Over two days in Week 6, Newington College was privileged to host four musicians from the Royal Australian Navy Band – Sydney Detachment. The four members led a series of intensive jazz workshops with all four of our Senior School jazz ensembles and were suitably impressed with the standard and enthusiasm of our boys. Topics covered included – various jazz styles, jazz articulations, improvisation, ensemble playing, rehearsal etiquette as well as insights into the life of a professional military musician.

We are fortunate at Newington to have such a strong level of involvement in jazz led by a team of talented tutors and staff. This depth is recognised within the broader community with leading performances throughout each year at events such as the Manly International Jazz Festival, various eisteddfods and our annual Darling Harbour Jazz Showcase. My thanks go to Mr Stephen Foxe, who also leads two of our jazz ensembles, for his support in making this inaugural event come to fruition.

Luke Gilmour
Director of Bands