Keeping it Fresh
The University of Southern Queensland’s McGregor Summer School will celebrate its 45th anniversary next year (2013).
With a four decade-strong history, School organisers cleverly juggle the challenge of programming a combination of popular favourites and exciting new offerings.
Charged with the task of keeping the program fresh, McGregor Schools Co-ordinator, Christine Matthews is always on the look-out for interesting workshops and tutors.
“This year, we have a number of new classes on offer and there are also a lot of new faces in our tutor line-up,” said Christine.
“We are especially pleased to be introducing classes in comic booking and the ukulele.”
Brisbane illustrator, David Lovegrove will share his passion for Manga comics and graphic novels during his ‘Manga Magic’ workshop.
“David is a professional illustrator who works in advertising, publishing and the film industry who has been teaching drawing, painting and Manga/comic booking for twenty years with a fabulous reputation both as a tutor and an artist within his own right.”
David runs annual Manga workshops during Japan Week for the Consulate General of Japan, has drawn Manga for Emirates Airlines in Dubai, and the President of Iceland owns one of his comics.
“Millions of Manga are produced every week for every age group and demographic around the world and we hope to be able to capture just a little bit of Manga magic at the Summer School.”
Brisbane musician, Roo Friend will share his love of the Ukulele & Harmony Singing during the School.
With 28 years’ experience including gigs with Col Joye, Little Pattie, Judy Stone (with Elvis Presley’s piano player, Larry Muhoberac) and Normie Rowe, Roo has much the share.
“The ukulele is the easiest instrument to learn and currently experiencing a major resurgence in popularity.”
Highly sought-after jazz musician, Dave Spier will also be another new addition to the 2013 tutor line-up, offering a Jazz Piano workshop.
“Dave is an exciting young musician, with numerous recordings, television, radio and festival appearances to his credit as well as being a highly regarded teacher currently on staff at the Queensland Conservatorium.
“He has an equal love of performing and educating which makes him an ideal McGregor tutor.”
Other classes on offer at the ten-day arts retreat include acrylics, watercolours, drawing, glass bead making, calligraphy and an assortment of musical instruments.
The USQ McGregor Summer School runs from 9-19 January 2013 at the University of Southern Queensland’s Toowoomba campus.
For further information call 07 4631 2755 or visit www.usq.edu.au/mcgregor