Introducing the new Director of Music

Introducing our new Director of Music

Welcome Jan Blazejczak

The year certainly got off to a flying start for Trinity’s new Director of Music, Jan Blazejczak, with intensive rehearsals for the much-treasured House Performing Arts Festival beginning almost immediately. He admits that nothing could have prepared him for this complex, multi-faceted event, but he greatly enjoyed the cross-pollination and collaboration between Music, Drama and the Houses.

In an interview he did for the weekly student newsletter 'Roxeth', Jan addressed the most common question on his students’ lips: ‘Where does your name come from?’ His response was ‘…from the country of the best chocolates and the No 1 ranked soccer team in the world (well, this can be contested) – Belgium.’ Jan began his career in Belgium, teaching in Bruges after university. His interest in Australia had been piqued, however, by a Rotary exchange to Melbourne in 1990. He had loved this experience and determined to return. The opportunity arose as a result of his thesis choice for his Masters studies: Music education in Victoria! Melbourne University and the VCA beckoned; then, after teaching at schools around Victoria, Jan arrived at Trinity. This year, he replaced Michelle Stanic who retired after 35 years at Trinity.

During his first six months, in addition to the House Performing Arts Festival, Jan experienced the Strings Concert, Trinity Jazz, the more intimate Scholars Concert and also the Gala Concert, which was held at the Melbourne Recital Centre in May. He has greatly appreciated the welcome he has received and reveals that meeting the students and the wonderfully supportive music and administrative staff has been a highlight.

Jan relishes a new challenge and, having taught at all-girls’ and co-educational schools, he was keen to work in an all-boys’ environment. He was aware of Trinity’s reputation and the importance of music in the curriculum and co-curriculum. As a child, he gravitated to music; he was self-motivated and learnt piano. His parents, while not particularly musical, were very supportive of his interest and talent. For Jan, it is key that the Music School continues to provide a supportive environment, with interesting programs and nurturing, talented teachers to encourage the talent and creativity of Trinity’s students.

Jan Blazejczak conducting the orchestra at the Gala Concert