The pre-teen years are a fantastic time to invest in music learning. The brain is growing as fast as it did in pre-school years so they are able to learn and grow a lot. Music learning also helps the brain develop and helps other areas of school work. Students have time, and are physically big enough to invest into practice. They often make life-long friendships, play in ensembles together and become much better prepared for secondary school and teenage years.

TUITION

Some tuition is subsidised, and some are privately funded (individual or small group, parents pay directly to the tutor). Lessons take place both in and out of school time.

This year we have 16 specialist itinerant teachers. The cost of lessons currently ranges from $13 to approximately $26 per week depending on the instrument and length of the lesson. There are some subsidies and sponsorships available.

Tuition is offered in the following instruments:

Flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, french horn, violin, viola, cello, double cello, keyboard, piano, vocals, bass guitar, acoustic, electric and classical guitar, drums, Scottish drumming, bagpipes

There are about 200 students receiving music tuition and in music groups in the school this year.

INSTRUMENT HIRE

Most instruments are available for hire through the school at very reasonable costs. Otherwise, instruments may be hired from music shops or privately owned.

MUSIC GROUPS

ORCHESTRA

Approximately 30 all-comer musicians playing a range of classical to film music.

CHOIR

Takes part in the Christchurch Music Festival, Voices Festival, NZ Music Month, and school events.

JAZZ BANDS (BIG BAND AND COMBO)

The award-winning jazz bands are in demand as unique, young performance groups. Bands take part in JazzQuest, Big Band Festival, Junior Jazz Jam, and tours.

RECORDER ENSEMBLE

The descant, alto, tenor and bass recorder group play at Strum Strike and Blow.

CELTIC GROUP

Fiddle, tin whistle, flute, bodhran, guitar, bass, mandolin

MARIMBA GROUP

Plays in Strum, Strike, Blow Festival, and at the Re-percussion concert.

UKULELE BAND

Plays in the Strum, Strike, Blow Festival, and NZ Music month events.

ROCK BANDS & ROCKESTRA

Play originals and covers –take part in Rockquest, Tangata Beats and Bandquest. Many previous awards.

COMPUTER MUSIC

Lunchtimes, Leisure Ed or class options. A large range of exciting software.

SOUND and LIGHTING TECHNICIANS

Receive a holiday training course with state-of-the-art equipment

THEORY CLUB

Fun after-school music club with the option of sitting exams.

Groups rehearse weekly, some in school time, and perform in assemblies, concerts, and in the community.

These groups are all free.

By Pieta Hextall