Talented students showcased at recital
The semi-annual concert was organised by Corowa music teacher Bernadette Woodward.
“Mum tries to do this every year, to showcase the students, to show how well they have gone,” Eric Woodward, who shares teaching duties with his mother, explained.
“I teach drums, mum does keyboard, guitar and singing,” he said.
Mr Woodward has been playing drums for twenty years and has been teaching for nine. His youngest student is five-years old and the oldest is in his forties.
Irrespective of a student’s age or experience level, Mr Woodward believes that getting
A shared love of music and an eagerness to learn more about the art of live performance recently brought 20 local musicians together for a recital at the Wahgunyah School of Arts.
to grips with the challenges of public performance is an important step in their education.
“The experience of being in front of a crowd is learning as well,” he said.
For many of the students, being able to play an instrument and sing at the same time is an important personal goal.
While singing is not the focus of her tuition, Ms Woodward can include basic vocal tuition into her lessons.
“I do the basics of singing, get them in key and get them going. That is why I give them the experience with the band. If they want to singing professionally then they go to a singing teacher,” Ms Woodward said.
As the 70-seat hall filled to capacity, the nervous excitement of the singers and musicians back stage became palpable. For many, this was their first public performance.
Cheryl Doyle is one of a handful of adult students at the Woodward’s music school.
“I have done a few (performances) but I still get really nervous, knowing your chords and music and trying to put it all together. There is so much going on all at once,” Ms Doyle said.
Looking out from the stage she sees that many of the faces in the crowd are parents of her fellow students.
“I know they are here for the kids, that is their main focus, but it gives me a bit of confidence too,” she said.