Director of Music | Mr Derek Rose
A Musical Journey
Byron Jackson
To say that the journey through Terrace Music is like any other school experience is a complete understatement. My adventure since Year 7 as a trumpet player has rocked and changed my world and has given me a love of music and opportunities I could never have envisioned. In only Year 8, I was given a chance to join the 2017 USA Music Tour; this was hands down one of the best experiences of my life. For a 13-year-old to be playing with professionals across California and Indianapolis in multiple festivals taught me so much and shaped my understanding of music, instilling in me a love of different genres of music, but specifically developing a love of jazz.
Since then, I have had the opportunity to perform in multiple concerts. The Terrace Jazz Nights have been particularly memorable. Playing at Boggo Road Jail and being a part of the All-Stars Jazz band when you reach Year 12 is very special. Being involved in competitions such as QCMF and performing at the Celebration of Excellence is important because you feel like part of a larger community, working together to perform at your best. The notion of teamwork is significant when you participate in the Anzac Day March. This event is a privilege as we are one of the few schools that are able to do so.
The teachers who have invested in me and my music have played a significant role in my Terrace journey. Mr Esbensen has been particularly inspiring and has helped shape my journey as a trumpet player, encouraging me through nominations to the State Honours Ensemble Program at the Queensland Conservatorium of music, which was an incredible experience supporting my AMEB achievements. I have gained friendships, knowledge, connections with people, and more love for music. Making your way into Terrace Music is always scary, particularly when you audition for the top bands and perform in front of your peers – but when I look back now, I wouldn’t change a thing.
I have taken away so much from these experiences, and my time at Terrace is almost up. I urge every Music student to take on everything offered to them and be a part of history at this great school, Gregory Terrace.
Byron Jackson
Battle of the Rock Bands
Last Friday evening, the Terrace Rock Band, under the direction of Mr Michael Grabbe, competed in the Battle of the Rock Bands competition held at Clairvaux Mackillop College. The Rock Band received a Silver Award and should be immensely proud of their performance and how they represented the College.
Year 5 Orientation Evening
Congratulations to all students in Concert Band 3, Youth Choir, Waterford String Quartet and Waterford Strings 4 on their fine performances Wednesday this week at the Year 5 2022 Orientation evening. Thank you to our Music staff, Mrs Domenica Kelly, Mr Craig Dabelstein and Mr Jacob Bradford, for their ongoing work behind the scenes in preparing these students for their performances.
Music Practice Hall
Due to the Celebration of Excellence on Monday 18 October there will be no Music Practice Hall in the afternoon. This will resume on Monday 25 October.