Orsen Bailey Class of 2025 Shines
Last week, our Year 12 Music students had the incredible opportunity to travel to the iconic Sydney Opera House to attend Encore , the HSC Music Students of Excellence in Performance event. This prestigious concert celebrates the achievements of some of the most talented music students across the state, showcasing performances that are not only technically impressive but also deeply expressive. For our students, this was more than just a concert—it was an inspiring glimpse into what dedication, practice, and passion can achieve in the world of music.
The event was made even more memorable by the remarkable performance of Orsen Bailey (Year 12, 2025), who had the honour of closing the show. Orsen delivered a scintillating rendition of “Beat It” arranged for solo guitar, a performance that was both electrifying and technically precise. Every note he played resonated with confidence and musicality, capturing the audience’s attention from the first chord to the final flourish. Supporting Orsen was Adrian Biankin (Year 12, 2025) on drums, whose dynamic rhythms provided the perfect foundation, and our very own Mr Paul Toole on bass guitar, whose experience and musicality added depth and richness to the performance. Together, this trio created a vibrant and captivating rendition that truly exemplified the spirit of collaboration and excellence.
Attending the concert also allowed our students to experience performances by other HSC students from across New South Wales, each bringing their own style, personality, and skill to the stage. For our Year 12s, it was not only a chance to witness high-level performance but also an opportunity to reflect on their own musical journey, gain inspiration, and see firsthand what can be achieved through dedication, creativity, and practice.
The atmosphere in the Sydney Opera House was electric, with the audience fully engaged and appreciative of the talent on display. Moments like these are incredibly special—they remind us of the power of music to connect, inspire, and celebrate human achievement. For our school, seeing one of our own students, Orsen Bailey, perform at such a high-profile event filled us with immense pride. His performance was a testament to his hard work, talent, and commitment, and it was truly inspiring to watch him shine on such a prestigious stage.
Congratulations to Orsen on this outstanding achievement. We are extremely proud of him and grateful for the dedication of all our music staff, whose guidance and support help students reach these heights. Experiences like Encore not only celebrate excellence but also encourage all our students to aim high, work hard, and pursue their passion for music with confidence. This event will surely remain a highlight of the year and a lasting inspiration for our aspiring musicians.
