State school instrumental music stars shine at Fanfare finals

The incredible talents of Queensland state school students have wowed audiences at the 2018 Fanfare grand final concerts, held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre this week.

Education Minister Grace Grace said 10 ensembles from state primary and secondary schools across Queensland took part in the concerts on 13 and 14 August.

“Fanfare showcases the incredible talent and the exceptionally high standard of instrumental music programs in our state schools,” Ms Grace said.

“All ensembles should be extremely proud of their achievements in making it to the grand finals in Brisbane, with more than 1100 ensembles participating in the regional festivals.

“It’s easy to see why Queensland state schools have such an outstanding reputation in instrumental music – we’re the envy of the other states and territories.

“The Palaszczuk Government is a passionate supporter of fostering creative talent in our schools and that’s why we’re investing $14.4 million over the next four years to employ more instrumental music teachers.

“I applaud all students for their efforts in reaching the Fanfare finals and I commend their conductors for displaying such commitment to nurturing creative talent in our state school students.

“Special congratulations go to the ensembles from Banksia Beach State School and The Gap State High School, who received the adjudicator’s highest recognition at each of the concerts – well done!”

Banksia Beach State School’s Advanced Concert Band was selected as the most outstanding ensemble during the primary concert on Monday and given the honour of opening the secondary grand final on Tuesday.

The Gap State High School’s Asymmetry percussion ensemble was the most impressive secondary school, taking out the Erica Brindley Memorial trophy.

The Erica Brindley Memorial trophy honours a dedicated past state school instrumental music teacher and her passion for music education in Queensland.

More than 30,000 students from 515 state schools across 54 regional locations took part in Fanfare 2018, highlighting the exemplary musicianship state-wide.

Fanfare program partner, international venue management group AEG Ogden, has sponsored the program since 2012.

A full list of the ensembles which performed at the Fanfare 2018 grand final concert is listed below. More information is available at http://education.qld.gov.au/community/fanfare/index.html.

Fanfare 2018 Grand Final Performers

Primary schools

Ashgrove State School Senior Strings

Conductor: Keith Sharp

Banksia Beach State School Advanced Concert Band

Conductor: Martin O'Callaghan

Ironside State School Chamber Strings

Conductor: Trudy Weekes

The Willows State School Senior Concert Band

Conductor: Ruby Johnson

Varsity College Acacia String Ensemble

Conductor: Michelle Wilson

Secondary

Brisbane State High School Symphonic Band

Conductor: Bradley Ruben

Cairns State High School Symphony Orchestra

Conductor: Jon Christodoulides

Centenary Heights State High School Senior String Ensemble

Conductor: Jessica Johansen

Stretton State College Symphonic Band

Conductor: Adam Hornagold

The Gap State High School Asymmetry

Director: Jeff Jarrott 

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