Loops in Schools is a live-looping performance workshop that teaches students how to construct and create dynamic musical compositions. Award-winning saxophonist and composer Nick Russoniello will perform and discuss his own compositions, outlining strategies for manipulating the elements of music to engage and surprise the listener. The workshop focuses on creativity thinking, experimentation, music technology, compositional development techniques, expression and stage craft. Students will be actively involved in composing a new piece of music together with Nick on the day.
Nick’s live looping show has been presented at the Royal College of Music (London), Conservatorio di Milano (Italy), Conservatoire de Strasbourg (France), The University of New South Wales, The University of Sydney, City Recital Hall and for Sydney Festival and Musica Viva Regional Touring. Nick has a doctorate from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music where he currently tutors Composition for the Creative Industries, he is also an examiner for the Australian Music Examinations Board.
Testimonials
‘Dr Nick Russoniello is a master of performance and composition craft, championing the cause of Australian composition and technology integration. I have seen first-hand the rich benefit of his instruction over the years, with countless students inspired and empowered towards their own music making, finding their own artistic voices.’
Amy Richardson - Director of Music P-12 Santa Sabina College
‘Nick’s performance was interactive and engaging and was a wonderful way to introduce the students to extended techniques and composition. The students enjoyed this engaging and fun performance.’
Hilary Luck - Head of Junior School Music, Abbotsleigh School
‘Nick’s presentation at the Voyage of Musical Discovery was fantastic! It was engaging, informative and fun, and the audience was enthralled from the moment he walked on stage!’
Nicole van Bruggen - Co-Artistic Director, Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra
‘An entertaining and educational performance of a work that is approachable for musicians of all backgrounds. He really gave the audience an insight into his composition process and the technology of this genre.’
Joseph Montz - Music Teacher & Head of Bands, SCECGS Redlands
Suitability: Year 9-12 Elective Music, HSC & IB
Resources: Loops in Schools includes
• Analysis notes of the compositions Pocket Loops and Dawn Searching
• An in-class compositional task