Regional Talent Shines: Nine Coffs Harbour Students Selected for Statewide HICES Music Festival

Nine talented young musicians from Bishop Druitt College (BDC) have earned coveted placements at the prestigious HICES (Heads of Independent Co-Educational Schools) Music Camp, against hundreds of applicants from across New South Wales.

Following a competitive application and video audition process involving students from 23 independent schools statewide, including top metropolitan schools such as International Grammar School, St Andrew’s Cathedral School, and The Scots College, the nine BDC students were selected across a wide range of vocal and instrumental ensembles.

The successful students heading to the August camp and finale performance at Sydney Town Hall are:

• Sofia Bravo (Year 9) – Jazz Vocals (Jazz Ensemble B)
• Finlay Hunton (Year 10) – Baritone (Male Vocal Ensemble)
• Oliver Day (Year 9) – Baritone (Male Vocal Ensemble)
• Joshua Wing (Year 8) – Clarinet (Symphonic Wind Ensemble)
• Lucas Tai (Year 7) – Violin (String Orchestra)
• Margot Lawlor (Year 6) – Violin 1 (String Ensemble)
• Angela Li (Year 6) – Violin 2 (String Ensemble)
• Theo Williams (Year 6) – Alto Voice (Vocal Ensemble)
• Eido Roques (Year 6) – Oboe (Concert Band)

"Having nine of our students selected for an elite state-level program is a testament to their dedication, talent, and the strength of the music program here at BDC," said Rebecca Day, Head of Performing Arts. "Standing alongside top Sydney schools and coming away with nine placements proves that regional students can achieve excellence on any stage."

The students will travel south in August for intensive masterclasses and ensemble rehearsals with renowned conductors, culminating in a major concert at the historic Sydney Town Hall.

Back row left to right: Josh Jeremy, Margot Lawlor, Sofia Bravo, Lucas Tai, Joshua Wing, Sandra Smith. 

Front row left to right: Theo Williams, Eido Roques, Angela Li, Rebecca Day.