Year 9 Elective Music - Sydney Opera House Visit

On Thursday 4 September, the Year 9 Elective Music class travelled to the Sydney Opera House for a guided tour and to experience the Sydney Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Chief Conductor Simone Young, one of Australia’s foremost interpreters of Richard Strauss’ music. The program included several works, notably Thus Spoke Zarathustra. Australian pianist Andrea Lam also featured, showcasing her accomplished technical skills alongside the virtuosity of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Special thanks to Ms Slender, Mr Aziz and Ms Curtis for accompanying the students on the day.

Student highlights of the Sydney Opera House visit included:

Emma Daniels

I really enjoyed learning about the history of the Opera House, especially the types of performances held there and the famous artists who have performed in the past. The Sydney Symphony concert itself exceeded my expectations, with my personal favourite being Thus Spoke Zarathustra. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this experience, but I’m truly grateful to have had the opportunity.

Alyssa Devile

I had a wonderful first visit to the Sydney Opera House. The tour of the building was fascinating, with so many stories behind each room, wall, and painting. Simone Young was incredible as a conductor, and the orchestra sounded amazing. My personal favourite was the Thus Spoke Zarathustra. The performance was elegant, clear, and the instruments blended together beautifully. I also really enjoyed our free time and spending it with my friends. Overall, the whole day was an amazing and fun experience.

Kristijan Dumesic

It was a great day and I enjoyed being with my friends and the experience of going out with my friends. I also enjoyed visiting the Sydney Opera House for the first time and it was a great experience. I also learned a lot from the day and visiting the different Concert Halls, they  were amazing.

Mia Ruggiero

Our Music excursion was an unforgettable experience! The Sydney Opera House tour was fascinating, and I loved learning about its unique architecture and history. Listening to the Sydney Symphony Orchestra live was incredible, especially the beautiful sounds of the two orchestral harps and the powerful pipe organ.

Gabriella George

I loved visiting the Sydney Opera House! The world’s largest pipe organ was amazing, I didn't expect it to be so enormous. I really enjoyed listening to the harp during the performance! Andrea Lam, the solo pianist, was very talented.

Erik Carreno

I really enjoyed the final piece Thus Spoke Zarathustra and the way it was performed. I especially liked the sound of the pipe organ and the solo piano. I also admired Simone Young and how well she guided the orchestra.

Katelyn Kilby

The excursion was a great day. I enjoyed the performances and the harmonic sound of the orchestra. Andrea Lam's piano performance was amazing and I enjoyed getting out of the classroom, but still being able to learn.

Justin Avery

The day was so enjoyable! The Sydney Symphony Orchestra was absolutely exquisite and definitely a performance I would love to see again. The weather was perfect, which made the experience even better. We also learned about how the Opera House was built and the people who work there. Overall, it was a truly great day

Laura Glennie

I had a really good time. The tour that we had around the Opera House was extensive and I learnt a lot about the construction and inner workings of the establishment. The Sydney Symphonic Orchestra was masterful, all the instruments flowed together to make beautiful sounds. They were dutifully led by the conductor Simone Young. Overall the trip was amazing and we all had a really fun time, hanging out and listening to the Sydney Symphony Orchestra together.

Alicia McDivitt

Our visit to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra was an extraordinary experience. The Sydney Opera House Tour and our enthusiastic leader ‘Peter’ was fascinating, and Richard Strauss’ work conducted by Simone Young was breathtaking. As a piano player, my highlight was Andrea Lam’s inspiring performance, which motivates me to keep improving. Thank you to 9MUSA for such an inclusive and fun day, and to our teachers for making it all possible—we are truly grateful.