Students strike a chord

A celebration of musical talent filled the Cyril Tyler Auditorium at Perth Modern School as 430 public school students came together for the Opus 2026 performance.

Presented by Instrumental Music School Services (IMSS), the Department of Education's premier instrumental music showcase brought together performers from Rossmoyne Senior High School, Fremantle College, Mount Lawley Senior High School, John Curtin College of the Arts, Woodvale Secondary College and Bob Hawke College. 

Students from Deanmore Primary School, Karrinyup Primary School, Lake Gwelup Primary School and Mt Claremont Primary School also performed as part of the Big Band Strawberry Jam ensemble. 

Featuring orchestral, jazz, contemporary and large ensemble performances, the concert highlighted the talent, dedication and creativity of young musicians from our public schools. 

Audiences were also treated to performances by the Wilson Primary School clarinet ensemble in the foyer before the concert, the Perth Modern School string quartet at the VIP function, and interval performances by the Perth Modern School senior contemporary ensemble and the John Curtin College of the Arts junior string quartet. 

Principal of IMSS, Kevin Fraser, said Opus remains one of the most significant events on the public school music calendar. 

“Opus is our showcase event,” he said. 

“It brings together some of the very best performances from across the state and demonstrates the incredible breadth of music-making in our public schools. 

“It really is a celebration of what can be achieved through music education.” 

Among the performers was Year 11 Woodvale Secondary College student Fatima, who plays tenor saxophone in her school's jazz band. 

“I find music challenging in a good way,” she said. 

“It was something I never thought I’d be good at, but the support at school and from my teachers has been amazing. 

“Most of my friends have come through music and they've encouraged me to try new instruments and keep improving.” 

Fellow Year 11 student Shona, from Woodvale Secondary College, performed in the jazz band and has been involved in the instrumental music program since Year 5. 

A flutist and pianist, Shona said music had become an important part of her life. 

“Being part of the program for so long has taught me commitment and given me opportunities I wouldn't have had otherwise,” she said. 

“It's not just about learning an instrument. It's about the people you meet, the friendships you build and the teachers who support you along the way. 

“For anyone thinking about taking up music, I'd definitely say do it.” 

The performance also highlighted the impact of IMSS, which provides instrumental tuition to thousands of students across the state, helping young musicians develop their skills and confidence. 

IMSS supports around 20,000 students through 340 teachers in more than 500 partner schools across Western Australia. 

Mr Fraser said the concert highlighted the wide range of opportunities available to young musicians. 

“Music education gives students opportunities to challenge themselves, build confidence and perform as part of a team,” he said. 

“The standard of performances continues to be exceptional, and we are incredibly proud of what students and teachers achieve.” 

You can read more about instrumental music programs on our website.