Bands impress at Fanfare finale

Brisbane audiences were treated to a night of stellar performances as five of Queensland’s best state school instrumental ensembles battled it out at Fanfare 2014 on Friday night.

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek congratulated students for their outstanding performances at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

“As one of Queensland’s most prestigious music festivals, only the most talented bands and orchestras can make it through to the grand finale of Fanfare,” Mr Langbroek said.

“Brisbane State High School Symphonic Band put on a star performance and is a worthy winner of the Erica Brindley Memorial Trophy.

“All the finalists wowed the audience, not just with exceptional music, but also with their obvious passion for their art.”

Mr Langbroek said the Fanfare performances were testament to the high quality of music education available in Queensland state schools.

“The Queensland Government strongly supports music in schools and we are committed to giving all students access to the instruments and expertise they need,” he said.

“We’re delivering on our commitment by investing an additional $2.46 million into state school music programs to support the transition of Year 7 into secondary school next year.

“The funding will allow 226 state schools across Queensland to purchase more equipment and instruments for their music programs, and employ 16.7 fulltime equivalent music teachers.

“This will continue to ensure our instrumental music programs provide quality instruction and unequalled performance opportunities for students who participate in music education.”

A total of 833 ensembles from 400 schools, consisting of more than 22,000 students, participated in Fanfare music festivals held in 48 regional centres across Queensland in May and June.

“Fanfare partner and international venue management group AEG Ogden has provided vital support and funding for the event, once again demonstrating how public-private partnerships can benefit Queensland,” Mr Langbroek said.

AEG Ogden Chairman and CEO Harvey Lister said the organisation was proud to support Fanfare 2014, following the company’s sponsorship of the 2013 Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Instrumental Music (MOST).

“It’s a pleasure to partner with the Queensland Government to promote the development of Queensland musicians, and our team at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre were delighted to host the grand final event and the outstanding students who performed,” Mr Lister said.

Fanfare 2014 Grand Finalists

Brisbane State High School Symphony Orchestra – Conductor: Meg Robson

Mansfield State High School Camerata – Conductor: Lisa Stevenson

Pimlico State High School Orpheus Chamber Strings – Conductor: Richard Newell

Brisbane State High School Symphonic Band – Conductor: Brad Ruben

Cairns State High School Orchestra – Conductor: Jon Christodoulides

[ENDS] 11 August 2014