Music
Want to 'train your brain'? Learn a musical instrument
"Music probably does something unique," explains neuropsychologist Catherine Loveday of the University of Westminster. "It stimulates the brain in a very powerful way, because of our emotional connection with it."
Playing a musical instrument is a rich and complex experience that involves integrating information from the senses of vision, hearing and touch, as well as fine movements, and learning to do so can induce long-lasting changes in the brain.
"Music reaches parts of the brain that other things can't," says Loveday. "It's a strong cognitive stimulus that grows the brain in a way that nothing else does, and the evidence that musical training enhances things like working memory and language is very robust."
Learning an Instrument at Wanganui
Choosing to learn a musical instrument is the easy part! The path to success rewards students who show patience, resilience and commitment.
When can I sign up?
Sign up night is Monday Feb 20th 7:30pm. Students can also register interest with music staff if unable to attend sign up night.
What is the personal and family commitment?
Students need to be able to put aside time to practice each day. Families of instrumental music students need to provide space and lots of encouragement.
When are the lessons?
Shared tutorial sessions follow a rotating timetable that is set by individual instrumental teachers. A weekly tutorial is given as part of instrumental music membership, as is a weekly Ensemble / Band rehearsal.
Training Band rehearses Wednesday after school at 3:30pm.
Junior Strings rehearse Friday at lunchtime.
Junior Keyboard rehearses Wednesday at lunchtime.
What is the financial commitment?
Membership to the Instrumental Music program is $130 per semester.
Can I hire an instrument?
Instruments can be hired from the school for $70 per semester. The hire period is usually for one year but this can be extended if required.
2017 Options:
Brass – Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Tuba
Woodwind – Flute, Clarinet, Sax
Percussion – Drum kit, Timpani, Xylophone
Strings – Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
Piano
Vocal
Guitar
Head of Music - Steven Sargant
Phone - 0417549096
Web - XUNO or