PERFORMING ARTS
Welcome to the middle of the term! It’s been wonderful to see our students so actively engaged in their music lessons, ensembles, and all areas of the Performing Arts. Their enthusiasm and commitment are already shining through, and we’re excited to share their progress with you at the many performances and events planned for the year ahead.
All lessons and ensembles are now well underway, and students are reminded to check Compass regularly for their scheduled lessons, rehearsals, and any important updates.
For any queries, please email the Instrumental Music Team Managers at
imt-manager@mckinnonsc.vic.edu.au.
MINI MUSICAL CAST ANNOUNCEMENTS
The casts for this year’s Mini Musicals have now been announced! With over 100 students auditioning for just 30 roles, the calibre of performances was incredibly high. Selecting the final cast was no easy task, reflecting the remarkable enthusiasm, skill, and creativity across our Performing Arts community. This outstanding level of participation showcases McKinnon’s vibrant energy and bodes extremely well for the future of our Music and Performing Arts programs. Congratulations to everyone who auditioned. Rehearsals will begin at the end of Term 1.
HOUSE MUSIC FESTIVAL – REHEARSALS GALORE
Excitement is building as our Houses prepare for this year’s House Music Festival! Captains and their teams have been rehearsing with enthusiasm and determination, each eager to take out the top honours. Will it be Chisholm, bringing creativity and flair to every note? Flynn, whose bold energy could electrify the stage? Gilmore, ready to impress with style and precision? Or Monash, last year’s champions: can they make it two in a row?
Join us at 6pm on Wednesday 18 March in the Hall to find out. No matter who takes home the trophy, every performance will showcase the passion, talent, and teamwork of our students. Don’t miss the 2026 House Music Festival - a celebration of musical excellence and school spirit.
PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS
On Wednesday 11 February, The Dozeytones performed for our Year 7 Band classes, delighting students with their vibrant sound and inspiring stories. The group is led by McKinnon alumna and trumpet teacher Yael Marks, who, along with her fellow band members, shared insights into their musical journeys from their first school ensembles through to their university studies. Their visit offered our newest musicians a wonderful glimpse into the exciting pathways that music can lead to, inspiring them as they begin their own musical journeys here at McKinnon.
On Wednesday 18 February, the VCE Music cohort visited the Southbank Theatre to see My Brilliant Career. The students experienced a dynamic musical adaptation of the classic Australian novel, brought to life by a cast of multi-talented musician performers. The production was incredible and offered students exciting new insight into the many pathways and possibilities available to them as future working musicians. Special thanks to Zoe Bartholomeusz and Mr Paschal Lee for their support and supervision on the day.
Leah Humphrey
Music Teacher
On Saturday 21 February, the Senior Stage Band kicked off their 2026 performance calendar in style at the Big Sunsets Festival, an event that continues to be an important fixture for school ensembles across the region. Since 2015, McKinnon has been proud to participate in this vibrant community celebration, giving our students the chance to connect with audiences beyond the school and share their love of live music.
A heartfelt thank you to Dmitry Serebrianik, Tim Rex, Blanka West, and Lindsay Ryan for their organisation, guidance, and ongoing support of this event. We also extend our thanks to the many families and friends who came along to cheer on our students; their presence and encouragement make these performances truly special.
AUSTRALIAN YOUTH BAND (AYB) OPEN DAY - 28 MARCH 2026
The Australian Youth Band (AYB) is holding an Open Day on Saturday 28 March 2026 at Parkhill Primary School, Parkhill Drive, Ashwood, and invites young musicians aged 12–28 to come along, join a rehearsal, and experience playing in one of Australia’s premier youth performance ensembles, including concert band, junior/training band, marching band, big band and American-style drumline. Students will have the chance to meet current members, discover upcoming performance and international touring opportunities (including the 2026 Malaysia and Singapore tour), and learn how AYB supports and extends school music programs. For more information visit: ayb.org.au
CORE ENSEMBLES: DAYS AND TIMES
Core Ensembles: Students are reminded that their participation in instrumental lessons is contingent on attending their designated core ensemble rehearsals. Continued enrollment in the Instrumental Music Program requires consistent attendance at both lessons and core ensembles.
McKINNON CAMPUS
Senior Strings: Thursday after school, 3:30–5:00pm (A01AB)
Senior Winds: Wednesday before school, 7:40–8:30am (Auditorium)
Choir (vocal students Years 10–12): Thursday lunchtime (Auditorium)
Wind Symphony: Thursday after school, 3:30–5:00pm (Auditorium)
Orchestra: Wednesday after school, 3:30–5:00pm (Auditorium)
EAST CAMPUS (VG.1)
East Campus Choir (vocal students Years 8–9): Monday lunchtime
Keenan Strings: Monday after school, 3:30–4:30pm
Ovenden Band: Wednesday after school, 3:30–4:30pm
All other ensembles are by invitation and/or audition only, and participation depends on students maintaining a consistent commitment to their core ensemble.
The in-class Years 7 & 8 string and band ensembles commenced rehearsals and; students are reminded to check Compass for rehearsal times and to bring their instruments.
Dmitry Serebrianik
Learning Area Manager – Performing Arts