A Faith First at State Honours

Ciarna has made history as the first Faith DE student to participate in the prestigious State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP) for Vocal Performance at Griffith Conservatorium. Selected to represent our school, she joined talented young musicians from across Queensland in an intensive program focused on learning and performing challenging choral repertoire. Through her dedication, perseverance, and passion for music, Ciarna grew in confidence as a vocalist and was encouraged to continue using her God-given gifts to serve and glorify Him. We congratulate Ciarna on this outstanding achievement and thank her for representing Faith with excellence.

My SHEP Experience

In Term 2, I had the opportunity to attend the State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP) for Vocal Performance at Griffith Conservatorium in Brisbane. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be chosen to represent Faith DE and appreciate the encouragement and support of my teachers throughout this experience. It was a wonderful opportunity to be challenged in an area I’m passionate about while learning alongside other talented students from across Queensland.

Over two-and-a-half days, I worked with other high school students as part of a vocal choir, learning around seven new pieces of music. Some of the songs were in other languages, and according to our conductor, some of the repertoire was among the most challenging choir music to master. Learning this music in such a short amount of time was demanding, but performing it in the final concert was a rewarding and confidence-building experience.

This experience has encouraged me to continue developing the gifts God has given me with greater confidence and purpose, recognising that music is one way I can serve and glorify Him. I gained valuable skills in performing challenging repertoire, growing in confidence as a vocalist, and collaborating with others in a choir setting.

I highly recommend this program to anyone who plays an instrument or enjoys singing. Thank you to Faith DE for investing in students and providing opportunities like this. I am truly grateful to have been part of this experience and hope to have the opportunity to participate again next year.

- By Ciarna