JUNIOR SCHOOL
INTERVIEW :
HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL STRINGS
Amberley Bremner was appointed Head of Junior School Strings in 2016 . She holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Melbourne , a Master ’ s degree in Music Therapy , a Master of Teaching degree and has undertaken further post-graduate studies in autism . She also has diplomas on both piano and violin , and regularly performs professionally .
Amberley has produced some extraordinary concerts with the Junior School strings , including one where the Year 2 boys had bows modified to look like light sabres – it looked fantastic when the lights were dimmed , the bows lit up , and the strings were playing an arrangement of Star Wars ! She is one of the most imaginative and creative teachers that I have ever worked with .
DR JOHN FERGUSON – DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
What is your role at Scotch College ?
My role at Scotch contributes to both Junior and Senior School music . I spend most of my Scotch days as Head of Junior School Strings , leading our huge program of approximately 200 Junior School boys in orchestras , ensemble programs / classes , competitions , camps , performance opportunities , and also class and individual teaching .
In the Senior School I conduct the Middle School Orchestra , chamber groups , teach individuals and participate in Senior School camps and activities . Another component of my Scotch life is Teacherin-Charge of Pipes and Drums . This is a busy and loud (!) department of the school , where the boys passionately represent Scotch at regular competitions , trips and events . It is inspiring to be part of a thriving and busy music department .
Many years from now when you are no longer teaching , what is one of the Scotch memories you will reflect on to warm your heart ?
I will fondly remember the creativity and kindness of the Junior School boys .
AMBERLEY BREMNER
The example that sparkles in my mind is a program , strings boys participate in , called ‘ Giving Bach ’. Our Years 5 and 6 boys are tasked with giving or sharing their music . This is not for any personal gain ; that is , boys cannot perform pieces in preparation for an exam or busk for pocket money .
The boys ' selections always astound staff and the boys delight in seeing the enjoyment of those with whom they have shared their music . Boys learn specific music for their audiences ’ enjoyment and have chosen to share their music in hospitals , aged care facilities , busking for charities or connecting to family members overseas .
I will also warmly remember the boys ’ outstanding level of musical competence , always accepting challenges and exceeding expectations .
Is there an interesting fact about you that you are willing to share ?
Prior to working at Scotch , I was a music therapist in the Royal Children ’ s Hospital , Brisbane . After completing a Masters in Music Therapy from Melbourne University , I moved to Brisbane to work full-time in the neonatal intensive care , oncology , palliative care and burns units . It is an incredible job , where you connect via music with families in their intense time of crisis .
Music therapy is where you use music as a tool to achieve non-musical goals ; for example , using music as a memory maker ( palliative care ), as a distraction ( burns graft procedures ), or to support physical goals for long-term patients such as increased verbalisation , movement or social interaction goals . I am able to use my music therapy skills intertwined with my teaching , and have more recently studied a Masters in Autism Studies . I look forward to continuing to use music to further support students at Scotch .
What do you find most rewarding about teaching ?
Observing the boys ’ personal development over their Scotch journey . Music teachers are unique in that we can contribute to a boy ’ s Scotch life from Prep through to Year 12 .
What do you look forward to every year ?
A personal highlight is the Year 2 Strings Program . This program allows all Year 2 boys to learn a string instrument and participate in the Year 2 Orchestra for six months . This program is such fun and high energy , while initially not always pleasant to listen to ! It provides all Year 2s with an opportunity to engage as instrumental musicians , while showing the dedication and effort required to play a musical instrument .
This program encourages boys to learn commitment , care and respect for others and instruments , organisational skills , communication and teamwork in a motivating musical context . Most importantly , the boys are able to experience what it feels like to be a part of an orchestra , which we hope inspires them to continue a lifelong love of music – whatever instrument they choose ! Each concert has a theme and the boys delight in experiencing instrumental music together .
18 Great Scot Issue 168 – May 2023