Music

Last term our String Ensemble, Concert Band and Choir had the opportunity to represent Kilbreda College at the Victorian School Music Festival. While the performances themselves were certainly a highlight, what I am most proud of is the way our students embraced the entire experience.

Performing at a festival like this requires courage. Students are asked to step outside their comfort zones, perform in an unfamiliar venue, work with guest conductors and clinicians, and be willing to make changes to their performance in real time. This year, our students did exactly that. They listened carefully, responded positively to feedback and trusted the process, even when it challenged them to think differently about their music-making.

One of the most valuable aspects of the festival was the opportunity to learn alongside other schools. Many students commented on how much they enjoyed watching other ensembles perform and participating in the workshop sessions. They were fascinated by how a guest adjudicator could make a small adjustment and immediately transform the sound of an ensemble. These experiences help students realise that music is never “finished” and that growth comes from being open to learning, refining and trying again.

I was also incredibly proud of how our students represented Kilbreda throughout the day. Beyond their performances, they conducted themselves with maturity, kindness and respect. Whether interacting with festival staff, other schools or members of the public, they demonstrated the values of our College beautifully. They presented Kilbreda with pride and grace, and that is something worth celebrating.

As we look towards 2027, I would love to continue partnering with families who share our vision for growing a vibrant and thriving music culture at Kilbreda. We have made wonderful progress over the past few years, but the next step in that journey is building greater balance across our ensembles.

Like a netball team needs players in every position on the court, an ensemble needs every instrumental voice to create a rich and complete sound. We are particularly looking for students willing to take up or continue learning some of the instruments that are often less visible, and sometimes a little less convenient to carry around! These instruments provide the foundation and colour that every great ensemble relies upon.

Our priority areas for 2027 are:

• Trumpet (our highest priority)
• Trombone
• Euphonium
• French Horn
• Cello
• Double Bass

These instruments might not always grab the spotlight, but they are absolutely essential to creating a balanced ensemble sound.

To all of the students who participated in this year’s festival: thank you. Your commitment, enthusiasm, willingness to learn and support of one another made me incredibly proud. You not only performed beautifully, but you demonstrated what it means to be a Kilbreda musician.

Kara-Lee Rabbetts

Learning Leader: Performing Arts – Music