STUDENTS from the region are making their mark in the arts, 30 having returned from, and one soon to be in, performances in huge Sydney venues.
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Narrabri Public School girls recently sang in the 2019 Festival of Choral Music in the Opera House, in a choir of more than 700 students.
And Gemma Hawkins of Quirindi High School has been named in the signing choir at Schools Spectacular in November, at QUDOS Bank Arena in Olympic Park.
Memorable event
The Narrabri students had a "remarkable night, something they will remember for the rest of their lives", teacher Sharon Stoltenberg said.
"The lights, sounds and atmosphere in the Opera House were amazing, with the girls experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform on a world-renowned stage," Ms Stoltenberg said.
They performed 11 songs, accompanied by the NSW Public Schools orchestra. Their school was also one of just two to be interviewed for the audience.
"Chloe Large was a wonderful ambassador for Narrabri," Ms Stoltenberg said.
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"She shared information about our town, location, the unique experience and being part of a rural school."
Ms Stoltenberg said the girls "gave their time after school each week, learnt long and complex songs, and remained dedicated to the choir and all practices for over two school terms".
She said their commitment had paid off with improved skills and technique, as well as representing their region in the iconic venue.
Awe-inspiring
Year 12 student Gemma was "ecstatic" to be included again in Hunter Signing Choir in her fifth and last performance with them.
She will start rehearsing with them in Newcastle and Sydney next term.
"The choir are very flexible and understand I am undertaking my HSC; they post the rehearsal videos online, which is great," she said.
The 18-year-old said the scale of the Schools Spectacular, with 5000-plus performers, made it "an impressive production to be part of".
"Its large scale and seeing it all come together is awe-inspiring, as is being on stage during the performances," she said.
A spokesperson said the school was "very proud" of the teen, born with moderate to severe hearing loss, for being chosen "to represent all those with hearing impairments and our school".
Carolyn Millet
Based at The Northern Daily Leader, Tamworth, and Namoi Valley Independent, Gunnedah. Covering general news and features on community, council, arts, business, health, education, entertainment and rural matters.
Based at The Northern Daily Leader, Tamworth, and Namoi Valley Independent, Gunnedah. Covering general news and features on community, council, arts, business, health, education, entertainment and rural matters.
