Strings

IPS string teachers are inspired at AUSTA National Conference 

During the July holidays, three IPS string teachers, Margaret, Sophia and Lachlan, enjoyed visiting Sydney for the triennial Australian Strings Association Conference.  

We heard presentations on a wide range of topics including how great learning music is for brain function; establishing good foundations for beginner string students; instrument maintenance; tips for rehearsing ensembles; thinking rhetorically to be more expressive and new Australian repertoire. There were presenters from all around Australia, including Stephen Chin whose music we play a lot of at IPS. There were also several international presenter, including Thomas Gregory whose music we use a lot in Start Up Strings and Brian Balmages who wrote a piece we are playing in Orchestra at the moment. 

With string players, teachers, makers and retailers from all over Australia in attendance, it was a great chance to meet new people and to catch up with old friends. The trip was a wonderful opportunity for inspiring professional development, fun interactions with fellow string educators and to see some sunshine! 

Lachlan, Margaret & Sophia