A Three-Day Immersive Workshop for Stage 6 Music Students
Australia’s Musical Canvas is a unique, syllabus-aligned education initiative designed to support senior secondary music students as they engage with the Core topic Australian Music of the Last 25 Years. This three-day workshop deepens students’ understanding of contemporary Australian music through practical composition, performance, and ensemble work, delivered by three of Australia’s leading music professionals: Vov Dylan, Dr Margaret Brandman, and John Martin.
The program is tailored for students undertaking Music 2 and Extension Music for the HSC. Students not preparing an Australian composition for the HSC may participate by selecting a suitable AMEB-listed Australian work. With a capped intake of 20 students per workshop, individual attention and meaningful feedback are prioritised.
Unlike traditional single-session workshops or incursions, Australia’s Musical Canvas is a multi-day academic and artistic intensive, structured to produce measurable learning outcomes in line with NESA expectations.
A complete HSC syllabus-aligned structure covering Outcomes H1–H12 and Extension Outcomes 1–6
Incorporation of AMEB-aligned repertoire and techniques
Real-time composition feedback from a published, syllabus-contributing composer
Performance masterclasses led by touring professional musicians
A fully realised ensemble rehearsal and public concert
Licensing, analysis resources, accompanist support, and all printed materials included
Open composition masterclass with Dr Margaret Brandman
Individual student draft work critiqued in a group setting
Score analysis of “Jucaro Rhumba d’Amor” (licensed)
Group activities supporting H3–H7, Extension 1–4
Development of skills in notation, expressive devices, and structural understanding
Requirements: Recently tuned grand piano, microphone/PA setup if hosted in school facilities
Solo and ensemble performance feedback with Vov Dylan and John Martin
Emphasis on stylistic interpretation, tone, and stagecraft
Peer observation to support critical listening and musicological discussion
Aligns with H1, H6, H10, Extension 2, 4, 6
Sectionals and full rehearsal of ensemble work (Jucaro Rhumba d’Amor)
Students introduce and perform Australian works publicly
Professional concert setting encourages artistic ownership and presentation
Supports H7, H10–12, Extension 5
Concert ticketing managed by our team. If an external venue is required, additional hire costs may apply.
Develops interpretive depth, creative confidence, and analytical thinking
Supports students preparing for HSC composition, performance, and viva voce
Suitable for both classroom and AMEB assessment preparation
Includes coverage of the six concepts of music: duration, pitch, tone colour, texture, structure, and expressive techniques
ARIA-charting artist and leading interpreter of Australian music. With over 15 albums released and nearly 50 world premieres to his name, Vov is a passionate educator and performer, experienced in public and private education sectors and at university level. Kismet: Vignettes for Violin and Piano was the highest-selling Australian classical album of 2022.
Internationally recognised for her compositions and music education resources, Dr Brandman brings expertise in composition, harmony, and pedagogy. Her published works appear in exam syllabuses around the world, and she has decades of experience leading composition workshops for young musicians.
Celebrated for his contribution to Australian music through recordings, performances, and education. A regular on ABC and the Wirripang label, John brings a wealth of experience in mentoring HSC candidates and interpreting Australian repertoire at the highest level.
Access to licensed Australian works and full analysis guides
Composition feedback and open forum workshops
Student-specific printed parts and rehearsal materials
Full concert production and promotional resources
Certificate of participation for student portfolios
Optional PD recognition for attending staff
All musical, academic, and performance content aligned to HSC and AMEB
To express interest / inquire about fees / confirm your school’s participation, contact:
info@vovdylan.com or call 0412 670 187
Upon confirmation, your school will receive:
We look forward to helping your students discover, explore, and perform the music of Australia’s composers.
Australia’s Musical Canvas – where learning meets performance.