Every year, The Scots College awards a number of Academic and Music Scholarships. It is our aim to help students who, without our support, might not be able to avail themselves of the opportunities offered.
Year 12 student, William Chang, has been a Music Scholarship recipient during his time at Scots. William shared some insights from his time as a Scots Music student and scholarship recipient.
“I have been very fortunate to have been involved in Scots Music since the day I started at Scots. From the Year 2 Strings Program and Year 4 Band Program, even learning to play the bagpipes in Years 5 and 6, Scots opens the door for all boys to explore Music and provides plenty of opportunities should they wish to pursue their interests in their chosen instrument and field. The various ensembles also enable boys to learn to collaborate with public performances, helping to build confidence and character.
Through Scots Music, I have also built strong and everlasting friendships with my teachers and peers.
Throughout my 14 years at Scots, I was given plenty of opportunities to perform for my peers, as well as for prospective parents and carers at Information Mornings and also distinguished guests invited to College functions. A highlight for me was performing at the Sydney Opera House.
Other highlights include performing in the Chamber Strings and Senior School Choir at Sydney Eisteddfods. It was eye-opening to see other schools’ performances as well.
I have been attending the annual Music camps since Year 4. These camps give Scots musicians the opportunity to immerse themselves in Music away from the College environment and to connect with Senior and Junior musicians of all genres. At these camps, camaraderie is built through mentorship between Senior and Junior musicians. Collaboration during these camps also builds confidence amongst all the boys.
A highlight for all participating musicians is the biannual Scotland Tour, when a selection of boys travel to the University of St Andrews, immersing themselves in the study of Music and learning from Music academics and professional musicians. In 2019, I was very fortunate to have this opportunity to travel with Mr Tester, Ms Cheng, Mr Vickers and a few of my mates. We were able to travel around Scotland, sightseeing, attending concerts and lectures. We also had the opportunity to perform at the University of St Andrews.
Being a Scots Music scholar brings to bear the responsibility of being a Senior musician, and in my case being the Concertmaster of the College Orchestra in my final school years. I also learnt to be a servant leader to my fellow musicians, mentoring younger musicians and encouraging them to excel in their respective fields.
The Music Scholarship allows me to undertake the Music 2 course as one of my HSC subjects, providing me with more performance opportunities and enabling musicians to delve deeper into the history and technicality of Music.”
Master in Charge of Music (10-12), Mr Eric Hutchinson, is proud of William’s contribution to the Scots Music program. “Through diligence, hard work and exemplary musicianship, William has set a fine example to The Scots College community of the qualities required of a Music scholar. Throughout his time at the College, he has participated in a wide range of musical Co-Curricular ensembles and has led the College Orchestra with a servant heart. William has made a valued contribution to the musical life of the College.”
For more information about The Scots College scholarships and bursaries, click here.
