt appearances across Australia.

Saturday, 9 March 3:00pm

CVCon Orchestra Rocks!

The CVCon Orchestra assembles for it's 2024 concert, featuring rock and pop hits of the last 50 years.

Join us for an electrifying evening, where orchestral brilliance meets the rhythm of your favourite chart-toppers in an unforgettable musical celebration.

Featuring the voices of high school students from across the Clarence Valley.

Friday, 22 March - 7:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium

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Livable Live Life Community Support Fund We are delighted to announce that the CVCon has been selected as a successful recipient of Livable’s Live Life Community Support Fund.

The Live Life Community Support Fund will allow us to continue to provide our much loved Forget Me Nots on Tuesday mornings.

The Forget Me Nots is for community members living with either memory impairment issues or social isolation. Participants are drawn from all over the Clarence Valley local government area and the group has a focus on singing as music therapy, using familiar songs to bring enjoyment to participants. The Forget Me Nots has become an opportunity for local residents to get together, sing some old favourites and make connections through music.

Do you have a string player at home or are you one yourself?

In term 1 we're taking expressions of interest to start a string group for those who have been learning a string instrument for a short amount of time.

For students who have been learning for a short time, our newest string group provides a nurturing and engaging environment where they can play string instruments like the violin, viola, cello, or double bass.

Led by Inanna Sage the group will meet weekly to explore string playing as a group.

Here's what you can expect from our Beginner String Group: 1. Beginner-Friendly Approach: Inanna is skilled at introducing music concepts in a way that is accessible and enjoyable for learners of all ages.

2. Musical Exploration: Through a diverse repertoire of tunes, our musicians will discover different genres and musical styles.

3. Ensemble Experience: Playing in a group is not only educational but also incredibly fun. Our Beginner String Group provides ample opportunities for members to learn to listen, follow a conductor, and play together with their peers. They will experience the joy of creating beautiful harmonies as part of a team.

4. Confidence Building: We believe in empowering students through music. Regular performances, recitals, and informal gatherings will allow members to showcase their progress and build confidence.

Our supportive environment ensures that every young musician feels celebrated and valued.

5. Lifelong Benefits: Learning a musical instrument offers numerous benefits for development. It enhances cognitive skills, promotes discipline and perseverance, improves coordination, and boosts selfexpression.

Register your interest HERE.

Here’s some of what happened in Term 4, 2023

Choirs, Ensembles & Groups at CVCON Good Vibes Choir Theory for Juniors Con Kids Chorus Concert Band Con Youth Chorus Jazz Ensemble Con Chorus

MONDAY: 1.00-2.30 4.00-4.45 4.00-4.45 4.45-5.30 5.00-6.00 5.40-6.40 6.30-7.30

Brenda Little Peter Morgan Jill Carter Peter Morgan Jill Carter Peter Morgan Jill Carter

Forget Me Nots Choir Pre-Instrumental Rock Band Beginner Strings Guitarchestra Adult Combo

TUESDAY: 10.00-11.30 4.00-4.30 4.30-5.30 4.30-5.30 5.30-6.30 6.30-7.30

Jenny W & Leigh R Wesley Chegwidden Wesley Chegwidden Inanna Sage Luke Gough Kris Edwards

KISS Vocal Group Squeeze Box Circle Pre-Instrumental Piano Ensemble String Ensemble

WEDNESDAY: 12.00-1.00 1.00-2.00 3.30-4.00 4.00-4.45 5.30-7.00

Jill Carter Greta Enns Wesley Chegwidden Jayne Logan Sarah Nicholls

Kidzjam Pre-Instrumental Flute Ensemble

THURSDAY: 10.30-11.00 3.30-4.00 5.15-6.00

Wesley Chegwidden Wesley Chegwidden Sharon Davidge

FRIDAY: Lunchtime Drum Circle 12.30-1.30 Ensemble/Theory (Seniors) 4.00-4.45 Adult Flute Ensemble 4.15-5.00 Sax Ensemble 4.45-5.30

Luke Gough Peter Morgan Sharon Davidge Peter Morgan

Who's Who at Clarence Valley Conservatorium MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE: Chairperson - Jenny Worrell Vice Chairperson - Calvin Terry Treasurer / Public Officer - Mark Thompson Members - Kate Joseph, Paul Kennedy, Yvonne Ledingham, Fran McHugh, Deborah Wray ADMINISTRATION: Director - Adam Wills Administration Manager - Vicki Forbes Finance Manager - Carolyn Maunder Programs Co-ordinator - Kris Edwards Projects Officer - Roslyn Kennedy TUTORS: Clarinet, Saxophone, Bass Guitar, Adult Combo (Ens) - Kris Edwards Clarinet, Saxophone - Peter Morgan Flute, Fife, Piccolo, Panpipes - Sharon Davidge Guitar: Classical, Folk - Ryan Enns Guitar, Electric Guitar, Ukulele, Music Production - Luke Gough Guitar, Bottle Neck Slide Guitar, Banjo - Robert Hughes Guitar, Ukulele, Banjo, Harmonica - Damien Sullivan Percussion - Adam Wills Percussion, Rock Band - Wesley Chegwidden Piano, Piano Accordion - Greta Enns Piano, Flute, Accompanying - Jayne Logan School Groups - Elisabeth Moore Strings n Things (Ensemble) - Sarah Nicholls Violin, Piano - Inanna Sage Voice, Choirs - Jill Carter Voice, Choirs - Elysha West Choirs - Brenda Little

Contact CVCon

What's on in Term 1 Monday 15 January: CVCon Office Reopens Monday 29 January: Term 1 lessons commence at CVCon Monday 5 February: CVCon lessons in Schools commence Tuesday 6 February: Forget Me Nots Choir resumes Sunday 25 February: Sunday Series, Adam Wills - 3:00pm Saturday 9 March: Visiting Artists, Contra Guitar Duo - 3:00pm Friday 22 March: CVCon Series, CVCon Orchestra Rocks! - 7:00pm Friday 12 April: CVCon lessons in Schools end for Term 1 Friday 12 April: Lessons at CVCon end for Term 1 Monday 15 April - Friday 19 April: Song Writing Workshop at CVCon ---------------------------------------------------------------

Performing Arts Nights PAN's Term 1 Week 11 Monday 8 April Tuesday 9 April Wednesday 10 April Thursday 11 April @ 7:00pm We look forward to seeing you perform, please book in now.

2024 PROGRAMME GUIDE

Eight Villiers Street, Grafton 02 6643 3555 cvcon@cvcon.nsw.edu.au cvcon.nsw.edu.au

WELCOME From classical music through to contemporary innovation there's something for everyone in the 2024 Concerts at the Clarence Valley Conservatorium.

Join us as our students, staff and visiting musicians explore the boundless possibilities of music.

ADAM WILLS Director

PROGRAMME GUIDE 2024 CONTENTS

ADAM WILLS

0

CONTRA GUITAR DUO

7

CVCON ORCHESTRA ROCKS!

0

MUSICAL WONDERLAND

9

JAYNE LOGAN & GRETA ENNS

1

BANDS IN THE PARK

1

SHARON DAVIDGE

1

EMMA PASK

3

LISTENING WITH THE BODY

1

RYAN ENNS

5

ACACIA QUARTET

1

LUKE GOUGH

7

WE WILL ROCK YOU

1

ST CECILIA’S

9

ESTAMPA

2 1 2 3 2 5 2 7 2 9 3

ADAM WILLS SUNDAY SERIES

The first Sunday Series Concert for 2024 is a percussion performance

by Adam Wills, the Director of Clarence Valley Conservatorium. Join us for a rhythmic journey led by his masterful beats, exploring the diverse world of percussion. Don't miss this unique Sunday concert, where passion, talent and artistry collide in a mesmerising showcase.

DATE: Sunday 25 February 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $30 CONCESSION: $20 CHILD: $10

07

CONTRA GUITAR DUO VISITING ARTISTS SERIES

United by their passion to bring audiences music they love, Hamish and Emma-Shay are excited to showcase the varied and rich expressive capabilities of the guitar duo as an ensemble.

Contra Guitar Duo has performed extensively in Europe and Australia.

Performance highlights include the Dubai World Expo, Staatsoper Hamburg, Melbourne Guitar Festival and the Darmstädter Gitarrentage.

DATE: Saturday 9 March 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $35 CONCESSION: $25 CHILD: $15

09

CVCON ORCHESTRA ROCKS! CVCON SERIES

The CVCon Orchestra assembles for its 2024 concert, featuring rock and pop hits of the last 50 years.

Join us for an electrifying evening, where orchestral brilliance meets the rhythm of your favourite charttoppers in an unforgettable musical celebration.

Featuring the voices of high school students from across the Clarence Valley.

DATE: Friday 22 March 7:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $30 CONCESSION: $20 CHILD: $10

11

MUSICAL WONDERLAND: A JOYFUL JOURNEY FOR LITTLE EARS CVCON SERIES

Strings'n'Things presents a magical Kids Concert, a whimsical musical adventure that sparks joy in every little heart. Join us for a toe-tapping, finger-snapping journey filled with enchanting melodies and playful tunes.

It's a concert where laughter, rhythm and the joy of music come together to create an unforgettable experience for our littlest audience members.

DATE: Saturday 11 May 10:30am Clarence Valley Conservatorium Free Concert

13

JAYNE LOGAN AND GRETA ENNS SUNDAY SERIES

The duo team of Jayne Logan and Greta Enns returns for their 2024 concert. Featuring an afternoon of piano duets and duos plus works for accordion and piano.

DATE: Sunday 26 May 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $30 CONCESSION: $20 CHILD: $10

15

BANDS IN THE PARK CVCON SERIES

The CVCon Jazz Ensemble and Concert Band are joined by guest ensembles from the Conservatorium and from schools around the Clarence Valley, for an afternoon of music in the park.

DATE: Sunday 2 June 2:00pm Market Square, Grafton Free Concert

17

SHARON DAVIDGE SUNDAY SERIES

CVCon flute tutor Sharon Davidge takes to the stage as part of the 2024 Sunday Series.

Sharon is a seasoned performer and her concerts are always entertaining and insightful.

DATE: Sunday 28 July 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $30 CONCESSION: $20 CHILD: $10

19

EMMA PASK VISITING ARTISTS SERIES

While Emma’s voice and style are unique, and individually her own, her performances are reminiscent of the classic era of jazz, when swing was top of the charts. Her talent was first spotted by internationally renowned Jazz great James Morrison, when she was just 16 years old.

She joined his band as the lead vocalist at 16, and went on to spend a solid 20 years touring the world with Morrison.

DATE: Saturday 17 August 7:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $35 CONCESSION: $25 CHILD: $15

21

LISTENING WITH THE BODY: A HARP JOURNEY VISITING ARTISTS SERIES

Listening with the Body is a journey through the powerfully moving resonances of the harp. Together Alice & Moran create a space for the audience to explore the art of listening. Moran draws on meditative and sensory awareness practices to help us listen in a deeply embodied way to the harp, our inner worlds, each other, and the music.

Presented in association with Musica Viva Australia.

DATE: Sunday 22 September 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $35 CONCESSION: $25 CHILD: $15

23

RYAN ENNS SUNDAY SERIES

Audience favourite and all round entertainer Ryan Enns shows his innate musicality with a varied program of music for guitar.

There are sure to be some surprises included as well.

DATE: Sunday 29 September 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $30 CONCESSION: $20 CHILD: $10

25

ACACIA QUARTET VISITING ARTISTS SERIES

Returning to the Clarence Valley in 2024 is the highly acclaimed Acacia Quartet. Featuring string quartets by Tchaikovsky and Schostakovich as well as a special guest marimba performance by CVCon Director Adam Wills.

DATE: Sunday 20 October 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $35 CONCESSION: $25 CHILD: $15

27

LUKE GOUGH SUNDAY SERIES

Luke Gough brings us his 2024 Sunday Series concert, showcasing his musicianship with a wide variety of music and genres.

From heavy metal through to delicate guitar work this is surely a concert experience not to be missed.

DATE: Sunday 27 October 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $30 CONCESSION: $20 CHILD: $10

29

WE WILL ROCK YOU: SCHOOLS EDITION CVCON SERIES

Get ready to rock your socks off with the electrifying 'We Will Rock You: Schools Edition'! This high-energy musical, inspired by the legendary music of Queen, takes center stage as a group of rebellious youth battles against a futuristic society devoid of rock 'n' roll.

Packed with iconic Queen hits and a fresh, youth-driven energy, this Schools Edition of 'We Will Rock You' promises a dynamic and unforgettable theatrical experience for all ages. Join us for a musical journey that will have you singing, dancing, and rocking to the beat!

DATE: Friday 15 November 7:00pm Saturday 16 November 2:00pm Saturday 16 November 7:00pm Sunday 17 November 2:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $30 CONCESSION: $20 CHILD: $10

31

ST CECILIA'S DAY CONCERT CVCON SERIES

The teachers of the Conservatorium join forces to honour the Patroness Saint of Musicians. Come along and see the wonderful musicians we have here on the teaching staff of the Conservatorium.

Performances will include a variety of solos and duets from CVCon teachers and guests.

DATE: Sunday 24 November 3:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $30 CONCESSION: $20 CHILD: $10

33

ESTAMPA VISITING ARTISTS SERIES

This concert presents an eclectic mix of music from various cultures and genres. The band takes the audience on a musical journey, beginning with a lively Swedish contemporary folk cover of Väsen, followed by a sultry French gypsy bossa.

The band also showcases their ability to weave together traditional and contemporary sounds, with a Swedish traditional wedding polska.

Presented in association with Musica Viva Australia.

DATE: Thursday 28 November 7:00pm Clarence Valley Conservatorium ADULT: $35 CONCESSION: $25 CHILD: $15

35

The Clarence Valley Conservatorium is supported by the NSW Government through the Regional Conservatoriums Grants Program and is a member of the Association of NSW Regional Conservatoriums.