On Tuesday 22 August, the students of Centenary Heights SHS Li’l Ensom performed at the Creative Generation Choral Fanfare State Finals 2023 in Brisbane. Li’l Ensom is an auditioned SATB chamber choir consisting of students in years 8 – 12 who are also members of Bella and Basso Voices. These students are a very close-knit group who love singing together and relish the challenge of performing more complex arrangements of up to 6-parts and meaningful pieces that can deeply impact an audience. Members of Li’l Ensom rehearse for an hour and a half each week and are challenged to work as a team, singing with a developing level of autonomy as they perform unconducted.
The students performed a program of four pieces, one of which is a folk song arrangement composed by past student Harrison Young. The event was held at the Qld Conservatorium, Griffith University Concert Hall and was adjudicated by Jason Barry-Smith and Clare Finlayson. At the culmination of the evening, Centenary Heights SHS Li’l Ensom were awarded ‘Best Performance’ and winners of Choral Fanfare 2023. This is an historic outcome as we believe that Li’l Ensom is the first DDSW choir to ever win a Choral Fanfare State Final. The following words provided in the Written Adjudication highlight the exceptional quality of their performance:
“You are obviously a tightly knit team and your hard work is obvious. So wonderful to see young people taking the lead! An absolute thrill to watch such commitment from the young musicians. A stunning performance from all of you. Thank you for your work!” – Clare Finlayson
“The choice to perform unconducted is inspired, and showed the way that the young people connect to their phrasing through their bodies. Some really exceptional music making from all throughout a challenging program. What an absolute privilege to enjoy your beautifully crafted program. Thank you to each one of you.” – Jason Barry-Smith
Congratulations to the students of Centenary Heights SHS Li’l Ensom – we are so very proud of you all and your outstanding achievements!
