Performing Arts

Foundation and Year 1

Students in Foundation and Year 1 have continued exploring singing, body movement, and percussion instruments. They have been learning about maracas and tambourines, developing basic beat-keeping skills and practising simple techniques for playing each instrument. Students have enjoyed playing along to engaging songs such as Shake the Maracas and Tambourine Freeze, helping them build rhythm, coordination, and confidence while making music in a fun and interactive way. 

Year 2

Year 2 students have been practising the First Nations song Innay, a beautiful lullaby in the Yorta Yorta language. They have also continued expanding their knowledge of percussion instruments and expressive movement. Students have enjoyed singing along to songs such as Days of the Week while using body percussion to develop their sense of rhythm and coordination. They have also been learning to play the tambourine, practising basic techniques and keeping a steady beat while performing songs such as Fever and Tambourine Freeze. These activities have helped students build confidence, musical skills, and an understanding of rhythm in a fun and engaging way. 

Years 3 and 4

Students across the year levels have continued to explore percussion instruments, movement to music, and singing. This term, our focus was on the bongo drums. Students learned about the history and origins of the bongos and explored rhythmic patterns associated with Calypso music. They also developed their playing skills by performing a variety of rhythms. In addition, students were introduced to another percussion instrument, the maracas, and enjoyed using them to accompany songs and rhythmic activities. 

Years 5 and 6

Years 5 and 6 have begun an exciting new unit exploring hip hop and rap music. Students have been introduced to the history and development of rap, while also learning how to use to GarageBand create their own backing beats. As part of the unit, students can choose to transform a Dr. Seuss book into a rhythmic rap or write their own original rhyming lyrics. They will then use GarageBand to produce a beat that complements their performance, combining creativity, rhythm, and digital music production skills.