It was a great thrill to have accomplished theatre performer, Derek Taylor, join our SHC vocalists and teachers for the inaugural Vocal Master Class in McAuley Hall on Sunday 23 May, 9.30am - 5.00pm. It was an early start for everyone, but after a hot beverage to get started, the group of around 30 students from SHC, Geelong College and Geelong Grammar were happily singing in harmony together.

Derek is a graduate of Elder Conservatorium in Adelaide and the Queensland Conservatorium respectively. He has performed extensively in theatrical productions of Cats, Chess, The Secret Garden, Phantom of the Opera, and Chicago to name just a few.

Derek’s warmth, wit and musical expertise soon had all participants engaged, and his direction during the two Master Class sessions was invaluable. Vocalists tried new techniques, and explored a variety of ways in which to interpret text and communicate more effectively with their audience.

To conclude the afternoon session, parents and friends were invited to an informal concert in McAuley Hall which was well attended and enthusiastically received. The concert featured choir pieces rehearsed during the group singing sessions, and three soloists put into practice some of their newly learned ideas for the receptive audience.

Many thanks to Derek for an unforgettable day, and to SHC’s incredibly talented Vocal Teachers, Anna- Lee Robertson and Kate Rees for establishing this wonderful event, which we hope will continue year on year.

Christine Wilson, Arts Program Coordinator