Thanks to the generous support of Wesfarmers Arts, Musica Viva Australia In Schools is bringing the joy of live music to students across Perth who may otherwise miss out.
One school to benefit from this partnership is Orange Grove Primary School, a small school which first connected with MVA a few years ago. They receive access to our In Schools education program through our Equal Music initiative, which, thanks to supporters such as Wesfarmers Arts, provides ticket subsidies to schools experiencing disadvantage – whether socio-economic, geographic, school size, or other barriers to access. Orange Grove PS loved their first MVAIS experience so much that our shows are now a regular highlight of their annual school calendar!
In June, the school eagerly welcomed the WA-based musicians from one of our newest MVAIS shows, Music of the World, for a joyous performance. The students were transported on a cultural journey from exhilarating Celtic-style jams to vibrant rhythms and melodies from across Ireland, Eastern Europe, America and Italy. A memorable and much-anticipated experience, it was clear to all present that the students had been working towards this moment for many weeks, using the MVAIS online teaching resources in class to prepare for the musicians’ visit. As soon as the ensemble’s vocalist, Mark Turner, began to sing his song, Music of the World, the students immediately sang it back to him.
'I have never seen all of our students (K-6), so engaged and showing such enjoyment for a performance as we had with the Music of the World. Singing, clapping, dancing, asking questions, and appreciating the music from over the world has been a wonderful experience for them.'
Kellie McCrum, Music Teacher, Orange Grove Primary School
Next year, MVA will celebrate 45 years of its music education program, as well as 30 years of Partnership with Wesfarmers Arts – two significant milestones which have contributed to generations of children in Perth engaging with quality music education. Together, we’re creating opportunities for all young people to experience the power of live music, regardless of their circumstances.
