MLC to Host Prestigious Music Festival

Methodist Ladies’ College (MLC) is set to make history as the first Western Australian school to host the Australian Combined Schools Music Festival (ACSMF) in the Festival’s 50-year run. 

From Wednesday 28 June to Saturday 1 July 2023, MLC will welcome 237 students from 13 schools across the country to rehearse and perform a high-level range of musical pieces under the guidance of world-renowned conductors. 

MLC Director of Music Dr Andrew Sutherland said the College looked forward to witnessing student musicians from well-established Music programs showcase what they are capable of when young talent comes together. 

“This is a rare opportunity for our girls to play with and learn from Australia’s best student musicians and internationally recognised conductors,” Dr Sutherland said. 

“Students went through a rigorous audition process to create three exceptional ensembles who will rehearse for three days at MLC before a Gala Concert at the University of Western Australia’s Winthrop Hall to showcase their hard work.” 

 

The Concert will feature performances by the Choir conducted by Victoria (Tori) Longdon, Concert Band conducted by Samuel Parry, Orchestra conducted by Stephen Williams, and Primary Choir conducted by Perry Joyce. 

It will also include the premiere of the winning original Fanfare composed by James Brew from Sydney Grammar School entitled Aurora Australis.  

MLC Year 10 student Charlotte Swann said she is looking forward to the chance to collaborate with other students on the national stage. 

“As a player, I am really looking forward to meeting new people and sharing our love of music together; after all, that is what it is all about,” Charlotte said. 

Joined by three WA partner schools – Christ Church Grammar School, Scotch College and John XXIII College – the Festival is an opportunity for MLC and Perth to cement the State’s position as a place for music mastery. 

MLC Principal Ms Rebecca Clarke said the College is proud of its vibrant Music program and cannot wait to show what the West has to offer. 

“At Methodist Ladies’ College we have nurtured a Music program that promotes not only excellence in our girls, but cooperation and teamwork,” she said. 

“With four WA schools participating, it is great to see the comradery between our State’s students as they play alongside each other.” 

“We are honoured to host this prestigious event and forward to welcoming student musicians on campus.” 

To learn more about ACSMF and how you can show your support, please contact MLC Music Administrator Kerin Byrne via email on kbyrne@mlc.wa.edu.au