Music News

Dear Parents, Carers & Music Students, 

Instrumental music staff couldn’t be happier with the progress our students have made this term. A special mention must go out to our beginner students who have turned up to their weekly lessons ready with their instrument and music. They have all shown great commitment in such short time. Besides instrumental lessons we have had a very productive term with lots of rehearsals taking place throughout the week. Our junior concert band had their first official rehearsal. This ensemble has 20 band members. They sounded amazing and were a knockout! I can’t wait to have the group back next term as we had lots of fun making our first sounds together playing in an ensemble. Our string group, intermediate concert band, rock bands and acoustic guitar ensembles have all been busy learning new songs. We look forward to our first official concert that will take place in term 2. It will feature all ensembles and solo items including our vocal students. Concert details will go out early next term to all families. 

New singing group HARMONIX- Come and Try Sessions run by Ms Kate Steinman.

Did you know that research has found that singing releases endorphins which reduce stress and anxiety levels and contribute to a positive mental state?

It is exciting to announce that any student can attend our school’s new singing group’s come- and- try sessions from 1:40-2:05pm in A3 on Wednesdays in Weeks 2 and 3 of next term.Harmonix, the name of this group, will sing songs from a variety of musical genres and eras, sometimes in unison but generally in two or three parts. No prior experience is necessary, just come along and enjoy singing with fellow singing enthusiasts! Not only will students benefit from the uplifting experience of singing with others, but they will also learn how to harmonise. Students will have input into song choice.

Maffra SC Open Night

In week 2 the College will be hosting a grade 6 information night. This will take place in the Art Building on Monday 1st May. Ensembles invited to perform on the night are the intermediate concert band, rock band, acoustic guitar group and our VCE music students.

Instrumental Music Tuition/Instrument Hire Fees

Instrumental tuition and instrument hire fees were due in week 5 term one. Could parents please check their statements. A reminder that the College does offer payment plans. Please contact the office on 5147-1790 for more information. 

Practice, Practice Practice

Setting up a regular practice routine will have many benefits. 20-30 minutes a day would be a good start. Playing long notes to warm up, scales, reading your lesson work, sight reading and practising your ensemble pieces will have you prepared for the week ahead. This means you can learn to play more challenging music and be leaders of your section. If you put the time in, you will no doubt see the results. Also, a reminder to take your instrument home after your lesson. Do not leave it at school as instruments don’t practise by themselves.

Concert

Our first official concert will take place in the library on Monday 22nd May. It will commence at 6.30pm and should conclude by 8.30pm. All ensembles will be performing including solos and duos. This will be a great night showcasing the musical talent we have here at Maffra SC. Please put this date in your diaries and a reminder to students if they have work or sport commitments to please make other arrangements, as we would love to have all musicians in attendance.

Lessons

Lessons will be on Compass before the end of the holidays. A reminder to all students to check when their lesson is on Compass before they return to school. 

As a coordinator, I couldn’t be happier with the progress, attitude, and commitment our musicians have displayed throughout the term. On behalf of all instrumental music staff have a great holiday. We look forward seeing you all at the beginning of term two.

Gerry Ciavarella

Instrumental Music

Coordinator