NMIT Performing Arts Showcase Concert in Preston
28 August 2007
For Australian music icon, Russell Morris, his musical education at secondary school was not an enjoyable occasion. Music wasn't a priority on the curriculum in that era of the 60s, and Russell had to put up with music such as singing along to “Who Killed Cock Robin?' in the classroom.
But with a passion for rock n'roll, Russell went on to play with bands just for 'fun', believing it would all be over by the time he was 25. Indeed, he never thought about a career in music and instead, turned his formal education into one focused on accounting and economics.
Decades later, the star of hit songs such as The Real Thing which reached Australia's number one spot in June, 1969, and later in America, is a strong believer in a formal education for aspiring, young musicians to enhance their knowledge and skills about the world of music.
Now, Russell will take to the stage along with music students at Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE (NMIT) as part of the NMIT Performing Arts Showcase Concert at the Darebin Arts & Entertainment Centre in Preston on Wednesday night 12 September between 8-10pm.
Russell will perform for about 20 minutes with a four-song set with a band, followed by The Real Thing with the NMIT Big Band.
He said he was looking forward to meeting young musicians with new ideas in what will be 'a fun experience' for him.
More than 100 NMIT performing arts students will be involved in the production, marketing and Concert performance which has Australian contemporary music as its focus, with 'a touch' of world music such as a Balinese Gamelan Student Ensemble performance included by Australian Popular Music bachelor degree students.
There is a choir, jazz band and Big Band performance as well, with students playing alongside teachers who are also professional musicians.
The Concert has both an educational and entertaining focus as it offers students across the performing arts area professional experience to showcase their musical creativity and talents and apply their knowledge and skills before a large audience.
As a self-taught musician, Russell said there was little opportunity for him to undertake formal studies in music when he was younger, but that a music education was very important to help make one a much better musician.
Despite countless performances, Russell admitted he still gets nervous, but hopes the rehearsals for the NMIT Showcase will ease those feelings.
Tickets are $15 and bookings can be made Tel: 8470-8282
