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Key Notes from the Courtyard | Issue 4, 2026

By August 20, 2026No Comments

Keynote from Carl

It’s been wonderful to welcome Patrick back from his sabbatical. He’s hit the ground running, and this week he’s already down in Sydney working with the NSW Regional Youth Orchestra at their winter camp, performing with the Australian World Orchestra at the end of the week. It’s a great reminder of the talented students and calibre of teachers we have here at the Con!
We have an exciting array of concerts, workshops, and events coming up this term. Whether you’re a student looking to perform, a family member wanting to support your loved ones, or simply someone who loves live music, I’d encourage you to mark your diaries. These moments when our students perform and the community gathers to celebrate music are what it’s all about.
I’d also like to give a big shout out to our fantastic volunteer community. A special mention to students Lucas, Harrison and Sophie who, along with staff member Johnshu, generously gave up their past few Sundays to pressure-clean our driveway. If you’ve been thinking about volunteering – whether at concerts, in our gardens, or around the Con we’d love to welcome you in. Even an hour makes a real difference.
We’re also delighted to welcome our new Cello teacher, Frances Yoon and Rob Langley, our piano technician, who is undertaking some work with our administration team. Welcome to the Con!
One quick reminder – AMEB exam entries are closing THIS FRIDAY!
If you are interested in an exam enrollment, please do so via our website ASAP.
It’s a busy term, and a wonderful one.
Warm regards,
Carl Schmidt
Acting CEO | Central Coast Conservatorium of Music

What’s On

SOLD OUT! Saturday 22 August @ 11:00am
As the story unfolds, student musicians and performers will create the soundtrack in real time, adding excitement, emotion, and imagination to every page.  Musical Artist Adam Manning is joining us to perform the Acknowledgement of Country. Author Deborah Kelly will also join us to read her book ‘Little Horses’.

Georg Pedersons 80th Birthday Concert
(Presented by Charmian Gadd and Friends)
August 23 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Join our patron Charmian Gadd OAM and a distinguished group of friends, colleagues and emerging artists for a special afternoon of music celebrating the 80th birthday of renowned cellist and educator Georg Pedersen. Learn more and book tickets

Premier Ensembles Concert | Term 3, 2026
Saturday 29 August @ 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Join Central Coast Conservatorium of Music for our Term 3 Premier Ensembles Concert at the Gosford High School Hall on Saturday, 29 August 2026. This celebration of music is a highlight of the Central Coast Conservatorium’s events calendar. Learn more and book tickets

Student Movie Night | All Welcome!

Friday 4 September @ 5:00pm

Grab your friends, and get ready for a fun-filled evening at our Student Movie Night! Join us for a relaxing night of entertainment, laughter, and great company as we screen a popular film on the big screen in the Robert Knox Hall. Enjoy complimentary snacks, connect with fellow students, and take a break from practicing in a welcoming and social atmosphere. Learn more and VOTE for the movie you most want to see!

Central Coast Flute Day | Limited spaces, book now!
Saturday 5 September @ 10:00am to 4:00pm
– Ensembles
– Trade Show
– Masterclasses with James Kortum and Joanne Arnott
Learn more and register

Central Coast Strings Day | Limited spaces, book now!
Saturday 5 September @ 10:00am to 4:00pm
– Ensembles
– Trade Show
– Masterclasses
Learn more and register

Recorder Ensemble Concert 
Tuesday 8 September @ 6:30pm
Discover the enchanting sound of the recorder in concert with the Central Coast Conservatorium Recorder Ensemble. Directed by Joanne Arnott, this special performance celebrates the beauty of recorder music.

Student Concert Series | Term 3, 2026
September 12 @ 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Our Student Concert Series provides a welcoming stage for our individual students to perform in the beautiful Robert Knox Hall, where the focus is on musical growth, confidence, and enjoyment.

Guitar Department Concert | Term 3, 2026
September 17 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Join us for an evening of guitar music as students of all ages take the stage in the Robert Knox Hall, performing a vibrant mix of styles and genres.  This intimate concert will feature students of Guy Strazz and Steve Smillie, showcasing their talents in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Learn more

Vocal Department Concert | Classical
18 September @ 6:30 – 8:30pm
Join Central Coast Conservatorium of Music vocal students for an unforgettable evening celebrating the classical music! Step into an evening of timeless elegance as our vocal students present a curated program of classical repertoire. Learn more

Visit our events page for more information on upcoming concerts from the Conservatorium and from our affiliated community ensembles.

Celebrating Success

Advanced Choral Workshop

What an amazing event on Friday 14 August which saw over 20 of the most promising young vocalists from our local primary schools come together at the conservatorium to work on specially selected repertoire with Artistic Director Patrick Brennan and Choral Conductor Jo McMahon.  Congratulations to all involved!

In the Spotlight

Celebrating the students, teachers, volunteers and supporters who bring music to life every day

Celebrating our Volunteer Community | The heart of your conservatorium

The magic that happens at the Central Coast Conservatorium goes far beyond the concert stage. Behind every beautiful performance, every welcoming space, and every event is a community of generous volunteers – people just like you – who believe in the power of music and the importance of supporting it together.

More than meets the eye

You might walk into the Con for a concert or lesson and see students rehearsing and teachers inspiring.

But there’s so much happening behind the scenes, and it simply wouldn’t be possible without our wonderful volunteers.

Our front gardens are flourishing thanks to the regular, generous care of Hilary and Graham, who treat our outdoor space with dedication and care.

Recently, Sophie, Harrison, Lucas and staff member Johnshu rolled up their sleeves and tackled our driveway and pathways with pressure cleaning equipment, ensuring our grounds are both clean and safe for everyone who visits. Read more….

Student Extension Opportunities

Looking for more to fill your musical bucket?
Bookmark and explore lots of exciting opportunities on the Student Extension Opportunities page of our website so you dont miss out on something amazing!

Thank you

The Central Coast Conservatorium of Music gratefully acknowledges the support of our generous donors and partners.

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