Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy students from Coen and Hope Vale will hone their musical skills at Band Camp as they prepare to perform at the Yarrabah Music and Cultural Festival. Photo: Supplied.
From smooth saxophones to tonal trumpets and powerful percussion, music will bring Coen and Hope Vale youth together as they prepare to share their talents at the Yarrabah Music and Cultural Festival on 12 September.
Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy (CYAAA) students will spend a week developing their skills under the guidance of experienced musicians and specialist tutors at the annual Good to Great Schools Australia (GGSA) Band Camp in Cairns, where they will rehearse a range of repertoire to be performed at the festival.
Choir and dance will also form an important part of the week, with students rehearsing in language and incorporating traditional dance into the program.
“Band Camp gives our young people the opportunity to work hard at something they enjoy, develop their talents, and experience the pride that comes from performing together,” GGSA deputy director Bernardine Denigan said.
“Music brings people together. These students will come from Coen and Hope Vale, learn together throughout the week, and then take what they have achieved onto a stage where their families and communities can celebrate with them.”
Students will work in smaller instrumental sections and rehearse as a full band, giving them the chance to develop individual skills while learning to perform as an ensemble.
Alongside the musical program, students will continue their schoolwork, as well as engage in social activities for the two communities to spend time together and build new friendships.
This year, GGSA marks 10 years of coordinating the annual Band Camp for Cape York students.
“Every child should have the opportunity to experience a great music education, regardless of where they live,” Ms Denigan said.
“For 10 years, Good to Great Schools Australia has been proud to coordinate Band Camp and help create opportunities for Cape York students to learn from specialist musicians, develop their talents and experience performing for a live audience.”
