As a music industry practitioner and TV composer, School Choir Music arranger Justin McCoy conducts lectures and performances for groups of secondary students.
These events are designed to give students some insight into the different areas of career and employment opportunities available to young people with a passion for music. They are also useful in inspiring students who may be considering taking music as an elective.
Topics include composition, music for film and TV, arranging, live performance, recording etc.
For example, a presentation could include the showing of Youtube clips comparing a version of Khachaturian's Sabre Dance performed by a symphony orchestra, with this version of the same piece arranged by Justin for the 5 piece rock band Hat Trick, and performed live on the 9 Network Ray Martin Midday Show in the 1980s.
A school can request that specific topics be covered to tie in with curriculum class work, eg, Australian composition, film and TV music, rock music, popular music of the 20th century and so on, and additional musicians can be brought in to reinforce a particular aspect of the curriculum which is being studied.
Justin's years of experience as a performer enable him to comfortably engage the students, with music examples played live on acoustic guitar, and by encouraging students to relax and join in singing and playing.
Successful presentations have been conducted at Sydney schools including McDonald College of Performing Arts North Strathfield, Galston High, North Sydney Girls' High, Casimir College Marrickville.
"I invited Justin to The McDonald College of Performing Arts as a guest speaker, to talk about his experience in the music industry and to give the students some insight on composition and arranging.
Justin was loved by our students and inspirational throughout his presentation. Weeks after his speech, I still hear students recalling his advice with enthusiasm".
Marco Susino, Head of Music, The McDonald College of Performing Arts Sydney Australia, International Music Examiner Rockschool, UK
"Justin presented a most successful workshop of performance , discussion and information. His concert, showcasing the guitar, was a hit with the elective music students. What a performer!
He has a thorough knowledge of the syllabus and was able to engage amd enthuse the students as he analysed the musical concepts.
Great learning, wonderful entertainment!"
Mary O'Mahony, Casimir Catholic College Marrickville
"Justin and Mary came to our school and conducted an amazing Irish Music workshop with all of year 7. They performed a wide range of Irish music, from pub hits to traditional instrumental tunes. They carefully tailored their show to suit the content that the students had been learning in class so that it was both entertaining and educational. The musicians were absolutely inspiring to watch and managed to engage the entire year group for almost 2 hours, incorporating group singing and Irish dance routines. The show ended with student involvement on fiddles, guitars and percussion creating a fabulous Irish ensemble. What a hit!"
Bridie O'Mahony, Choir director, North Sydney Girls' High School
Contact Justin via the details on this site to discuss a session at your school.
Academic qualifications and professional affiliations
