AUSTA: Reading Day 2024 - From Classroom to Concert Hall

Earlier this year, I had the incredible privilege of being chosen to participate in the Australian Strings Association’s reading day as both a participant and composer. Having only been writing music for string orchestras at the school level for a year, it was a delightful surprise to be invited to showcase my compositions. Both the Victoria and Queensland branches offered to feature my piece, “Willy Wagtail Waltz,” in their programs.

I am hopeful that this marks the beginning of something wonderful. As a composer, my goal has always been for my music to reach a wide audience, bringing enjoyment to listeners and performers alike. Now, as I venture into the educational aspect of composition, I am excited to see my works nurture and guide young musicians.

 Check out the live recording below! or click the image above for a score preview/ midi.

This was also my first time attending such an event. Each year, the different branches of AUSTA host a reading day to explore new string orchestra compositions. It’s an excellent opportunity to try out new repertoire, plan for the upcoming year, and find pieces that truly showcase the ensembles we lead. It was wonderful to make new acquaintances and reconnect with familiar faces from various music programs I participated in while growing up.

After the reading days, AUSTA publishes reviews of each piece played from the feedback and committee members…

AUSTA Vic

Lovely waltz. Trills, dynamic swells. Cellos get a good go. Beautiful piece.

AUSTA Qld

A useful selection to introduce students to simple triple time has a broad scope of educational elements. Captures the character of the bird. brisk waltz that includes trills to open. Mixed use of high and low send fingers for Violin 2. Cellos also use low 1. A mixture of staccatos and slurs is used throughout, along with accents and staccatos. A flowing melody passed across the ensemble, along with some contrapuntal textures. There is a piano part however it is not printed in the score. Portato bows as well. Bass mostly plays an um-papa with the viola. Detailed use of dynamics is used throughout.

Attending the Australian Strings Association’s reading day was an enriching experience that has fuelled my passion for composition and music education. Sharing my work with a community of talented musicians and educators was incredibly rewarding, and I am excited about the potential impact my compositions can have on young musicians. I look forward to continuing this journey, creating music that inspires, educates, and brings joy to audiences far and wide. As I reflect on this experience, I am filled with gratitude and anticipation for the opportunities ahead, hopeful that this is just the beginning of a fulfilling and impactful career in music composition.