Media and Communications Blog

Photo: Sophia Mackson

I have sent postcards home to my parents on both of my visits to National Music Camp. Attempting to explain to them the nature of camp and how wonderful it is is something I find very challenging to do. A little postcard has limited room, but there is a lot to say! So, if I had more space, I would say this:


Conductors Natalia Louie-Bassa and Alexander Briger, Andrew Haveron, the head of the Walsh Chamber Orchestra, Monica Curro, the creative director of the AYO National Music Camp, Jonathan Mills, the composer and festival director, and Richard Wigley, the CEO of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, have all spoken to us this week. The discussions were all engaging and provided information about the many professions in the classical music sector. Knowing that those in charge in the classical music industry genuinely value the opinions of up-and-coming musicians gives me optimism; I feel more strongly that my creative voice matters to the world and that my ideas and opinions are respected in the microcosm of music.


We’ve had the opportunity to watch each of the three orchestras’ rehearsals in addition to writing for the media and communications course. Compared with my prior experience in the orchestra, I am appreciating the different perspective of being in the audience; I love seeing the orchestra evolve from day one to the concert. The musicians each put so much hard work into their parts, and to see the joy that playing with others brings them is palpable.

I am really looking forward to this week since I have learnt so much this year at NMC! The media and communications course has taught me so much, and working with Ed Le Brocq has been an invaluable experience that I now feel I have words to describe. It has been an honour to learn from someone who is so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about what they do, and for that I am really grateful. The course has given me confidence in my future because I am learning so much about writing, music, and myself. It is so thrilling to feel as though I can now glimpse my future, and the path that lies ahead.

This is what I’d send on my postcard to my parents, and hopefully they’d be able to read my handwriting enough to understand my thoughts. Last time that was a complaint from my dad…

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