St Joseph’s College Toowoomba
MUSIC PROGRAM 2011
Vocal and Instrumental
Dear Parents,
The St Joseph’s College Music Program is based upon the ideas of participation, fun and excellence. Building upon the music program of previous years, St Joseph's offers students the opportunity to perform in instrumental groups (Concert Bands, Jazz and Strings), Vocal Ensembles (Girls, Boys and Junior) as well as provide the opportunity for students to participate in private lessons. The College Music Program is a vital part of the College with students performing regularly at school events and community performances.
We at St Joseph’s believe that the gift of music is one that should be fostered and encouraged. Research is continually indicating that a student’s ability to ‘learn’ may be enhanced by learning music. Music involves auditory, visual, cognitive and motor skills that impact on the cerebral cortex creating positive benefits for other areas of learning. Learning music also develops discipline, requiring consistent application to improve and a responsible attitude towards lessons and care of the instruments.
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS
Students who undertake the study of an instrument or voice must understand the level of commitment required. Regular practice is vital for improvement (a minimum of four times a week). Students should carefully consider all their commitments to family, study and sport before commencing in the instrumental program.
Private tutors in consultation with the College have offered their services within school hours. Tutors currently charge $28 per half-hour individual lesson. This fee is under the recommended Award for music lessons. Students enter under a contract with their tutor for these lessons and fees are paid directly to the tutor. Lessons are generally charged for in advance. Lessons are not scheduled during College exam weeks. If a student is sick, the tutor will make every effort to give a catch-up lesson. Parents and students should always notify the tutor of their absence.
Group lessons (of two students) are available by some tutors. The lesson is shared between two students; each student will be charged $15 per lesson. These dual lessons are only effective if both students are commencing at the same level, usually beginners.
Student lesson times will be at the same time each week, but due to a cyclic timetable students will not miss the same lesson regularly. Tuition is available for: Piano, Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Guitar, Bass Guitar, Drums, Violin, Viola, Cello, Saxophone and Voice.
LOAN OF INSTRUMENTS
St Joseph’s College is able to loan a number of instruments to students who do not own their own. Students will be required to purchase their own reeds (for clarinets and saxophones) and their own tutor book as specified by the tutor. Numbers are limited so the first-in rule applies. Guitars and percussion instruments are NOT able to be borrowed.
Instruments which may be available for borrowing include: Flute, Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, French Horn, Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass.
REHEARSAL DAYS AND TIMES
Some Ensembles rehearse after school to allow more time for the group to reach its full potential. All other rehearsals are held during varying lunchtimes. This includes: Jazz Ensemble, Junior Band, Junior Choir, Boys Choir and Guitar Ensemble.
· Vocal Ensemble (Girls) Thursday 3:15 – 4:30pm
· Concert Band (Senior) Tuesday 3:15 – 4:30pm
· String Ensemble Monday 3:15 - 4:30pm
If you require any more information about the instrumental program at St Joseph’s please contact me at school. The attached form should be completed by:
· Students interested in joining St Joseph’s College Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Vocal Ensemble (choir) or String Ensemble.
· Students interested in learning from a private tutor at the College.
· Students with prior musical experience.
Madeleine Minns
(Culture and Performance Coordinator)