NEEKAH STRICKLAND
Griffith University is sponsoring the local initiative ‘Schoolyard Blues’ for the second year in a row at the 2016 Blues on Broadbeach music festival.
The ‘Schoolyard Blues’ program provides school students from South-East Queensland the opportunity to showcase their talents in a professional festival setting.
Five schools including Guardian Angels, Aquinas College, Kinston State College, Nerang High and Franciscan College will be performing at the free festival this year.
These local students will be performing on May 20 at the main stage in Victoria Park between 9:25am till 1:55pm for 20-minute intervals.
These young musicians will be playing alongside a variety of blues icons, such as Eric Burdon and The Animals, Diesel and The Bamboos.
Deputy Director of Queensland Conservatorium Dr Donna Weston said that this is a huge opportunity for chosen students.
“Blues on Broadbeach festival is a great place to showcase young musicians as it has a diverse audience, with a broad age demographic,” said Dr Weston.
“Schoolyard Blues was seen as another opportunity to support these emerging young musicians and give them a taste of where their potential could lead them.”
Nerang High’s Head of Performing Arts Mrs Acott said her school students are excited for the opportunity to play at the music festival a second year in a row.
“Some of our students were involved last year and loved playing the event and the feedback from the community was great,” said Mrs. Acott.
“I think it’s really important for students to be given opportunities to express themselves creatively in a safe environment and because of the nature of Blues on Broadbeach, our students value the experience.”
The schedule below outlines the playing times of ‘Schoolyard Blues’ participants:
Victoria Park, Friday 20 May
9:45am – 10:05am: Guardian Angels
11:00am – 11:20am: Aquinas College
11:40am – 12:00pm: Kingston State College
12:14pm – 12:35pm: Nerang High Funk Band
1:35pm – 1:55pm: Franciscan College Rock Band