"AT THE BELL TOWER" - A FLINDERS PODCAST
Matthew Flinders Anglican College has a new podcast with College Principal Michelle Carroll on the mic!
“At the Bell Tower” aims to guide parents along the schooling journey in healthy, balanced and compassionate ways! Join Michelle to dive into captivating conversations with some of our expert educators at Flinders and thought leaders from diverse industries.
We'd love to you tune into Episode 5: The Magic of Music with John Thomas (JT)
To visit our Track list with all episodes, visit here.
TITLE
The Magic of Music With John Thomas
EPISODE SUMMARY
Principal Michelle Carroll enjoys a conversation with Mr John Thomas, aka JT, where they take a trip down memory lane to understand the growth and phenomenal success of our Flinders Music Program. JT retires in December after more than 30 years of dedicated service at Matthew Flinders Anglican College.
As the Co-ordinator of Band, Brass and Woodwind and the conductor of our Wind Symphony, JT has played a pivotal role in shaping the Flinders Band Program, guiding it from its early stages to the flourishing ensembles within the Band Program today.
Through JT’s mentorship and conducting, many of the ensembles have proudly represented the College at local, interstate, national and international levels, including performing at the Sydney Opera House in 2023.
Michelle and JT discuss the many life skills that music teaches, such as the importance of consistency, teamwork and a strong work ethic to success and enjoyment.
IN THIS EPISODE
[1:35] JT shares his career journey after finishing school in Year 10. As a 15-year-old, JT had to decide between three options: a music scholarship to the Queensland Conservatorium in Brisbane, a surfing sponsorship, and a builder trade apprenticeship. Find out which path he chose first, and the rewarding opportunities he’s embraced throughout his career.
[3:20] What did the Flinders Music Program look like more than 30 years ago when JT began teaching at the College?
[5:00] JT explains how teachers can inspire students to ‘switch on’ to their music practice.
[7:15] What makes a great musician? JT explains the elements and character a young musician requires to become more adept.
[10:20] What is special about the Flinders Music Program? JT shares some of his proudest moments as a teacher.
[13:00] What are the benefits of picking up an instrument from a young age and as a teenager?
[14:55] JT reflects on how mentors and teachers have inspired him over the years, and why it’s important to be open to feedback.
[15:30] JT recognises his wife, Mrs Jenny Thomas, for her vast work, passion and contribution to music at Flinders. Jenny has been the Accompanist and the Music Program Archivist at Flinders over the past 30 years, and will retire in December 2024 alongside JT.
[16:50] JT reflects on highlights of the Flinders Music Program over more than 30 years, including some of the international tours.
PODCAST FEATURE SEGMENTS
The Flinders Fast Five [20:50]
With Principal Michelle Carroll, asks our music students: What’s the best advice you’ve received from JT?
Students’ voices featured:
Naish
Billie
Daniel
Maddie
Lorenzo
A Flinders Fact [22:33]
With Gerry Price, Flinders staff member for more than 33 years and Honorary Life Member of the Old Flinderians’ Association.
Learn a College fact from our history since foundation in 1990 and have a go at guessing the tricky question Mr Price poses. If you know the answer, comment on our Facebook or Instagram pages, and the first correct answer receives a coffee from our Flinders Quarterdeck Cafe.
LEARN MORE
- Want to join upcoming events at Flinders? Check out our Events at Flinders
- Follow Flinders on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
- Visit our Flinders Website News- Listen to more podcast episodes on Soundcloud
