The Hunter Wind Ensemble (HWE) is continuing to revel in the afterglow of its recent tour to Tasmania.
The regional band, for public school students in Years 5 to 12, spent 10 days in the Apple Isle, honing its skills while gaining experience on the road.
Previously, the HWE travelled extensively overseas with highly-successful international tours, providing the students with once-in-a-lifetime performance opportunities and unforgettable memories.
And, it’s also made its mark within Australia.
In 2019, the Hunter Wind Ensemble toured Central Australia with a number of exciting shows in locations such as Alice Springs, Uluru, Kings Canyon and Cooper Pedy.
Three years later, the youngsters ventured to western NSW, including Dubbo, Parkes and Leeton, for the Leeton Outback Band Spectacular.
But, on this occasion, after leaving Merewether High School, the members visited many sites including Constitution Dock, Mount Wellington, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, University of Tasmania, Royal Botanical Garden, Port Arthur, Beaconsfield Mine & Museum, Seahorse World and Platypus House while also performing at a couple of venues – MONA and St David’s Park – to the delight of local audiences.
“Everyone had a wonderful time,” manager Alison Tenorio said.
“They performed in front of some stunning backdrops.
“I’m sure they’ll remember it for a long while.
“The Hunter Wind Ensemble provides an engaging and supportive environment for talented woodwind, brass and percussion musicians to develop their skills while presenting exciting wind band repertoire.
“The HWE rehearses for a full day, generally twice a school term, at the Merewether High School Learning Centre.
“Additional practice is scheduled to coincide with performance commitments.
“The Hunter Wind Ensemble tours locally, interstate – like the recent Tasmania trip – and internationally.
“Not only do the pupils enjoy their time with the ensemble, but they learn so much as well.”
Meanwhile, the Hunter Singers – a vibrant community choir organisation based in Newcastle dedicated to nurturing and developing young voices and promoting Australian choral music – enjoyed an awesome three days at their first camp in four years.
Special guest Dr Christopher Allan worked on vocal technique and repertoire.
The students then put what they learnt into practice at Wood Glen in Erina for a very appreciative audience.
It’s understood this very impressive group of youngsters demonstrated great musicianship and resilience.
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