Raising the Roof

Ms Trisha Matthias

Prep Music Master There is something about the Howard Smith Cup that ignites passion in the Prep boys. This is the ultimate goal in our Interhouse competition which embraces sport and culture. House Music is one of the highlights of this and includes all boys from Years 3 to 6 working together to present two songs in front of our adjudicators and audience. In 2020, we welcomed Ms Jo Inglis and Mrs Rachael Fennell to judge this highlight in our school calendar.

The competition was presented with a difference in this COVID-19 year. As there were strict guidelines with regards to singing, the competition was held across two venues with a live feed for the Houses to be able to hear the performing choir which was in the tiered Pearce Theatre, appropriately distanced. With careful planning, the excitement of the event was not lost. There was colour, House spirit, fabulous singing and the outstanding effort of each of the Housemasters to bring together a performance that embraced the hard work that their boys had put in for this day.

Now in its 43rd year, the Tabrett Prize for House Music is awarded to the winner of the competition. Each House is required to sing a set song, which is chosen by the Music staff, and then a free choice song which reflects the themes of Bounce Back. Bounce Back is our preventative whole-school social and emotional learning curriculum program which promotes positive mental health, wellbeing and resilience for students and teachers.

In 2020 the set song for each House was the uplifting and positive song by Uncle Kracker, “Smile”. Each House put their own ideas into this song so that their performance would stand out to the adjudicators.

This was a close competition with the adjudicators asking could they award a tie. With no as the answer, and further deliberation, the following places were announced.

After what was a wonderful afternoon of entertainment, the adjudicators announced the following: First Place Dixon House singing “This is Me” directed by Mr Mark Hoppe

Second Place Shepherd House singing “We are the World” directed by Mr Corey Tones

Third Place Musgrave House singing “Keep Your Head Up” directed by Mr Josh Beecher

Fourth Place Mitre House singing “Don’t Give Up On Me” directed by Mr Joseph Fumar

Congratulations to Mr Hoppe and The Dixon Dragons on winning in 2020. Well done to all boys and the Housemasters for working with the boys to make this such a successful and memorable competition. We look forward to the House Music Competition this year to see who takes out the title!