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Wilderness Times | Spring 2020
INTRODUCING THE
OLD SCHOLARS’ JAZZ CHOIR
Over the years, I have observed wonderful and talented girls bring great joy and happiness to our music and school community through the Wilderness Jazz Choir. By the final rehearsal and performance, the choir members hold not only a superb sense of accomplishment but also a tangible sense of loss and sadness. This has led to the realisation that the Jazz Choir creates a unique sense of family, belonging and camaraderie; one that could not be replaced unless we found a way to reunite and create music together again. In September 2019, this notion came to fruition for the first time by sheer chance when I was contacted by Mrs Jodie Escott (former Head
of Advancement). She asked after the possibility of creating a “small ensemble” of 2018 graduates for a one-off performance at the Schools 135-year celebration. Within a matter of weeks, seven graduates pulled together to learn and perform an arrangement of ‘Independent Woman’ by Destiny’s Child. We were all inspired by their dedication, passion and performance flair. This sensational performance catalysed the inception of the Old Scholars Jazz Choir (OSJC). OSJC first commenced rehearsals in February 2020. It was the most incredible and surreal experience addressing the choir for the first time and witnessing the amalgamation of women who graduated only months
earlier alongside women who had graduated as far back as a decade past. The room was filled with laughter, palpable nostalgia and even displays of emotion as members shared their respective backgrounds, current life paths and past jazz choir experiences. From here it was abundantly clear that Wilderness School had created something truly special. Despite the fact that COVID-19 restrictions prevented OSJC from meeting again until August, I believe the first rehearsal really inspired our members to stay committed and excited for what we are now developing together. Aside from the personal opportunity and privilege of reconnecting with students whom I have cherished over the many years,
