Jessica Sharp from Noosa is a bubbly girl who makes the most of all opportunities in life and studying at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) in Mackay is one that she is grasping with both hands.

"Since I've been at CQCM I have performed more than ever.  You can talk about it in the classroom as much as you want but it's more important to gain experience in a professional setting," says Jessica of the many gigs she has performed this year as part of her degree at CQCM.

Jessica Sharp in performance mode

For obvious reasons, week-long stints on Hamilton Island 4 times in the year have been Jessica's favourite type of gig.

"We've worked with some of the finest musicians, locally, nationally and internationally and I'm really looking forward to the final 2 years of the program" said Jessica.

Conservatorium lecturers Judith Brown and Garrick Jones will host auditions for the next batch of CQCM students in Brisbane on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 6-7, at 4MBS Studios, Coorparoo.

It's not too late to apply and further details of auditions are available via Kim MacKenzie on 4940 7801 or k.mackenzie@cqu.edu.au.

Central Queensland University's (CQU) new Bachelor of Music (Specialisation) degree contains specializations in jazz and popular music, music theatre, and classical music. The new Bachelor of Performing Arts (Specialisation) is a flexible program with a number of specialisation options, preparing graduates who are competent to work in a variety of setting within the Arts industry.

For more information go to www.cqu.edu.au/cqcm

Students completing programs at CQCM can do an additional year in the Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching to qualify as a school teacher.