The journey to YALE

We were delighted to hear the news that HOLLY BROADBENT (Class of 2015) has been offered a full scholarship from Yale University to study the organ. Holly’s passion for music began in her early years at Penrhos and she went on to have many wonderful experiences during her time at the College. Holly hopes that by sharing her story she might inspire others to consider learning the organ – especially as the Penrhos Chapel was gifted a beautiful WRAGG Pipe Organ, by past Director of Music, Dudley Bastian.

When did you get involved in the music program at Penrhos?

I started at Penrhos College when I was in Year 1 and became part of the Suzuki Violin program under Jenny Cadd and Catherine Alexander. In Secondary School I was Music Captain and also took up the oboe and composition.

What are some of your favourite memories from your years at the College?

Some of my best memories come from my final years at Penrhos. While the workload increases as you approach Year 12, events such as the school production, Music Tour, Music Camp, and the school ball helped me form unforgettable memories and experiences.

Was there anyone in particular who had an impact on you?

The Director of Music at the time, Paul McCarthy, was incredibly influential in my path towards a career in music - I don’t think I’d be where I am now if I hadn’t had him as a teacher. Mr McCarthy not only helped me realise I had a talent for music but went above and beyond to organise opportunities and help me reach my full potential.

How did you get into playing the organ?

I played the piano from a young age and always had a great interest in the composer J.S.Bach, who was also an organist. After graduating from Penrhos, I immediately found a way to learn the organ and from the very minute I first played, I knew I’d found my instrument. I soon realised that there are very few female organists in the world, so I felt I was challenging the stereotypical image of an organist, which was exciting!

What did you do after you graduated from Penrhos?

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in music specialist studies at UWA before going on to receive a First-Class Honours degree in organ from WAAPA. Playing the organ has brought me many opportunities. Until recently I was organist at St George’s Cathedral and have performed at the Perth Concert Hall, toured as organist for the Australian Youth Orchestra and performed as a finalist at the Sydney International Organ Competition.

Are you still in touch with classmates?

I regularly catch-up with my group of Penrhos friends; the friends I made at school are friendships that I’ll have for a lifetime. We have certainly all changed a lot since school, but we all still cherish our catch-ups together.

How did your acceptance at Yale come about?

I auditioned at Yale University in February this year and was fortunate enough to be accepted on a full scholarship. I am really looking forward to working with one of the organ teachers at Yale, James O’Donnell, who was previously Master of Music at Westminster Abbey. During his tenure he headed the music for various Royal events such as the Queen’s funeral and William & Kate’s wedding.

What message would you like to share with our current and future students?

My advice would be to work hard and make the most out of every opportunity at Penrhos. When I started in Junior School, I had no idea about what I wanted to do but I tried my best in everything I did to see where that would lead me. While I certainly studied hard at school, I think it is also so important to take breaks and enjoy your time with your friends.