News from The Arts

A wonderful achievement for Year 11 student Helen Yong, who was recently presented with her Associate in Music Australia (AMusA) Diploma in Piano from the Australian Music Examinations Board at a special ceremony held at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University. This highly regarded qualification recognises an advanced level of musical understanding and performance, and is a testament to Helen’s dedication, discipline and passion for her craft. Helen began playing piano in Year 1 and has since developed into an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, also playing the violin and previously the clarinet. After completing her AMEB Grade 8, she spent a further 18 months to two years preparing for her Diploma, a journey requiring countless hours of focused practice and perseverance. ‘There were times when I wanted to quit when I was younger,’ Helen reflects, ‘but I’m really glad now that I kept going.’ The AMusA examination process is rigorous, requiring candidates to complete a written exam, perform a memorised recital before a panel of examiners, followed by an in-depth discussion demonstrating extensive knowledge of each work. Helen’s success speaks not only to her musical ability but also her commitment, often dedicating three to four hours of daily practice while balancing her academic studies. Reflecting on her involvement in music, Helen shares that she ‘loves making new connections and just how much you learn from it. It has forced me to better with my time management, having to fit my studies in around my practice. It’s been tough to juggle it all, but I’ve had my friends encouraging me which has been really helpful.’ Beyond piano, Helen is currently working towards her Diploma in violin, as well as Grade Six Music Theory, along with commencing her second Diploma in Piano. She draws inspiration from composers such as Mendelssohn and Debussy, whose lyrical styles resonate deeply with her. A regular competitor in eisteddfods and events including the Queensland Piano Competition, Helen is also an active member of Fairholme’s trio, chamber strings and symphony orchestra. Helen’s passion for music is matched by her ambition, with aspirations to pursue a dual degree combining the arts with medicine, and one day work as a GP. She also hopes to remain involved in music beyond school, potentially performing in orchestras or even exploring violin making and repair. Helen credits her parents, teachers and friends for their support, including the weekly commitment of travelling to Brisbane for lessons. With her remarkable work ethic, Helen’s future is undoubtedly bright, and we look forward to seeing where

How long have you been involved in The Arts at Fairholme? Since I began here in Year 7, but before then I started playing piano and violin in Year 5. I have participated in a number of ensembles within the school and greatly enjoyed each of these. What does being the Prefect for The Arts mean to you? Personally, I think that being the Prefect for The Arts is primarily a role in which I can help to support other girls. I’m a designated person that girls can come to if they have any questions or concerns with anything regarding extracurricular artistic involvement, and I do a little to help with running some of the artistic aspects around the school, such as finding girls to volunteer for busking at events. But mostly, I think it is about being a positive promoter for the arts, and encouraging other girls to expand their world view to include creativity. Which art form do you enjoy most (e.g. music, drama, visual art, dance etc)? My main art form that I participate in is instrumental music, through my involvement in a few ensembles within the school on violin and piano. However, other art forms, like dancing during March Pasts or singing Shine Jesus Shine are pretty fun too. Do you have a most memorable Arts experience? I think that one of the most memorable Arts experiences that I have had has been at events where I have accompanied my grade, like when all the Year 11’s last year sung at the Valedictorian dinner and I played piano along with other instrumentalists in my grade, Tilly Anderson and Emma Salter. However, I think the most enjoyable Arts experience that I have had is playing Jingle Bell Rock at the boarding Christmas dinner last year, when the rest of my cohort stood around the piano singing. I felt that this was one of those excellent examples of how music can bring people together. What advice would you give to students who might be nervous about joining an arts activity? I would say that it is always worth giving something new a go. You’re much more likely to regret the chances you never took than the ones you do. I’m a strong believer that being involved in any form of extra-curricular activity is so beneficial for everyone; it expands your world view, you meet new people, and get outside your comfort zone. Each individual has something they are good at, and how are you going to find out what that is if you don’t try? Do you hope to continue with The Arts after school? Definitely. It has become such a big part of my life, and I honestly get so much enjoyment out of it. The great thing about the arts is that they are things that you can do at any time of your life. You’re never too old, that’s a skill you have for life. Other people can also get so much enjoyment out of the artistic abilities of others. Who doesn’t love to have someone who can sit around the camp-fire and play guitar, or create a beautiful piece of artwork?

The incredible talent of Year 9 student, Giaan Zammataro, has captured national attention with Giaan announced as the 2025 Australian Children’s Music Foundation (ACMF) National Songwriting Competition – Young Songwriter of the Year.