Big Band Workshop
The Big Band Workshop is specifically designed to assist Australian School Big Bands and their directors. Leveraging decades of highly successful experience at various prominent schools, Peter Foley has pinpointed key considerations that matter most to directors in the development of their bands. The primary focus of this initiative revolves around Peter’s targeted workshops, addressing specific topics catered to both bands and directors.
Peter Foley
Peter’s Lifelong Dedication to Big Band Jazz and Community
Peter embodies a lifelong commitment to nurturing quality big band jazz programs, both within schools and the broader community. As a school big band director, he not only orchestrates outstanding performances but also ignites the spark of enthusiasm and engagement in the young musicians he leads.
His legacy extends beyond amazing concerts. The Big Bands under Peter’s guidance, whether at Wesley College (Melbourne) or St Leonard’s College, have consistently clinched top honors at the Generations In Jazz National Stage Band Awards. It’s no wonder he was the inaugural recipient of the prestigious GIJ Band Director’s Award.
Yet Peter’s impact transcends accolades. As a mentor, he elevates his students to heights they once only dreamed of. Several former protégés have garnered national recognition, including coveted awards like the James Morrison Scholarship. What unites these rising stars? It’s the joyful spirit and unwavering commitment that Peter instills—a harmonious blend of passion and technical prowess.
Beyond the school gates, Peter’s tireless efforts resonate through community music. His dedication earned him the 2023 Citizen Of The Year Award from the City of Kingston. As the Artistic Director of the Kingston Carols By Candlelight and the Festival Director of the Big Band Sunsets series, he weaves melodies into the cultural fabric of residents’ lives.
Professionally, Peter’s baton has danced with some of Australia’s finest talents. From Kate Ceberano’s soulful notes to Leo Sayer’s timeless melodies, he orchestrates magic. Daryl Braithwaite, Anthony Calleja, James Morrison, and Marina Pryor have all shared the stage with this maestro.
Peter’s legacy isn’t just about music—it’s about harmony, community, and the joy of creating something greater together.
What people say about Peter…
Rick Keenan – Director of Music Eltham High School
“Peter Foley is one of Australia’s most successful high school Big Band Directors. In asking Peter to work with the students and staff at Eltham High School, we wanted to tap into the incredible culture that he has built through his school programs over the years. It was obvious from the first moment of his rehearsal with our Bands that a big part of the culture that Peter builds is based on student empowerment. On top of that Peter has an incredible pedagogy of rehearsal craft that builds the knowledge of the students in the art of Big Band style. Add to that an incredible vibe, and what you have is a passionate educator who can take any level of musician and develop their love of Jazz and community.”
Alex Lahey – International indie rock/pop artist
From a feature article in The Australian newspaper (2019)
“… While attending Wesley College in central Melbourne, Lahey earned a spot to study with St Kilda Road Big Band director Peter Foley, who soon helped to open her eyes to the limitless possibilities of musical expression. By approaching the art form in an unorthodox yet inclusive manner, his inspirational teaching style led to questions that still ring in her ears.
Under Foley, the ability to show off by playing fast was secondary to the ability to play in time. He taught Lahey and her peers to ask themselves: Where are the changes in each piece? How are you interpreting this music? And most important: are you having fun and connecting with the person next to you, or across the room from you?”
Jordan Murray – Generations in Jazz Festival – Musical Director
“When it comes to bringing the best out of big bands, Peter Foley has the Midas touch – that intangible balance of motivation and inspiration while empowering the band to realise their true potential. “
James Morrison
“Peter is one of those rare individuals who not only has considerable knowledge, but is also able to pass this on whilst inspiring students of all levels with his unbounded enthusiasm and passion for the music. There are those who teach, and then there are those who are true educators – because they inspire. Peter is definitely the latter.”
Sample of student comments
From varied age students after participating in workshops
- “I liked how we were given ownership over our rehearsal”
- “Created an atmosphere of support for students and soloists or features”
- “Got the band to not only play their notes but bring out the musicality in the piece”
- “Helped us to understand the techniques required to bring out the context of the music”
Jasmine Bade – Country singer/songwriter
From the Wesley College “LION” magazine about teachers that mattered
“Peter Foley inspired me in so many ways as a teacher, band director, musician and mentor from teaching me trombone as the only female trombonist in the year level in Grade 6 up to making it into the Mt Gambier Generations in Jazz Division 1 Superband in Year 10. In bands with Mr Foley, the ‘groove’ was everything and nothing was unachievable if we all helped each other. I really had the time of my life learning from the ground up in those sessions. Now as a 27-year-old, I work with some other professional musicians and Peter Foley’s name comes up in circles around town and I’ve heard only the most wonderful things spoken of him. Who knows if I would have moved to Nashville and pursued my career as a musician if not for my foundations under the wing of Mr Foley. Regardless, I feel very privileged that I got to witness his mastery during my time at Wesley.” – Jazzy Bade-Boon (OW2013)
Darryl J Pope OAM – Former Director of Music (retired)
“Peter Foley is a “Band Whisperer”. Every time he stands in front of a band and works with them, they come out swinging harder, and play with greater unity and sense of stylistic understanding. Add this to the fact that his bands are always having a good time and you have the perfect combination. Get him in to work with your bands whilst he is available!”
Dave Melgaard – Professional trumpeter
“If you want your school band to have “the edge” at their next performance, Peter Foley is the best. His deep knowledge of jazz, combined with passion, humour and a proven track record is second to none.”