The Sound of Community
The Sound of Community
by Head of Instrumental Music, Mr Ross Capern
Music plays a significant role in the life of St Laurence's College. Every day, students are involved in rehearsals, lessons, performances and liturgical celebrations that contribute to the culture and spirit of the College.
While learning an instrument or developing vocal skills is an important part of what we do, the benefits of music extend far beyond performance. Through their involvement in ensembles, students learn commitment, teamwork, leadership and perseverance. They work towards common goals, support one another through challenges and celebrate successes together. These are experiences that help shape young men well beyond the music room.
One of the great strengths of the Lauries Music Program is the sense of belonging it provides. Students from all year levels come together through a shared passion for music, forming friendships and connections that might not otherwise occur. Whether it is a Year 5 student joining his first ensemble or a Year 12 student performing in his final concert, there is a strong sense of community that underpins everything we do.
Music is also woven into many of the College's traditions and celebrations. From assemblies and liturgies through to concerts, graduations and community events, music helps bring people together and adds something special to these important occasions. It provides opportunities for students to serve the College while sharing their talents with others.
The impact of music extends beyond our students. Performances regularly bring together families, staff, Old Boys and friends of the College, creating opportunities to connect and celebrate the achievements of our young musicians. These shared experiences help strengthen the sense of community that makes Lauries such a special place.
A highlight of every year is participation in the Queensland Catholic Colleges Music Festival (QCMF). For many students, QCMF is much more than a performance opportunity. It is a chance to work towards a common goal, represent the College with pride and experience the excitement of making music alongside thousands of young musicians from across Queensland and beyond.
The friendships formed, lessons learned and memories created through music often remain long after students leave the College.
It is a privilege to see the positive impact that music continues to have on the lives of our students and the wider Lauries community.
This year marked the 35th Queensland Catholic Colleges Music Festival (QCMF), the largest festival in its history. More than 15,500 students from 104 schools, representing over 640 ensembles from across Queensland and New Zealand, participated in this remarkable celebration of music in Catholic education.
St Laurence's College has proudly participated in QCMF for 33 years and, in 2026, was represented by 17 ensembles across the week-long festival.
Each performance is adjudicated by respected musicians and educators, with ensembles receiving a bronze, silver or gold award. We were delighted with this year's results, with Lauries ensembles receiving 11 Gold, five Silver and one Bronze award.
Beyond the awards, QCMF provides an invaluable opportunity for students to perform, learn from others and experience being part of something much larger than themselves. The festival continues to be one of the most significant and rewarding experiences available to young musicians in Catholic education.
This year was also a special opportunity to recognise members of the Lauries Music staff who were acknowledged for their longstanding contribution to QCMF through the Keith Drury Spirit of QCMF Award. I was honoured to be recognised alongside a number of valued colleagues whose dedication to music education and service to QCMF spans many years:
• Ross Capern and Angelina Ellis – 30 years of service
• Rob Anders and Anthony Young – 25 years of service
• William Brown, Alison Cook and Amanda Tio – 20 years of service
Recognition such as this is only possible because of the commitment, passion and generosity of so many staff who continually give their time and expertise to support young musicians. I am grateful to work alongside such dedicated colleagues and thank them for the outstanding contribution they continue to make to music education at Lauries and across the wider Catholic education community.