IGS Music Showcase Gala 2025 filled the IGS Hall with music, magic and imagination on Monday 27 October, celebrating the theme Fables, Tales, Myths: Our Musical Stories.
From lyrical ballads and programmatic works to bold new compositions, audiences were transported across time, place and culture – from Bronze Age mythology to 1950s civil rights, the mystery of the Congo forest and even the joyous theatrics of Eurovision and Finnish sauna.
A highlight of the evening was the premiere of Flight of the Firehawk, the 2025 IGS Commissioned Work. This special piece emerged from our Composer in Residence Program, crafted collaboratively by Dr Harry Sdraulig, IGS Music staff and our talented Year 3 students. Performing their own music with pride, our young musicians embodied the School’s commitment to story-driven, creative learning.
Darren Kuilenburg Director of Music reflected on the night as “far more than a concert – it was a genuinely moving celebration of what happens when creativity, care and shared purpose come together.”
“These kinds of events do not appear by magic. They are the product of your enormous generosity of time, the countless rehearsals, the thoughtful musical and logistical planning and the kindness and encouragement all our staff offer our students daily. I am also grateful to our Year 3 classroom colleagues, whose support allowed their students to step onto the stage with such confidence in their debut performance.”
In the days following the event, families and staff shared their admiration for the performances:
“Yet another musical triumph.”
“The expression on the children’s faces was so emotive.”
“Such an incredible range of talent across the school.”
The annual Music Gala once again showcased the strength of the IGS Music Program – not only in performance, but in how it is experienced and celebrated by the community.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event. Your presence made this evening of musical storytelling unforgettable. And a special thank you to our dedicated Music Department for their passion, guidance and countless hours of preparation in helping our students share their musical stories so beautifully.
