The Heart of Gold in Music

Music continues to shape and strengthen the culture of our school in remarkable ways. At its heart, our program creates an environment where every student is able to participate, contribute and feel valued—regardless of background, ability or personality. The inclusive nature of music ensures that students with diverse strengths, interests and learning styles can each find their own meaningful place to belong.

Through the shared experience of rehearsals and performances, students develop a strong sense of connection and collective pride. Working together toward a common musical goal not only builds confidence but also deepens the bonds between students, teachers and families. Each performance becomes a moment where students see the impact of their commitment and teamwork, contributing to something larger than themselves.

One of the most exciting pathways into our program is the Year 5 Beginner Music Program. For many students, this is their first opportunity to learn a musical instrument and participate in an ensemble. This early experience often ignites a passion that carries them through to Year 12, forming the foundation of a vibrant and engaged musical community.

This year’s performance calendar is especially rich, with workshops involving other schools and professional musicians—including a special collaboration with the New York Staff Brass Band of the Salvation Army. Our year-long concert program offers something for everyone including: formal concerts, cabaret evenings and jazz nights that bring students, staff and families together to celebrate music in all its diversity. 

A highlight of our musical year is the Queensland Catholic Colleges Music Festival, a cherished event where Catholic schools from across Queensland gather to share their love of music. Our school is proudly represented by 20 ensembles, each contributing to a supportive and uplifting atmosphere that celebrates excellence and community spirit.

Beyond the stage, the Lauries Music Support Group plays a vital role in nurturing our culture. From organising the annual trivia night to preparing pre-concert BBQs throughout the year, their efforts help foster a welcoming and connected community where families feel at home.

At Lauries, music involves everyone. Whether at Mass, the House Choir, sport or assembly, the school raises its voice in unity and collective identity. The Year 12 students teach the school song to the new Year 5 and Year 7 students on their first day. Then, the Seniors teach the whole school the new hymn for the year, which they have chosen and premiered at their Leadership Camp Mass. The school worship songs, with their messages of hope and consolation, powerfully support the boys at times of joy and sorrow and accompany rites of passage.

The music continues long after boys leave school. Each year, in the Old Boys and Community Choir season, students from the 1960s to the present join with members of the community in a concert involving choirs, brass, guitars and strings. The concert raises money for charity and enables many generations of past students to meet and work together for a good cause. Our students also take music into the community, putting songs in the hearts of those at the margins at Emmanuel City Mission as well as singing for the Archdiocese in the Cathedral Choir.\

Music at Lauries is more than a subject - it is a powerful force that builds community, shapes identity and enriches the lives of our students. Through every rehearsal, performance and shared musical moment, we continue to cultivate a positive, inclusive culture that resonates well beyond the classroom and builds our Heart of Gold.