Welcome back to Term 3
Well, here we are at the start of Term 3 already, and with it a fresh batch of lessons, rehearsals, exams, and concerts to look forward to. I hope everyone managed to catch a proper rest over the break, because it’s shaping up to be a big one!
All lessons resume on Monday 20th July, and I know our studios will be buzzing again in no time as students settle back into their routines, instrument cases in tow. Whether you’re returning after a well-earned holiday or joining the Conservatorium family for the first time, we’re delighted to have you with us.
We will be kick starting the term with an “Open morning and BBQ” This will take place on Saturday 25th July starting at 9am. It will be a great opportunity to have a look around the campus and meet teachers and members of the Board. There will also be a free sheet music give away!
In Weeks 1 and 2, we are inviting parents and carers to sit in on the last 10 minutes of lessons for a brief chat with teachers (see ‘Meet the Teacher’s’ below). It’s a great chance to connect and celebrate how far our students have come and to discuss any challenges or goals.
There is a full calendar ahead, from department concerts to workshops and extension opportunities, so keep an eye on the “What’s On” section below and mark those dates in your diary.
Well done to those who were eagle eyed enough to find Paddy in our ‘Wheres Paddy’ competition. You might be hearing from us very soon to collect your yummy prize.
Here’s to a term filled with music, growth, and many proud moments along the way.
Warm regards,
Carl Schmidt
Acting CEO and Artistic Director | Central Coast Conservatorium of Music
What’s On
Term dates | please mark your diaries!
Term dates | please mark your diaries!Weeks 1 & 2 | Meet your Teacher
25 July | Open Morning & BBQ
Saturday 25 July @ 9:00am to 1:00pm
14 August | Advanced Choral Workshop
Advanced Choral WorkshopFriday 14 August @ 9.00am to 3.00pm
23 August | Georg Pedersons 80th Birthday Concert
29 August | Premier Ensembles Concert
5 September | Central Coast Flute Day | Book Now!
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
5 September | Central Coast Strings Day | Book Now!
Central Coast Strings Day | Limited spaces, book now!
Saturday 5 September @ 10:00am to 4:00pm
– Ensembles
– Trade Show
– Masterclasses
Learn more and register
12 September | Student Concert Series | Register Now!
Student Concert Series | Term 3, 202615 September | Vocal Department Concert
Vocal Department Concert | Classical17 September | Guitar Department Concert
Guitar Department Concert | Term 3, 2026Visit our events page for more information on upcoming concerts from the Conservatorium and from our affiliated community ensembles.
Celebrating Success
Number 6 in the WORLD!
While we were all relaxing and going about our lives over the term break, our amazing brass teacher, Trish O’Hearn, was in Kerkrade, Netherlands with Australia Brass participating in the World Music Contest (WMC).
We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud to announce that Australia Brass placed 6th in the entire world in the ‘Elite’ Concert Division! Congratulations Trish (and everyone in the Australia Brass Band). We are so privileged to work with and learn from you!
William Barton – Echoes of Country
At the start of the holidays, a number of our teachers and students were invited by the NSW State Library to participate in a workshop with William Barton. This initiative celebrated the passing of culture and storytelling from generation to generation, building on Barton’s profound ability to create intercultural bridges and connect audiences back to the land.
Prior to the workshop we were absolutely thrilled to welcome William and some of the state library team for a tour of the Central Coast Conservatorium during which William gifted us with a spontaneous performance in the Robert Knox Hall. This was an incredibly moving experience for everyone who was lucky enough to be on site at the time and one we will all remember for years to come.
In the Spotlight
Celebrating the students, teachers, volunteers and supporters who bring music to life every day
Our Patron | Charmian Gadd
This edition, we are both delighted and honoured to shine the spotlight on our much-loved and incredibly dedicated Patron, Charmian Gadd.
Charmian will be hosting an incredible concert at the Central Coast Conservatorium on Saturday, 23 August, in honour of her dear friend, cellist Georg Pedersen. We strongly encourage all of our readers to attend this event, which will feature some of Australia’s best-established and up-and-coming musicians. (Tickets available soon so be sure to keep an eye on our website!)
Charmian also recently shared a snapshot of her story with us, and it now features on our website. We know you’ll love reading it as much as we have. From a little girl practising on the verandah of her family’s settler’s cottage on Brush Road, Ourimbah, to walking the trails with musicians returning from the war. These musicians, discharged with their rifles and uniforms still in hand, would come up from Sydney to spend their weekends playing string quartets and shooting rabbits.
From there, she went on to grace the most famous concert stages of the world, with The Times of London once declaring:
“If ever a woman was born to play concertos, it is Australian violinist Charmian Gadd.”
We invite you to read a little of her incredible story here.
Student Extension Opportunities
Thank you
The Central Coast Conservatorium of Music gratefully acknowledges the support of our generous donors and partners.
Know someone who would enjoy Conservatorium programs?
Share this newsletter with family and friends.
New subscribers can sign up for our newsletter here
