Musica Viva Australia (MVA) has been busy building stronger connections in Rockhampton. These initiatives have deepened MVA’s relationship with local schools, bringing music education into the heart of the community.
Partnership with Rockhampton Schools
In 2023, MVA conducted an online professional development (PD) session for teachers from the schools in the Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton. This initial interaction laid the groundwork for further collaboration in 2024, as MVA reached out to the Diocese to help organise an in-person PD session in Rockhampton.
The Diocese was eager to support, providing the Kevin Castles Conference Centre as a venue and helping spread the word among local educators. This partnership reflects a shared goal between MVA and Rockhampton’s education community: to boost music education and give teachers the tools to bring cultural and creative learning into their classrooms.
Immersive Professional Development
On Thursday, 1 August, MVA hosted an in-person PD workshop, "Exploring Music from the Torres Strait," led by Dr. Sue Lane and Dujon Niue. The workshop brought together 16 educators from schools across Rockhampton and Yeppoon, with most participants new to MVA.
This diverse group, which included educators beyond the Catholic school system, was keen to explore the rich musical traditions of the Torres Strait Islands. Dr. Sue Lane’s expertise and Dujon Niue’s captivating insights offered participants a unique opportunity to delve into the vibrant musical traditions of the Torres Strait Islands, with a particular focus on developing confidence in understanding the important cultural protocols surrounding material created by Indigenous cultural custodians.
The hands-on workshop offered practical ways for teachers to integrate this cultural material into their lessons. The feedback from participants highlighted a newfound enthusiasm and confidence in delivering culturally rich music education.
Wyniss at Rockhampton North Special School
As part of their tour, the Wyniss ensemble also performed at Rockhampton North Special School, an institution dedicated to supporting students with diverse access needs. The performance, attended by approximately 100 students, was an immersive musical experience filled with cultural storytelling and lively melodies.
The event was a hit with the students and highlighted MVA’s commitment to making music accessible to all children, regardless of their circumstances.
The best thing about the performance was seeing the look on the faces of the students clapping, singing and moving with the performers and how the performers appeared to read the skills of the group and make what they were doing relevant.
Cairns State Special School
Wyniss at Rockhampton North Special School
Looking Ahead
Our ongoing collaboration with Rockhampton schools shows Musica Viva Australia's dedication to bringing top-notch music education and experiences to communities across Australia. The success of our recent activities in Rockhampton reaffirms the value of these partnerships and inspires us to keep growing our reach.
We’re excited about what the future holds and grateful to the Rockhampton Diocese, the educators, and Rockhampton North Special School for their support and enthusiasm.
MVA visited Rockhampton thanks to the support of Thyne Reid Foundation, The Anthony & Sharon Lee Foundation and Greyhound Australia. We also thank the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland for its support of MVA’s regional QLD touring in 2024.