By Jessica Anstice
They won’t be able to come together to march in an Anzac parade, but Kooweerup Secondary College has discovered an alternative way to commemorate those who served at war.
Every year since 2001, students and teachers from Kooweerup Secondary College march in the Melbourne parade, but Anzac Day will look very different this year, with Australians in coronavirus isolation.
Musically talented students, staff and past students in isolation from all over the world, including Sydney, Canberra, Paris and Melbourne, took part in a virtual performance which was posted to the school’s YouTube channel.
Marking the 75th anniversary of the end of World War 2, the tribute video showcases 30 musicians, each performing a part in their own homes.
“It all started a month ago when some former students were in isolation and sharing music videos on Facebook,” Kooweerup Secondary College musical director Claudia Barker said.
“In isolation, with the only instrument at hand – a plastic trumpet, (ex student) James recorded an instructional video which was sent out with the march music.
“The rhythms and tempo provided a challenge for the younger students so it also proved to be an engaging exercise for practice in isolation.”
Past students included Daniel Barker in Paris, class of ’98, Bronwen, class of ’91, and Australian netballler Janine Ilitch, class of ’89.
Reflecting on past Anzac Day ceremonies, Ms Barker said the Kooweerup Secondary College band often marched twice as there were never enough bands.
“We have made friends with many different organisations over the years,” she said.
“We have stopped the traffic when we march through the streets of Fromelles on the Western Front.
“On our recent trip to Singapore our students placed flowers and crosses on Australian graves at Kranji cemetery. Some students have walked the Kokoda track and the 39th Battalion refers to us as ‘their’ band.”
Ms Barker said the music helps them to remember and to honour the Anzacs.
“Families of veterans and indeed participants have been moved to tears,” she added.
“The ripple of pride in our school has spread beyond the local community.”
Click here to watch their performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=46ezpi-_bqo&feature=emb_title
