Preparatory School Handbook 2019 | Page 41

Co-Curricular and Camps All of the year groups will learn to read music and play classroom instruments such as xylophones, metallophones and auxiliary percussion. There is an important emphasis on being a risk taker and learning to improve performance skills through a variety of experiences. The Preparatory School ensemble program is wide and varied. Students may choose from a comprehensive list of ensembles including choirs, string orchestras, concert bands, jazz ensembles, rock bands and a number of smaller chamber groups. All ensembles are directed by trained music educators and are tailored to the specific ability levels of the students in order to both challenge and educate. Performance opportunities abound for all students across the school. Ensembles regularly perform at Music Department events as well as at school functions such as assemblies, Chapel services, special events and the ever-popular ‘Tunesday Tuesday’ performances. The Preparatory School Eisteddfod allows every student the opportunity to perform in an adjudicated, but non- competitive, environment. The Year 2 String program gives each student the experience of learning an orchestral String instrument as a part of the Music classroom curriculum. Each student will be provided with an orchestral String instrument (violin, viola or ‘cello) for the year and will be assessed on their progress and performance abilities as the year progresses. Students are given a weekly group instrumental lesson each week and are also required to attend one conducted ensemble per week for the entire year. The instrumental music program is coordinated by the Director of Music, Mr Kieran Hurley, in the Senior Music School. For further information about the instrumental music program, please contact: Administration Officer, Music and Arts Mrs Annie Boehm (Senior School Music office) (08) 9377 9280 [email protected] The School also offers a comprehensive Instrumental Music Tuition program. This program, run by the School of Music, offers the students the opportunity to learn a musical instrument as a part of their overall educative experience. Lessons are 30 minutes in duration and are held as a part of the regular school timetable. Tuition is available for the following instruments: piano, guitar, bass guitar, violin, viola, cello, double bass, woodwind, brass, drums and voice. Lessons are very reasonably priced and are taught by qualified music professionals. 41