Singing and performing are so important to me. Concerts, musicals, plays, vocal groups and open-mic nights were routine for me, prior to the pandemic. Since then, performance opportunities have been cancelled, and we have had to navigate the realm of virtual performances, live streams and studio sessions to continue sharing our musical endeavours. Being back in school, it was great to interact with my peers and teachers face to face (F2F).
After a few weeks in F2F school again, I was thrilled to hear there would be a performance opportunity with a small group of students in lieu of the school’s new cafe opening! My brother and I spent time at home going through potential song selections, excited at the prospect of having a live audience again, and grateful for the opportunity to have that on campus. As it is my senior year, I really look forward to any performance opportunities seeing as they were all cancelled previously.
Rehearsing my song in the music room was an extremely nostalgic, enjoyable experience which I hope will continue up until I graduate! Before the pandemic I would be in and out of the music rooms, in performance ensembles or solos or duets for various events. Singing alongside the live music in that space was really great.
The performance itself was such an enjoyable experience. The school courtyard where the cafe was opening, was beautifully decorated with baubles and lights hung from the trees, and the tea-time snacks available were great. I performed, “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow”, the Amy Winehouse version, accompanied by Ms Duncan on the piano, Mr Marlon on the bass, and Liam on the Bongos. My brothers performance was right before mine, where he sung and accompanied himself on piano fro Billy Joel’s ” Vienna “. I also got to play tambourine for a peers performance of “All I Want For Christmas Is You”, which created a great Christmas spirit. Playing percussion also holds a special place in my heart, because I have been able to be the percussionist in a number of school performances, including for the school band, which is always extremely fun. I was also able to hear musicians from my school perform after so long.
All in all this was a meaningful experience, and a great opportunity to share what I love to do with others. Fing ers crossed for more performances and more music!!
LO4 : Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences Students demonstrate regular involvement and active engagement in CAS.
Despite the cancellation of various events due to the pandemic, we all as musicians persisted with our art and continued to train our instruments. Therefore we were all brimming with excitement when a performance opportunity F2F presented itself!
LO5 : Demonstrate the skills and recognise the benefits of working collaboratively Students are able to identify, demonstrate and critically discuss the benefits and challenges of collaboration gained through CAS experiences.
By working with others and supporting family and friends throughout the time in online school, we were able to continue our musical pursuits so that beginning to perform again felt like a natural progression. Also, during preparation for a live performance after so long, we supported one another during rehearsal and showtime. We drew on the benefits of collaboration to do our best.