08 June 2026
Lively Lunch Gigs at Kelmscott Senior High School are getting rave reviews from student performers and audience members.
Specialist Music Program students practice performing to a crowd during the lively Lunch Gigs.
The 20-minute lunchtime concerts were launched in 2023 as a fun way for Approved Specialist Music Program students to gain valuable performance experience.
The gigs continue to grow in popularity with students from all learning areas now taking to the outdoor stage in the canteen area.
“These events allow students and staff to enjoy live music and performances by talented students during their lunch break,” said Miriam Meakin, the school’s specialist music teacher.
“It's a great way to spend a lunchtime in the sun, listening to tunes and supporting the school's talented performers.”
“(The gigs) create a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere on campus and give students a chance to showcase their musical talents.
“(They are) something to look forward to, a positive lunchtime treat and a break from classroom time at school.
“Such events often contribute to the overall sense of community and school spirit, making the school experience more enjoyable and engaging for everyone involved.”
The gigs are a schoolwide effort. The sound engineers are Certificate III students who get credit towards their qualification by setting up and mixing the amplification.
The student concerts have been a massive hit!
An art and music student designed the Lunch Gig banner that is displayed at each session, while others create posters to advertise upcoming performances.
Specialist music teachers and school media and marketing staff take photos and videos, which are uploaded to the Kelmscott Senior High School Facebook page and website.
Students in the audience contribute to the positive vibes, too. When the crowd cheers and sings along, the performers feel supported and safe. That encouragement helps them build confidence and hone their stagecraft.
Teachers can’t resist the lure of performing, either, with some occasionally taking to the stage alongside students.
“A staff band, Krankenhaus, has also evolved,” said Ms Meakin.
“We sometimes make a guest appearance at special events, much to the amusement of students.”
Lunch Gigs are performed up to four times per term, especially in warmer months. They have been incorporated into Harmony Day, Market Day and other special school calendar events.
Each gig includes three to five acts and the positive atmosphere has encouraged rock bands, solo singers, classical and contemporary instrumentalists, cultural acts and even dancers to sign up.
Ms Meakin said there had been many standout performances over the years.
“Caitlin Van Der Weld, a Year 12 in 2023, was particularly memorable, playing her original composition using guitar and voice. She also sang at the graduation presentation that year,” she said.
“Taiko Drumming has become a loud and booming part of Lunch Gigs for General Music students, especially during Harmony Week.
“Students rallied behind Nehemiah, a guitarist, at our Lunch Gig in April, screaming out in support from the crowd. He performed Hound Dog with his Year 9 Band, a piece they had been working on in the classroom.”
And the specialist music students can’t get enough of the Lunch Gigs.
"They are very entertaining to watch. People come and show what they are good at and show what they enjoy doing," said Cody.
Ruby likes the gigs because “they teach students that they don't have to be afraid to go up and do what they like to do, and it's very fun and enjoyable."
Audrey sums it up perfectly.
"I like the gigs because there's always a good vibe to them, and everyone is always cheering everyone on,” she said.
“It's just fun and you get to go up and do what you want, and no one’s, like, booing anyone, and I think it's all good vibes."