PERFORMING ARTS
Term 4 at McKinnon Secondary College delivered a vibrant and diverse showcase for the Performing Arts, culminating in an inspiring conclusion to 2025. From intimate recitals to celebratory concerts, each event reflected students’ creativity, resilience, and dedication, and the professionalism of the teaching and technical teams that supported every performance.
WOODWIND NIGHT - A SHOWCASE OF VERSATILITY
In late October, Woodwind Night brought together a talented cohort of students to perform an eclectic program spanning eras and genres - from the Baroque to jazz and musical theatre. Many showcased not only their principal instruments but their skills across multiple woodwind families, impressing audiences with both versatility and musical maturity.
The evening stood as a testament to sustained effort in lessons and rehearsals alike, made possible through the nurturing guidance of the woodwind teaching team and the invaluable support of Clare Bugeja, Dmitry Serebrianik, Zoe Bartholomeusz, and the AV and facilities staff.
DIANA DOHERTY MASTERCLASS: INSPIRATION FOR DOUBLE REED MUSICIANS
On Monday, 3 November 2025, McKinnon was privileged to welcome esteemed oboist Diana Doherty. She delivered an illuminating masterclass, offering participants and onlookers alike rare perspectives on technique and artistry, and enriching the learning experience for all involved. We thank Martin Lee for organising the event and proving a rare opportunity for our double reed students.
SOUNDS ON THE GROUNDS – MUSIC CLUB EAST CAMPUS: STUDENT COLLABORATION AND GROWTH
Throughout 2025, the Music Club, led by Ben Browne at East Campus provided students with the chance to collaborate, develop confidence, and hone musicianship. Each member contributed positively to a flourishing ensemble culture, guided by a spirit of teamwork and peer support. Student-led choices and growing independence shaped a rewarding year of growth and creativity, culminating in proud public performances and new friendships.
GIGS ON THE GREEN & SENIOR ENSEMBLES CONCERT: CELEBRATING SENIOR MUSICAL LEADERSHIP
As Term 4 progressed, Senior Core Ensembles featured in the “Gigs on the Green” series at the Senior Ensembles Concert on 5 November on the MERC Stage. Senior Strings, Wind Symphony, and guest performers showcased their repertoire in relaxed, lunchtime celebratory settings. This concert offered a fitting finale for many Year 12 students, whose growth and musical leadership were evident. Special acknowledgement is owed to Clare Bugeja for organisation, and to conductors Georgina Mead and Lindsay Ryan.
YEAR 11 THEATRE STUDIES NIGHT: STAGECRAFT AND COLLABORATION
Year 11 Theatre Studies students brought their final performance pieces to the stage on 5 November. The evening highlighted the students’ growth in collaboration and stagecraft, and their collective journey over the year as many will be embarking on VCE ¾ Unit in 2026.
REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE: HONOURING WITH MUSIC
On Tuesday 11 November, a reflective Remembrance Day service featured the String Quartet and Senior Singers, who performed “Amazing Grace” and the Australian National Anthem at the Bentleigh Cenotaph. Despite sombre, rainy weather - and a nearby school’s service creating harmonised echoes during the minute’s silence - the gravity of the occasion was felt deeply. The ensemble, organised by Georgina Mead and Blanka West, later gathered at the East Bentleigh RSL to mark the day together.
EAST CAMPUS CONCERT: SHOWCASING DEVELOPING TALENT
Held on Wednesday 12 November in the East Campus Gymnasium, the East Campus Concert celebrated the talents of Year 8 Strings and Bands, Ovenden Band, Keenan Strings, World Music Ensembles, East Choir, and the Intermediate Stage Band. The event highlighted the achievements and progress of developing musicians and displayed the energy and diversity of McKinnon’s music program.
CONDUCTING WORKSHOP WITH LINDSAY RYAN: EMPOWERING ENSEMBLE DIRECTORS
Our very gifted conductor and educator, Lindsay Ryan led an inspiring Conducting Workshop at McKinnon Secondary College, energising staff committed to advancing their ensemble direction skills. The session challenged participants to conduct in front of their peers, offering practical opportunities for growth.
Lindsay provided tailored, constructive feedback that helped participants identify strengths and areas for development. Her supportive approach fostered an atmosphere of trust and ambition, setting a clear path for sustained improvement in ensemble leadership and affirming the vital impact of reflective practice in musical direction.
AMEB EXAMS: CELEBRATING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
Congratulations to all students on their outstanding achievements in the AMEB exams! Your results are a testament to months of dedication, disciplined practice, and artistic growth. The school community is immensely proud of your commitment and celebrates your consistent pursuit of excellence in music.
INTRODUCING THE MCK MINI MUSICAL!!
Looking to the future, 2026 will see the debut of the McK Mini Musical, complementing the school’s full-scale biennial production. This exciting initiative promises even more performance opportunities, alternating each year between major and mini musicals, and broadening access for students of all experience levels.
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END-OF-YEAR EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Looking to the future, the end of the school year will feature a sequence of important and engaging Performing Arts events:
The Junior Students Concert on Thursday 27 November will showcase the rising musical talents of McKinnon’s youngest performers, with thanks to the ensemble directors, music leaders, and all supporting staff.
“McKinnon Sings Christmas Carols,” an inclusive and heartwarming event at the Bentleigh Uniting Church on Sunday 7 December, will feature students from Years 7 to 12 sharing festive music with the wider community.
Grade 6 Instrumental Music Induction Workshop at Orientation Day on Tuesday 9 December will give incoming students their first experience of McKinnon’s vibrant music program. Deepest thanks go to the music student helpers and dedicated staff who support instrument demonstrations and mentor our newest musicians, ensuring each tryout is an inspiring and welcoming experience.
INSTRUMENTAL LESSON CONCLUSION & INSTRUMENT RETURNS: READYING FOR 2026
As most instrumental lessons conclude on Friday 28 November, students are reminded to return hired instruments for stocktake and preparation for 2026.
Opportunities for free holiday instrument hire will be communicated to interested students.
MULTIMEDIA TEAM: BEHIND-THE-SCENES EXCELLENCE AND SUPPORT
The success of every 2025 Performing Arts event was underpinned by the exceptional efforts of the Multimedia Team. Their expertise in lighting, sound, and technical support - led by Michael Birkett, Caleb Goldwaser, Andrew Krause, Nick Xanthoudakis and Chelsea Stanley - ensured every concert and production ran smoothly.
We thank them deeply for their unwavering support, professionalism, and dedication throughout the year.
THANK YOU
As 2025 concludes, the Performing Arts Department expresses its heartfelt gratitude to students, families, staff, and supporters for adding another year of imagination and achievement to the school’s story. Every rehearsal, concert, and collaboration has reminded us of the powerful role that music and the arts play in forging resilient, creative communities.
The department looks ahead to 2026 with anticipation, confident that the tradition of excellence, curiosity, and collaboration at McKinnon will continue to flourish.
Dmitry Serebrianik
Head of Performing Arts