25 Jun 2021
On Tuesday, 15 June to Thursday, 17 June students from years 7-12 journeyed to Elanora Heights Uniting Venues for the annual CHS Music Camp. We had three days of intensive rehearsals and instrumental sectionals in preparation for our Music Night on Friday, 28 June. The weather was so beautiful and the venue was located amongst picturesque bushland.
After a full first day of rehearsals we had a movie night run by the Music Captains. The students all voted to watch Disney’s Ratatouille, which was entertaining and a real hoot for the teachers as well.
On the Wednesday evening, we all enjoyed the annual music camp talent quest, where students could perform in front of a supportive audience and show off their talents. There was a variety of serious and fun performances which everyone enjoyed, and even the teachers got involved, getting up to perform an incredible rendition of "Iko Iko" on piano, ukulele, violin, voice and a variety of percussion! Everyone finished off the night with a lively disco.
Thursday morning was once again filled with rehearsals, and after lunch the amazing tech and stage crews began the mammoth task of repacking the truck. Another successful music camp was over as we boarded the bus and headed back to school.
On our return to school the next day, we were busy with sound checks and we finished off the whole week with a fantastic music night. Everyone demonstrated how much they had improved throughout the week and it truly was a night of musical excellence. The students and staff had all worked extremely hard and each ensemble truly put on their best performance. The night ended spectacularly with a memorable performance by the combined Orchestra, SWE and Music Camp choirs singing ‘O Fortuna’ and ‘Nella Fantasia’. For the final act, there were over 200 students on stage from years 7-12.
We would like to thank all the Caringbah High staff who came on music camp with us and helped music night run smoothly. Thanks again stage crew and tech crew, all of our fantastic tutors and conductors, the music support group and everyone else involved.
Here’s what some of the students had to say about this year’s Music camp:
On the morning of Tuesday, 15 June, 200 CHS students packed into four buses, driving off to Elanora Heights bright eyed, bushy tailed and excited for the coming days at music camp, and we were not disappointed! From tutorials to the combined orchestra SWE and choirs rehearsals to the Movie and Talent Nights, this year's Music Camp was great. Across the campgrounds all day it was non-stop rehearsing. Since I was one of this year's photographers of the Camp I was able to observe almost every group, watching and listening to the determined efforts of students preparing for Friday’s Music Night, experiencing the diverse sounds ranging from the Junior choir to Jazz Orchestra and all Contemporary Music Program bands. Sadly, the good times had to stop as we all waved goodbye to the camp Thursday evening, hoping to get enough sleep before the concert the next day. Personally, I want to thank the efforts Ms Gough and the Music Captains Arthur and Simone who put into this camp, since it wouldn't have happened without you! Thank you to the tutors and teachers for putting up with us for three straight days. Without any of you, none of us students could have had the incredible time we had. I'm happy that this was the final Music Camp all us year 12s could experience. This Music Camp was one of the best EVER.
(Jack Year 12)
Last week, our school went on Music Camp which lasted for three days. Once we got there, the action started straight away. Planned rehearsals commenced and students dedicated most of their time to mastering their instruments and musical pieces. The rest of the days were spent busy in rehearsals. On the first night, we had a movie night at which colourful pyjamas were required, and stuffed animals were invited. Mrs Gough held a vocal vote based on variety, pitch, and tone colour to determine which movie to watch… Ratatouille was the clear winner! The second night consisted of a talent show. Many students and teachers participated with serious and funny acts including, comedy performances, musical pieces, and other special talents. The winner of this night was LJ with their amazing guitar and singing performance, a well-deserved win! Afterwards, there was a very fun disco. On the third day, we had a few rehearsals before packing the truck with the percussion instruments. After this, we safely made our way home.
(Jessica Year 9)
Throughout music camp, I really enjoyed having the section tutorials where my sections could really get in time and sound together. Once we got to that point it was fun to add in the dynamics and style. I also liked the movie night and talent quest where we watched some of the most talented acts perform (hot cross buns!). Overall it was a really fun and helpful experience.
(Hudson Year 8)
This year, music camp was especially enjoyable. Having waited two years from the previous music camp, the many events were highly anticipated by all. For me, music camp mostly involved the playing, assembly, movement and hauling of percussion equipment. This, I found thrilling and interesting as hitting things with sticks and mallets is the best part of music, in my opinion. On the first night, we had a movie night, where we watched 'Ratatouille', followed by a disco. My favourite part of that night was being allowed to wear our pyjamas and bring along our cuddly toys! I also thoroughly enjoyed the second night, which involved the talent quest. There were so many great performances, from jazz ensembles to comedy work. Personally, it was a special experience to be able to play the guitar and sing in front of a crowd of talented musicians.
All in all, music camp this year was a truly memorable experience thanks to the many teachers and students who helped make it run smoothly. And, a special thanks to Mrs Gough, who organised the entire camp and our combined camp performance: Nella Fantasia!
(LJ Year 10)
