The end of Semester 1 2026 is already here, and the Music department is excited to share with you some final updates for what has been an incredibly busy Term 2!
A couple of weeks ago, the VCE Music students performed in our Semester 1 VCE Recital evening. Year 11 students performed a range of solo and group works as part of their Unit 1 assessment and Year 12 students performed a couple of pieces that will be part of their end of year performance exam. The VCE Recital Evening was a great way for the students to gain performance experience in front of an audience and show off some of the hard work they had been putting in all semester. We would like to thank all the family, friends, and staff who attended, and the students involved for their commitment, enthusiasm, and contribution to making the evening such a success.
By Orlando Saltalamacchia T05, 2026 Parade College Music Captain
This week, a group of Music and Performing Arts students were given the opportunity to attend the musical Stella at Monash University. Stella follows the story of pioneering Australian author Stella Miles Franklin as she faces gender discrimination, poverty, loss, and war, revealing the courage and perseverance of one of Australia’s most iconic literary figures. The musical was written by Monique di Mattina, daughter of Old Paradian Dom di Mattina who we extend our gratitude to for making this excursion possible. The performance provided students with valuable insight into the creative process behind contemporary Australian musical theatre and was an inspiring and enriching experience for all who attended.
By Orlando Saltalamacchia T05, 2026 Parade College Music Captain
It may have been 3 weeks ago, but we are still buzzing from a fantastic and sold-out production of Beauty and The Beast in partnership with Santa Maria. Below are some reflections of our graduating Year 12s, who have made such incredible contributions to our strong culture of musicals over their years here at Parade.
My favourite part of being involved in the production this year was making new friends and spending time with old ones while doing something I enjoy. I keep coming back each year because everyone is so welcoming, the rehearsals are fun, and I love the experience of learning a show and performing it for an audience. Being part of the Performing Arts at Parade has given me a strong sense of community where people with shared interests support one another and help younger students feel accepted and included.
Julian Di Marco N03 – Ensemble member
The best part of this year's production was the friendships and experiences I shared during rehearsals and performances. I felt accepted by everyone involved, had a lot of fun with my friends, and even discovered that I might be able to sing and dance. I return each year because of the invaluable experiences and support provided by the teachers, as well as the strong sense of belonging within the group. I love that I can be myself in the performing arts at Parade, explore different aspects of production, and create unforgettable memories with great friends.
Joshua Gheno N03 - Ensemble member
Having been involved in productions throughout all six years at Parade, each show has brought new life to familiar stories and strengthened an incredible sense of community. Sharing the experience with both close friends and new friends while working through the challenges of singing and dancing has been rewarding. Although production week can be demanding with early starts and constant feedback, it reminds me of how much I have grown. Productions at Parade are more than just performances—they become a family, a new experience, and an opportunity to thrive.
Thomas Gheno N05 - Ensemble member
What I have loved most about this year's production is spending time with the group of friends who feel like home to me. Their support and friendship make the entire experience meaningful. Parade's partnership with another school has also provided opportunities to meet new people and broaden that sense of community. Even as a Year 12 student, I have cherished being able to finish my time at school surrounded by lifelong friends, which is what continues to bring me back to production.
Luke Gheno N05 - Ensemble member
My favourite part of being involved in the production this year was gaining real-world experience that complemented what I have been learning through my VET Sound Production course. Although it was my first year participating, I now wish I had joined earlier after discovering how fun, engaging, and rewarding it is to help bring a polished show together. I love that the performing arts at Parade allow me to pursue my passion for music and experience the excitement of live performance firsthand.
Charlie Raco T03– Sound Assistant
We strongly encourage students to consider choosing a Music pathway and embracing the opportunity to try something new. No prior instrumental experience is required, although Music can also be a wonderful complement to existing instrumental studies.
As students’ progress into the senior years, some choose to step away from subjects such as Music to focus more heavily on their academic studies. However, research consistently suggests that students who maintain meaningful involvement in extracurricular pursuits, including the Arts, often demonstrate strong academic outcomes alongside enhanced wellbeing, motivation and self-management skills. Rather than competing with academic success, creative pursuits can play an important role in supporting a balanced and enriching education.
The College Subject Selection and VCE Expo Evening will be held early in Term 3 on Thursday 23 July. Families are encouraged to attend to learn more about the Music pathways available at Parade and discover how Music can remain an important part of a student's educational journey through to Year 12.
As a new semester approaches it is a great time to sign up for lessons and the enrolments are now reopened via this form. We particularly encourage enrolments on flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, voice and bass guitar.
Please stay tuned for more information, PAM permissions and ticket booking links in Term 3.
During Semester 1, the Music department has focused on increasing student accountability and attendance at their nominated ensemble rehearsals. We have noticed a marked increase in attendance which is fantastic and we want to see this continue for the rest of 2026. These slides, provided to students and families during Term 2 serve as a reminder of the expectations for instrumental music students.
Finally, we wish our all students, their families, and members of our community a safe and restful term break.
As always please do not hesitate to contact the Music department via music@parade.vic.edu.au with any questions.
back
