At Cowra Public on Monday morning, the six Conservatorium students taught Infants Cossack dancing, how to stick out your tongue to exercise your mouth and how to conduct the chicken dance in an effort to shake the image of classical music and enthuse children about music.
Music teacher and tour supporter Maryanne Wright said the students reacted wonderfully.
“They loved it, loved it,” Mrs Wright said.
“They see and hear the instruments up close, listen to how it sounds, and learn how it works.”
For some, it was their first chance to see an Oboe, or Clarinet up close. And although they had seen a guitar before, hearing it played classically was a new experience.
The Conservatorium students are in the region as part of their 2009 Grand Western tour.
Annually, such tours from the Conservatorium are regular to the country and this week, the students will perform not only in Cowra but in Parkes, Bathurst, Molong, Orange and wind up in Canowindra on Saturday night.
Head of Ensemble Studies and touring with the students David Miller, AM, said his students enjoyed sharing their passion and love of music, no matter what the age group.
“We like showing them that music is enjoyable, its fun.”
Teaching ages from young adults to kindergarten was a challenge, he admitted, but one his young charges enjoyed.
“We change it for different ages and levels, but for some of these students, this is their future.”
“Once they have graduated, they may look at teaching music, like they are now.”
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