Performing Arts Report

Prep and Grade 2

This Semester in Performing Arts/Music, the students from Grade Prep and 2 have been using a variety of instruments to create short beats, rhythms and patterns as well as follow some basic music notation to play along to a short song. 

The students mainly used tuned and non-tuned percussion instruments throughout the lessons but also used some strings instruments such as the Ukulele for Grade Prep and acoustic guitars for the Grade 2 classes.

Grade 1

Grade 1 students recently wrapped up their Drama unit with a fun puppetry performance in class. Afterward, they had the opportunity to watch and evaluate their own drama skills, reflecting on their growth and achievements. 

Now, the focus has shifted to dance, where students are developing new skills, exploring how to communicate through movement, and arranging steps to create their own short dances. They are also learning a dance routine for the upcoming Prep and Grade 1 mini concert later this term. They are all doing a fantastic job showing great expression and creativity!

Grade 3

Grade 3 students recently showcased their storytelling skills by performing their developed stories to the class. Afterwards, they watched their performances on the big screen, allowing them to evaluate their storytelling, drama, and performance skills, as well as identify areas for improvement. 

The Grade 3 children are now focusing on dance, where they’re learning new moves, creating their own dance sequences, and analysing various dance genres. They’re also rehearsing a special dance to perform alongside the Grade 2 children at the upcoming mini concert later this term. Grade 3 are bringing fantastic energy and enthusiasm to their dances and are making great progress!

Incursions

Since our last report, the students from Grade Prep and One also had the opportunity to listen to a full band and ensemble perform when a large group of students from Preston High School (including some past students) visited our school. It was wonderful to see the different size and shapes of the instruments used and hear the amazing sounds they made on their own and together as a group. This performance was a great way to complement their learning of the different musical families, orchestras and conductors.

Last week, our Grade 2 classes had an incursion with Jayden that was titled ‘Band Night’. This was a great session provided as the students split into small groups, or ‘bands’ to learn a short song before performing it on stage in front of their peers. It was fantastic to see them give it a go and show persistence on learning something new and different with everyone looking on. It was also wonderful to see and hear the positive encouragement the students gave when they were in the audience.

Grade 6 Band

The Grade 6 band are fine tuning their songs for the upcoming Art Show this week and are looking forward to performing to the PPS community! They have been working really well this term with learning a new song to add to their list and it will be great to see them have the chance to perform in front of their friends, family and peers.

Until next time,

Rock on!

Samantha McCall and Jason Sofra