Music

The aim of the classroom program is to foster and develop an appreciation, love and understanding of music. Music literacy is developed through singing, listening, movement and creating music. The program is developmental and students experience a wide variety of activities, both vocal and instrumental. Prep Music is a “pre-learning” course where boys work on team work, co-operation, beat, in-tune singing and gross and fine motor skills.

Years 1 & 2 covers basic reading of limited rhythm and pitch notation and aural recognition of the same. Activities also encourage team work, in-tune singing and continuing development of gross and fine motor skills. All boys in these year levels sing in choir and learn to play tuned percussion in the classroom environment.
Year 3 is enhanced with the string program where all boys learn violin, cello or double bass.

The classroom program continues to develop their music literacy, aural skills and music appreciation. Classroom percussion performance is also incorporated into the program.

Years 4 – 6 is a continuation of the previous years with the addition of classroom ensemble work either with tuned percussion or the instrument learned by the boys. The boys will also begin music analysis and composition.

Year 5 is enhanced with the Instrumental Program whereby boys learn a string, percussion, woodwind or brass instrument. The Year 5 Instrumental Program is a compulsory part of the Year 5 curriculum. It is at this age that boys are physically able to handle the demands of a brass, woodwind or percussion instrument. All boys who are not learning a stringed instrument will undertake a suitability test to discover the instrument they are most suited to. The instruments will be allocated according to the results of this test and are loaned to the boys for the duration of Year 5. During Term 2, boys participate in the Holst Concert Band. After Term 2, membership to this group is by selection according to their diligence and commitment to the program.

Year 7 continues the program of work from year 6 but boys also enjoy the benefits of the Senior School Music Computer Laboratory learning to use “Band in the Box” and “Sibelius 5 ”.