James Morrison blows in for Geelong Summer Music Camp

January 23, 2020 BY James Taylor

James Morrison (left) rehearses with the GSMC Symphony Orchestra and conductor Edward Fairlie. Photos: JAMES TAYLOR

AUSTRALIAN jazz virtuoso James Morrison lent his talents last week to help the Geelong Summer Music Camp (GSMC) celebrate its 40th anniversary.

The 2020 camp saw 260 young musicians aged 10-21 years from across Victoria and as far away as New Zealand join together in bands, choirs and string orchestras.

James Morrison reacts to applause after a performance of “A Trumpeter’s Lullaby”.

The week-long program was a day camp catering for student musicians and offering a broad range of music and elective activities.

The GSMC 40th celebration saw Morrison join the students and staff for rehearsals and performances with each group in Costa Hall on Friday last week.

A violinist keeps his eye on the conductor.

The camp is run by a committee of local music teachers, performers and supporters of community music.

GSMC musical director Fiona Gardner said the incredible long term success of the event was due to the enthusiastic committee, as well as the highly skilled and dedicated conductors and instrumental tutors who inspired the students to make great music.