08 January 2026
Perth primary school students are taking part in a program with West Australian Opera to develop their confidence and storytelling skills.
WAO SINGS, supported by the Feilman Foundation and the City of Swan, involves West Australian Opera delivering a comprehensive music education program to Years 5 and 6 students.
Malvern Springs Primary School took part in WAO SINGS.
The three-year pilot program launched last year and is running at three schools in the Ellenbrook area.
The program’s choral director, Dr Emma Jayakumar, visits the schools, teaching students music pieces from across a range of genres, including in languages such as Italian, French, German and Noongar.
The program aims to help children grow in confidence, self-efficacy and to develop a positive mindset.
It ends with a mass performance at the end of the school year to friends and family.
Dr Jayakumar worked with students to opera Mr McGee, based on the Pamela Allen book of the same name.
Alison Robeson, a music specialist teacher at Malvern Springs Primary School, one of the participating schools, said the program had a remarkable impact on students.
“Our students are singing with enthusiasm and expressing emotion through music in ways they never would have before,” she said.
“They’re confident, supportive of one another, and proud of what they’re achieving. The smiles on their faces say it all.”
Dr Jayakumar said her approach brings the traditionally adult world of opera into a relatable and joyful space for young audiences and performers alike.
“Opera is about storytelling through song, and when children connect to that emotionally, the results are extraordinary,” she said.
“They develop not only musical skills, but confidence, empathy and teamwork.”
For more information about WAO SINGS, visit the West Australian Opera website.