The Brisbane State High School Symphonic Band has been awarded the Erica Brindley Memorial Trophy, the top honour at the Instrumental Fanfare Secondary Schools State Final.
Minister for Education, Grace Grace congratulated the Brisbane State High School Symphonic Band and the Robertson State School Paganini Strings, winner in the Primary Schools final of Instrumental Fanfare.
“I’d like to congratulate all five primary and five secondary State school ensembles on their spectacular final performances, as well as every single school and student that took part in the Fanfare program this year,” Ms Grace said.
“Some of the performances of these exceptionally talented youngsters are on par with professionally-paid musicians and this is tribute to both the students and their expert teachers.”
The award of the Erica Brindley Memorial Trophy went to Brisbane State High School honouring an accomplished musician and teacher who lost her life at Carnarvon Gorge in 2002 during the Urangan State High School Concert Band’s outback music tour.
It is not the first time Robertson State School Paganini Strings conductor, Robyn Gray has won at Fanfare
She was part of the Bundaberg State High School String Ensemble that won the Lin Powell Perpetual Trophy in 1998.
Ms Grace said the Fanfare festival encouraged participation, showcased outstanding talent, promoted the highest possible performance standards and inspired young students to strive for excellence.
“After a break in 2020 due to the pandemic it is great to see Fanfare back, brighter than ever, and it has been wonderful to have young people playing music together again in front of live audiences,” Ms Grace said.
Fanfare was initiated in 1985 to showcase instrumental music education in State schools in Queensland through regional festivals and finals which culminate in in the State finals.
