The Road Autumn 2021

VIOLIN IS MY PASSION
WILLIAM DEANS
I was born in Ballarat and raised in Mount Helen since I was six
months old.
I live with my parents and younger brother Thomas, who also
attends Damascus. I live across the road from my Grandparents. I
think we are a close family in more ways than one.
I was two years old when I asked my Mum if I could play the violin.
Since the age of two, I have always had a strong passion to play
violin and I was lucky at the age of four to be directed to my music
teacher, Sarah Walters, who has helped me develop my violin skills.
When I was studying Year 9 I played in the band for the College
Production. During the production, I met Yvonne Holly and was
encouraged to join the string ensemble. Being a member of the
ensemble has provided me with opportunities to play with other
students who also have a passion for playing music.
Playing with others is my favourite part of
being in the ensemble.
When I play the violin, I tend to forget about any other stress or
concerns. I enjoy the sound the violin makes; I enjoy the challenge
of playing a technical instrument and the satisfaction of being able
to play complex pieces of music.
I do not tend to get nervous when the ensemble is asked to play at
large school events which might be because I have performed at
concerts during my musical studies. I enjoy playing at school events
and always have a sense of pride in everyone’s performance.
For me, playing an instrument has been a huge part of my life. I put
a lot of time into practising and developing my skills; although its
time consuming, I find it very rewarding. Studying music helps me
in other aspects of my studies as music requires me to understand
complex problems and gives me confidence that I can achieve
good outcomes with hard work. I would recommended studying a
musical instrument to anyone who has the time to practice.
What I enjoy most about Damascus College is the support and
encouragement from friends and College staff to be your best. My
favourite subjects over the years have been Physical Education and
Music, both of which I have studied as part of my VCE.
When I finish at Damascus, I hope to do some further study in
the health sciences or enter into a career that involves working in
the health industry. My dream career would be working for the
Hawthorn Football Club (in any role).
My advice for new students to Damascus would be to explore
the different groups offered through the schools’ extra-curricular
programs. Join groups, make friends and enjoy your time at school;
it doesn’t all have to be hard work.
William Deans, Year 12
The string ensemble also provides a relaxed environment where
you are supported to play together, no matter your ability. I play
football and cricket and can say that being a part of the ensemble
feels similar to being part of a sporting team as we all look out for
each other and support each other.
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