Lisa McCowage – Assistant Director of Music (Extra Curricular) K-12

Welcome to our Music Matters page! 🎶

We are thrilled to share exciting updates about our Extra-Curricular Music activities! All our ensembles and choirs are now up and running for the year. On the Music Portal Page you’ll find links to our rehearsal schedule as well as information about enrolment into private tuition, the Years K -2 Infant Strings Program, and how to borrow an instrument. 

We are delighted to announce the introduction of a training band, set to commence at the beginning of Term 2, offering a fantastic opportunity for our beginner musicians to enhance their skills at a level appropriate to their abilities. Notably, our Tuesday morning Wind Band (in Room M16) will now serve as our core Primary School Band, predominately comprised of Years 5 and 6 students.

Meanwhile, the Tuesday morning Concert Band (in Room M11) transitions to become our Intermediate High School Band for students in Years 7-9. Symphonic Winds (on Thursday afternoon in Rooms M12 and M13) will be our premier Concert Band for students in Years 9-12. This diverse array of bands ensures a comprehensive musical education, allowing musicians to progress at a pace that suits their current abilities while offering opportunities for growth and advancement as their skills develop over time. Watch this space for the “new” composer names associated with each group.

Rock Bands are gaining popularity among our students, and auditions for these bands will take place during Week 6 recess on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The audition sign-up sheet is located on the glass wall opposite the Music Department office. Prepare to showcase a song you love and feel confident with and be open to demonstrating your skills with some sight reading.

It is worth noting that due to their popularity the small rock bands and jazz bands are the most difficult ensembles/groups to get into, as they require a high level of musical skill and musical autonomy, so there is no expectation that everyone who auditions will be given the opportunity to become a member. Fortunately, there is a core ensemble or choir for everyone!

We are confident that these enhancements to our Extra-Curricular Program will create a vibrant and enriching experience for all our talented musicians. Whether you are a delving into the world of rock bands, joining our established ensembles or exploring the possibilities of the training band, there is a place for everyone to cultivate their passion for music!