Students from New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, Tasmania and Western Australia have chosen to study at Mackay’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music this year.

Over 40 first-year CQCM students began orientation activities this week before commencing study on March 8.

CQCM Sub-Dean Judith Brown was excited by the distance students had travelled to study in Mackay.

“Competition was extremely high for the limited places available and we have been able to attract talented students from around Australia and overseas to study at CQCM,” she said.

“There are also a large number of students studying off-campus as students of the Virtual Conservatorium. This innovative approach to tertiary music education allows students much greater flexibility with their studies so that they learn anyhow, anywhere and at anytime.”.

CQCM students will be kept busy this year as an exciting 15th birthday program has been planned.

The events include concerts, outdoor performances and musicals.

The 15th Birthday Gala Concert begins the celebrations on March 20 from 8pm, followed by the Bachelor of Music Theatre student production of The Sentimental Bloke from April 29 to May 1.

The sensational musical Footloose will be presented from August 19-21, with classical music lovers offered a chance to enjoy a recital by internationally acclaimed pianist Mark Gasser on October 9.

For more details about any of the events and to make bookings, please phone Kim MacKenzie on 4940 7800.