2023 graduate, Holly Harrison was awarded the prestigious Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) Owen Fisenden Award for flute this year. The prize is awarded to the top student who must achieve A+ in grades 5 or 6 in Western Australia.

Holly’s passion for music is apparent in the many performances she involves herself in at School and in the wider community. Her talents were on display at the 2023 Bunbury Eisteddfod Gala Concert, where she was invited to perform after winning the Senior Piano Scholarship.

“While I have always generally loved music, I still had the usual ups and downs with lessons and practice. I think I was about 13 years old when I decided music was what wanted to do as a career. I became involved in more and more ensembles, bands, and productions and my love of music has continued to grow,” said Holly.

Starting with the piano at the age of four, Holly has expanded her musical range to include flute, saxophone and the oboe. While she plays the saxophone and oboe for fun, Holly completed grade 7 in the Australian and New Zealand Cultural Arts (ANZCA) Musical Examinations for flute and grade 8 in piano and is currently working towards her ANZCA Performance Diploma in Modern Pianoforte.

“I love all [of those instruments] for different reasons however piano is generally my go-to instrument when I just need to forget about the world, and often the study I am meant to be doing!” said Holly.

“It is a great way to relax as well as meet likeminded people. I would not be who I am today without music as it has taught me to persevere, how to be confident and work well under pressure. Music has led to so many amazing opportunities and it is very exciting to able to do what I love so much as a career,” she continued.

Holly has been an active member of the Music Department since she joined the School years ago, and was one of this year’s Music Captains.

“The Music Department at Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School is the main reason I came to the School. There is a band or ensemble for everyone. There are always great opportunities like Music Camp to start the year off well, countless performances throughout the year for parents, at formal dinners, even for cruise ships and my favourite event of the year, Music Tour! The memories I made on all five Music Tours I was lucky enough to go on, will stay with me forever,” said Holly.

In recognition of her contribution to the School’s Music program, Holly was the recipient of the Luke Di Bona award, presented to a senior music student, who through their own musical endeavours has encouraged and supported others. She aims to continue her musical journey following graduation.

“Hopefully I will be at WAAPA next year! I want to do a Bachelor of Music in Contemporary Piano Performance,” concluded Holly.