Board shorts will replace trousers when Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music students head to Hamilton Island next week. .

In a first for Australia 40 CQCM students and staff will attend workshops and perform on the island from April 9-12. .

CQCM Jazz Studies Co-ordinator Glen Hodges said each morning students will attend workshops with international jazz trumpeter Don Rader. .

“In the afternoon jazz, soul, blues and latin groups will perform in different venues through to midnight,” he said. .

“This is an extremely unique opportunity for students to learn in the same environment that they are performing. No other university jazz program provides a vital link between university studies and the tourism industry, which is potentially where our students may seek employment.” .

Prior to the visit, students composed original pieces in preparation for composition and arrangement activities being facilitated by Mr Rader. Students will make a live recording of their work. .

With 39 years in the profession, Mr Rader has toured with Diana Ross, Count Basie, Woody Herman, Henry Mancinni, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lewis and Bob Hope. He also performed in five Vietnam war-time tours. .

Hamilton Island Public Relations Manager Susan Boyd welcomed the island’s first formal partnership with a professional entity.

“These workshops provide an opportunity for Hamilton Island to offer a culture of learning and it also provides quality entertainment for guests,” she said. .

She expected 1500 guests would be on the island for the first event. Similar workshops will be held in June, August and September. An international jazz festival and conference will be held on September 12-14.

Photo caption (left): CQCM Jazz Studies lecturers Glen Hodges and Derrin Kerr (right) and student Daniel Scott prepare for their first workshop on Hamilton Island.