Regional students band together for unique performance

Regional students in South Australia are coming together for a unique performance, uniting with members of the Adelaide Youth Orchestra (AYO) for a one-day concert. This annual event, now in its third year, provides instrumental music students from 14 schools across the Mid North and Southern Flinders Ranges the opportunity to practice their craft with a full ensemble.

For many students, this is the first time in five years they have had access to in-person music lessons, with some attending through the Department for Education's Instrumental Music program.

Music teacher Kate Mawson, who previously taught online, conceived the idea of bringing students together in a central location. "Learning instruments in such a remote way, what better way to come with a common interest in one central location," she said. Creative communication methods, such as using colorful dots on instruments, helped overcome the challenges of online learning.

Student Lucas Wood, who plays the trumpet, found in-person lessons much easier than online. "Online is a bit trickier than in person because trumpets are pretty loud, so sometimes it doesn't cross through," he said. Toby Nutt, another student performer, had mixed reactions from his family about practicing at home. Despite the challenges, the concert offers students the chance to see the AYO in action and gain valuable ensemble experience.