3 minute read
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.
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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,
I have loved witnessing how our respective jazz choir cohorts can so readily combine and collaborate with others, despite many being unfamiliar with one another.
I am proud to see that the culture built through the Wilderness Jazz Choir galvanises harmony and unity in more ways than one and that the Wilderness School values continue to guide these women, as they embrace, empower and enable each other.
There is great joy in recognising the development and maturity of the OSJC voices and hearing how lifeexperiences have brought new elements to their vocal tone and blend. Even though many members were nervous to revisit and re-use their instrument after many years
away, it has been exhilarating teaching them how to rebuild neural pathways to voice production. There are so many wonderful things to look forward to with the OSJC. Right now, we are focussed on growing closer as a united team, honing our unique skills and developing our musicality to greater heights.
We were incredibly fortunate to recently have had the opportunity to perform at the Wilderness School Annual Music Showcase. Taking to the stage for the first time since starting together, it was a beautiful event that captured the true essence and amazing community of Wilderness School.
I envisage the positive impact of OSJC on our music community, particularly in motivating and inspiring our current students. I especially think of the deep connection of the OSJC to the current Jazz Choir, who are effectively the legacy of the former.
For me, this choir is not just about reconnecting. It is not just about creating great music or performing on stage. It is about teaching our youth the importance and value of giving back to the same Wilderness community that gave them so much whilst using the universal language of music.
That’s the power of the Old Scholars Jazz Choir; I could not be more honoured to be a part of the journey.
Joanna Tropeano Instrumental Teacher – Voice Director, Old Scholars’ Jazz Choir
