Mark has just finished playing Keyboard 1 for a production of the new version of “Cinderella”. As well as a new book, the musical has additional songs and new orchestrations, meaning ~200 patch (keyboard sound) changes, and several weird and wonderful sound effects, in his book. Great orchestra with friends old and new! Most of the musicals he plays for are happy to have a student “sit in” the orchestra pit to watch and listen to what goes on, so this opportunity is available for students at the Studio.
The Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) - whose piano syllabus Mark uses as a basis for all students wishing to pursue exams, supplemented by other pieces from a variety of sources - have just released the new “Series 19” books of piano music for all grades: and they’re great!!! His students are enjoying working through the new music, from all eras from 17th century Baroque to 20th century contemporary. Well done to Angela Turner from the Queensland Conservatorium for curating the new series…
Mark is currently Musically Directing a production of an Australian play with music called “The Heartbreak Choir”. The script gives freedom for each production to choose (and, importantly, license!!!) their own music based on some broad parameters, and our production has chosen to feature Australian pop music. In arranging five songs for an a capella (unaccompanied) group of up to 7 singers, backed by a 20 person choir, its amazing how much of the musical theory Mark learned in his teens is still facilitating and informing his arrangements!!
Mark teaches all three of the AMEB syllabi in this area - Music Craft (which he recommends as the most practical stream for the performer), Musicianship and Theory - and recommends that all his piano students consider studying in one of these streams to supplement and support their practical study.
