Meet Alexandra Czarnecki-Roper, Bachelor of Music (Jazz & Improvisation) graduate

Percussion graduate Alexandra Czarnecki-Roper didn’t secure a place at the Conservatorium straight away.

I studied for two years at another institution and, after gaining a lot of experience, decided to audition again, and made it through. I wanted to study at the Conservatorium because I really liked the idea of studying alongside students from other disciplines such as acting, photography and studio art. I also appreciated how well located and beautiful the Southbank campus was, being in the heart of Melbourne city, and near many amazing facilities like the NGV, Melbourne Recital Centre and Crossways.

Presenting my third-year recital was awesome and definitely one of the highlights of the course. It’s was great way to think about what you wanted to perform, and with whom, and you have the freedom to do it how you’d like to. It’s a chance to challenge yourself but also refine what it is you’re interested in, and perhaps even get some insight into what you’d like to pursue after university.

One of the most important skills I learned at the Conservatorium was how to manage my time. That will definitely help me to succeed in being a professional musician. I know now I’m able to achieve a lot – it just requires consistent and focused work, and using each day efficiently in a way that still works with my natural habits.

To people keen to pursue a career in music, I’d say: keep in mind that everyone is on their own path. No path is right or wrong.

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