Message from the Chair
Music moves us – it brings us joy, lets us express sadness, makes us dance. Singing and playing an instrument also brings a sense of growth and achievement that builds confidence and wellbeing – particularly when we make music with others.
I am so proud of everything that our members, teachers and conductors have achieved throughout the year and very pleased that end of year performances could go ahead in person, including through Music on the Move. We are fortunate to have a highly skilled and dedicated team of artistic and admin staff who have enabled Music for Canberra to continue playing its vital role in supporting our members and nurturing their love of music.
The Board has been pleased to welcome Shane Dobbin to the role of CEO. Shane brings significant leadership experience from across the community, private and public sectors and has been getting around to meet everyone and support the development of new programs.
On behalf of the Board, I wish everyone a relaxing and happy Christmas. We can’t wait to see you all for a bright and exciting new year filled with music.
David Harvey
Chair of the Board
Music for Canberra
Message from the CEO
As 2021 draws rapidly to a close I want to take the opportunity to briefly look back on a year that turned out much differently than anyone could have imagined. While it was certainly challenging in many ways, it also showed how strong Music for Canberra is as a company – even in the toughest of times.
A huge congratulations and thank you to our teams across MfC who seamlessly and quickly adapted to moving lessons and rehearsals to online platforms, while continuing to provide an excellent and quality learning experience for all our students.
Since joining MfC, I have also met many parents, families, sponsors and supporters, receiving lots of new innovative ideas and positive feedback. I look forward to continuing the conversations and exploring these ideas with our members and the community in the New Year.
We have lots of exciting new programs planned in 2022 including the launch of the CYO scholarships. There are four half scholarships available to Viola, Double Bass, French Horn and Percussion players – so log in to the website www.musicforcanberra.org.au to find out more or apply.
CYO and JMO Live Auditions are now open together with String Stream auditions. Don’t miss out – check the website to register before the closing date.
Thank you again to all of the MfC teams, especially in Head Office who have worked tirelessly through 2021. Looking forward to a bright and exciting, musical 2022.
I wish you and your families a Happy Festive Season and a healthy New Year.
Shane Dobbin
CEO
Music for Canberra
Big Jam!
Our brilliant Mixed Ability Program (MAP) musicians making wonderful music and fantastic dance moves at the Big Jam on April 2.
First Steps: A Classical Journey
A fantastic turn-out for the String Stream and the Canberra Children’s Choir at Albert Hall last Saturday! Pictured from top to bottom we have Jenny and the String Ensemble, Mandy with Camerata, Toby leading the Children’s Choir, Ash conducting Sinfonietta and Peg Mantle Strings led by Tim.
Magic and the Masters
A glorious finale to our Concert Day featuring the Canberra Youth Orchestra and the James McCusker Orchestra. Professional photos of the event will be released shortly, but here is just a taste of what went on.
MfC Music to Share!
After the brilliant CYO performance of works by Sarah Hopkins and Maria Grenfell, we thought you might be hungry for a bit more music from women who changed the classical music world forever. Check out this article from Classic FM to hear works from Hildegard von Bingen, often credited as one of the first known composers of Western music, right through to Martha Argerich – pianist extraordinaire.