Debbie O’Shea
Educator – Composer
What is your musical background?
I had piano lessons as a child, even though my parents had no music knowledge or background at all. I always loved singing and being part of the high school musicals and, of course, singing in choirs. At Teachers College I studied general primary classroom teaching, and with a Music Major. Well, that was it! I got to work with Pam Burton, was so excited by Kodály pedagogy, that I began the wonderful journey of Music Education that still propels me. I became a Primary Music Specialist and I love every minute of my teaching. I am also fortunate to support others through my work with Kodály Queensland, and my business Crescendo Music Education. I adore podcasting, creating resources, courses, webinars, social media…all the things that support others to deliver Music Education to our children. Every child NEEDS Music Education.
What is your advice to singers performing your works?
Please, please, please have fun and spread joy through singing together. Many of my pieces have a humorous element. I would love to think you are hamming it up and having a blast. (Of course, educating along the way!)
Songs by Debbie:
Coconut Banana (SA with piano and hand-percussion) and backing track
Daintree River (SSA with piano and optional cello/viola) and backing track
How do you do te (a canon for SSA with piano) and backing track
Jack Sprat (SA with piano and optional Bb clarinet or C instrument) with backing track
Roses are Red (SA with piano) and backing track
To be Free (3-part canon with piano) and backing track
We Shake the Ground (2-parts with piano and body percussion) – lyrics
What are your favourite pieces you’ve composed?
Daintree River would probably be my favourite. I love the ethereal feel that the Phrygian mode creates. Jack Spratt is funny and super effective for young choirs. I like a ‘full on’ fight over the ‘fat’ as the finale. Roses are Red is also fun as it starts out like a gorgeous love song and adds the insult about being a nut within a gentle vocal line that has the audience second guessing, wondering if they heard correctly.