Music
Daniel Batchelor
As we continue to farewell the seniors, Daniel Batchelor (Band Captain) has penned some parting thoughts about his time at Churchie and his final year.
Written by Year 12 student Band Captain Daniel Batchelor.
‘Many long-lasting memories have been made in the music department this year across the bands. Personally, as Co-Captain of Bands, my most memorable moments of 2024 were during the culmination of months of hard work in the few minutes on stage for Jazz Under the Stars 2024 and Anzac Day. These memories, along with those formed with my peers during music camp and the 2023 Japan Music Tour, will stick in the minds of the blue and grey for years to come. My advice, as a member of BB1, Morris Wind Symphony and Twisted Metal, is to embrace the great joy that music brings. Immerse yourself, enjoy being on stage and get into the music—this energy is infectious to both the audience and your fellow boys in the blue and grey.’
James Aralar
In his final Headmaster’s Assembly, James Aralar took to the stage for his first solo performance at Churchie, reciting ‘Élégie’ by Gabriel Fauré. It was a melancholic and stirring performance, representing the emotions of the final days as a Year 12 student.
Please follow this link to a recording of James’ performance at Headmaster’s Assembly:
Music Camp
Over the weekend, 126 students from the premier ensembles—Morris Wind Symphony, Big Band 1, Viking Vocals, Senior Voices, Chamber Strings 1 and Churchie Symphony Orchestra—attended Music Camp. The weekend included recreational activities, social opportunities through Mr Kriesch’s world-famous trivia night, wonderful food, free time and outstanding opportunities to rehearse new music for the 2025 season.
The camp featured amazing guest conductors such as John Rotar (Choral), Mark Sullivan (Strings) and Sharelle Guest (Band), which has become a tradition and a focal point for learning new skills that can be transferred across the repertoire and other ensembles. The weekend ended with a concert for parents on Sunday and it was clear to see the potential already being reached in such a short time. Of particular note was the finale item, ‘Better Be Home Soon’ by Crowded House, led by Ms Oxenford and featuring all 126 boys on camp singing in full voice, with some parents and staff joining in. Singing together is one of the best examples of community and always creates an uplifting feeling when so many voices come together as one. It was an amazing way to finish a productive and fruitful weekend.
A big thank you to all the staff who graciously and tirelessly gave up their weekends to make these opportunities possible for the students: Ms Oxenford, Ms Black, Ms Leask, Mr Luostarinen, Mr Williamson, Mr Kriesch, Madame Washington, Ms Pearse, Ms Rochet, Ms Pincott and Mr Gante. What a wonderful start it has been to the 2025 season.
Bohdan Davison
Director of Music