CQCM Mackay Bachelor of Music Theatre

I have read many articles bad mouthing CQCM's Bachelor of Music Theatre, or as it's now known, Bachelor of Theatre (Specialisation) Music Theatre, Drama, Dance. I would like to let prospective students know that CQCM has an excellent facility, course structure and lecturers. Considerations need to be made that the current building (which is a completely Conservatorium run professional theatre, with it's own fly tower, etc) was only finished around 2002, so there were a few years of getting used to that. And now that the course has changed to a Bachelor of Theatre with specialisations in Music Theatre, Drama and Dance, we need to give the university and new students time to find their feet in this new set up. Every institution will have it's bad points, and having studied at the Conservatorium of Music in Brisbane, while it is a good facility, I did not like it at all, but don't let that put anyone off doing what they feel they need to. Regarding your lack of formal dance tuition, I was the same. I was worried that, auditioning at 23, I was too old and that I only had school production and amateur theatre experience. The MT specialisation teaches you from basics - how to dance, sing, act, read music etc, and the new dance and drama specialities focus more on those specific disciplines. We also have access to some of the best professionals today, in my time alone we have had guest directors such as Drew Anthony, Kim Hardwick, Judith Roberts, Chloe Dallimore, Chris Horsey and John Wregg. Just because we are out woop woop in Mackay doesn't mean we are a less talented group of students. I feel I get better opportunities here than I would at a massively well known institution such as WAAPA and NIDA. Also, you don't just learn how to perform, you learn about all the ins and outs of backstage, from lighting and sound, to costume design and stage management. I'm so proud to be on my way to becoming a performer who udnerstands and truly appreciates every role of a production, both on stage and off. I hope we get more auditions next year, as unfortunately not a lot of people know about us. Come audition and make up your own opinions about the course, I was originally advised against it, but it's been the best decision I've made.

Yes I agree totally with the above being a former student of CQCM I have gone from strength to strength after graduating and am now Artistic Director of a small theatre company. Training in all areas of theatre from the beginning is essential. It's not so much the institution but how you apply yourself to the experience.

I studied there and thought that the tuition, course and overall experience was a let down. It did not prepare me for the industry and it seemed as though they would let anybody in. Half of the people on the jazz course could not read music and there seemed to be no minimum requirement for entry. Go to a serious institute instead - I found it a total waste of money.

I would like to respond to some of the negative comments by anonymous (how convenient!!) I am a successful graduate from CQCM and studied both Music Theatre and in my final year I studied Jazz. The tuition for the jazz course when I went was spectacular. We had leading national and international guests, and as an invested member of the alumni I find the negative comments re CQCM a little saddening and somewhat bitter. I am aware that after I graduated, the Jazz students had some amazing people visit, one in particular that stands out is Kristin Berardi, considered to be an international leader in jazz voice and composition. If you failed to take from this wonderfully kind and unbelievably gifted musician any lessons then you have missed out on a true gift. Reading music is not always a pre-req for Music and performance. It sure as hell helps, however I am aware of numerous professional musicians who were unable to read at the level you seem to, however they have gone on to spectacular success due to their ability to perform and shine, natural musicians with perfect pitch and ability to interpret. Reading music is important I agree, however this can be taught. Natural ability to interpret and make songs your own rather than playing every crotchet etc is a skill unable to be taught. Yes the CQCM is in Mackay, and as someone who had moved there prior to attending (completed my last 3 years of school) it does take a little to get used to. However you are not in Mackay to party etc, you are there to learn, study and embrace what is taught. It is a fantastic place for young performers and is a very nurturing environment. Believe me, the facilities are state of the art. When I attended we were in rented premises, the theatre was a room that sat about 100 if you were lucky and there were no sound proof rooms to practice etc. Trust me the new premises are second to none! Am extremely envious of anyone who graduated 2002 onwards! Many of the grads have gone onto bigger and better things and furthered their professional music careers. Also re no minimum req for entry. I question as to whether this is sour grapes again? Do you feel you were overlooked for opportunity, or deemed yourself better than others? Am not attacking you, however you're comments are extremely damaging not only to the Con but more importantly to the Graduates who are fighting to carve out a niche for themselves in a highly competitive profession. There is a pre-req for entry. An AUDITION!!! And as we all know this is subjective. But it is important to have people with different abilities to compliment each other, to develop and nurture, to become better. This is a training facility not a camp for professional muso's. However the opportunities if embraced, are next to none and the industry contacts made I still have today. Having studied at other Music facilities, I cannot disagree more with negative comments saying CQCM does not compare. Not only are there opportunities galore to work with amazing pro's, but the smaller setting of classes and more one on one time with lecturer's and professional guest musicians, is something I will cherish forever. Lecturer's are always willing to give you more time, to help out and get you on the right path. The family away from home at the Con is something offered NOWHERE else, trust me. Life is what you make it, and sadly some people would like to blame their lack of professional opportunity on the education facility, rather than perhaps their negative attitude.