This week, 22 high school students from the Mackay region are taking part in Jammin' a program at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) that gives school kids a chance to observe and participate in a range of classes as though they were professional music students at CQCM.

Running through until Friday, the students will have a chance to participate in workshops, academic lectures and rehearsals -  much of what a regular CQCM student can expect in studying any of the 3 music courses available at the Conservatorium.

Jammin' is the brain child of Derrin Kerr, lecturer in Jazz at the CQCM.  Derrin spoke to the region's music teachers encouraging any students contemplating a career in Music to come along. 

The program has had an excellent response and Derrin is pleased to welcome such a cross section of musicians to the course.

"It is great to have so many students interested in Jammin' which is now in its second year.  The response from the students has been fantastic."

"This is not like a traditional music school or music camp.  The school students are able to taste the full university experience working alongside conservatorium students in bands, classes, projects and on-campus social activities.

"This will enable school age students considering studying music at tertiary level to make an informed decision in this area."

The Jammin'  program will end appropriately with an information session on Friday night followed by a concert in the CQCM theatre.  Parents of the students will have a chance to talk to lecturers and see the fruits of their student's efforts at Jammin'.

For further details, please contact Derrin Kerr on 4940 7811.