Skunkworks Community presents the inaugural Schoolies Music Camp this February

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Benjamin NortheyMusic has always been a powerful form of expression, a means of communication that transcends boundaries, cultures, and generations. In Australia, music education has long been an integral part of the school curriculum, nurturing young talents and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

“Music education is an essential part of a well-rounded education and a vital component of a thriving society,” said Phillipa Edwards OAM, Director Skunkworks Community.”

“By investing in music education, we can ensure that future generations have access to the transformative power of music and the myriad benefits it offers.”

However, a concerning trend has emerged in recent years – school leavers in Australia are increasingly finding themselves without access to music experiences after leaving school.

To counter this, Skunkworks Community presents the Schoolies Music Camp – a new music camp experience open to all graduating Year 12’s.

Taking place at the Hawthorn Arts Centre (Hawthorn Town Hall), this non-residential music camp is tailored specifically for 2023 year 12 school leavers although others are also welcome.

If you have learnt an instrument during secondary school then this is the music camp for you. Whether you are going on to further study in music or a different field or are beginning your work career, if you have a passion for music then this is the opportunity for you.

Continue your musical life and come together to play under industry leading musical directors and learn more about the vibrant community music sector that is available to you. Guest Clinicians include:

Benjamin Northey – Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Leonard Weiss – Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Ross Irwin – The Cat Empire
Marten Visser – CHIME Choir
Associate Professor Don Immel – Melbourne Conservatorium of Music
Staff of the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music

Yamaha Music Australia believes music education doesn’t stop after school, and recognises not all school-leavers may have the means to pay the registration fee.

Yamaha Music Australia (YMA) will award a maximum of five Attendance Bursaries, chosen by a committee of representatives from YMA and the organising body Skunkworks.


The Schoolies Music Camp takes place at the Hawthorn Arts Centre from 13 – 17 February 2024. For more information and to register, visit: www.skunkworkscommunity.com for details.

Image: Benjamin Northey – courtesy of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra