Music

The junior courses cater for all levels of musical experience and equip students with knowledge of skills in performance, composition and musicology/aural. In each year, performance of various ensemble pieces is related to the classroom topic and performed in either a solo or group format. Stage craft is an integral component of this activity and the school has a large collection of resources to meet this need. Students also learn about current music software programs while engaging in a number of compositional activities throughout the year.

School musicians are regularly represented in top HSC results (First in the state in 2012 and 2008) and the prestigious Encore Concert of exemplar HSC performances. High end music software and an extensive library of scores and audio recordings assist students to their best outcomes. Musicology, the historical and theoretical knowledge of the discipline, is taught through a range of strategies such as viva voce, score analysis and research activities.

Regardless of instrumental skill level, there are opportunities to participate in the Performing Ensembles Program from Year 7 onwards ranging from Stage and Concert Band formats to Choir, String groups and Beginner programs. Other activities include an annual Music Camp.

Both the curriculum classes and the performing ensembles present repertoire at annual Musicale and Summer Ensemble concerts, play at school assemblies and ceremonial occasions such as Anzac Day, graduation and award ceremonies, as well as competitions such as Bandfest.

A series of masterclasses are organised annually primarily for elective and senior students, with instrument and software specialists, peripatetic staff and virtuoso former students.

Students attend music and theatre performances such as School Spectacular, Encore and Les Miserables related to classroom learning. Visits to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, The Australian Music Centre, the Australian Institute of Music and occasional backstage tours to venues which have significance to school study.