Surf Coast rockers learn through pandemic

Music has proven its ability to transcend all barriers through a new program designed for secondary school students living on the Surf Coast.

Torquay musician and Surf Coast Secondary College music teacher Rach Brennan of local band Rach Brennan & The Pines has been busy working alongside the Surf Coast Shire council’s youth team to deliver a virtual songwriting program via Zoom.

The workshop has been dubbed the “FReeZA Isolation Album” and will see participants join forces to create and record an album’s worth of original songs.

Ms Brennan said working with young people had inspired her to innovate the way she imparts her knowledge of songwriting.

“It’s definitely different on Zoom – you can’t just hand over the guitar and jam it out. I’m learning a lot about remote learning every time we do it but everyone is really patient,” she said.

“We have been working on lyrics and will be diving into chords, production, recording and more industry-based topics over the next few weeks.

“I am hoping that on top of the CD, they can explore some new ways to approach songwriting but most importantly further develop confidence in themselves as artists and trust their artistic instincts.”

Lorne P-12 College student Mary-Lou Hylands, who plays in some school bands as well as Sweethearts in Geelong, was one of the first students to take part in the program. She said learning from experienced songwriters had taught her new techniques.

“We do activities that involve trying to write songs and improving on how we can write songs.

“The people we work with are experienced songwriters so we’re free to ask questions whenever we like, which can be very helpful.

“I’m excited to be part of this Surf Coast project, to be able to write songs with other people and to make something with them.”

When state government restrictions allow, the group will record the songs and mix an album that will be handed out at a live performance.

For regular updates on the shire’s youth team’s programs and services, follow @SurfCoastYouth on Facebook.