Music and Performing Arts Faculty

From the Co-ordinator of Music and Performing Arts

Music News

As subject selection approaches, the music team wishes to seize this opportunity to offer an insight into Music in Stage 5.

Why Choose Elective Music in Stage 5?

Stage 5 Music offers students a transformative journey into the world of music, providing not only a comprehensive understanding of musical concepts but also a wealth of invaluable skills and experiences beyond the realm of music itself. Whether you've been playing a musical instrument your whole life or simply have a passion for music, this course welcomes all with open arms. Through engaging exploration of music theory, history, and performance, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and cultural awareness. Whether honing instrumental skills or delving into composition and analysis, Stage 5 Music cultivates discipline, time management, and confidence. Beyond the classroom, students discover the power of music as a universal language, forging connections, relieving stress, and expressing emotions. As a pathway to personal growth and professional success, Stage 5 Music is a truly invaluable course, shaping well-rounded individuals equipped for a lifetime of musical appreciation and achievement.

Quotes from Stage 5 Music students:

Stage 5 Music has been a revelation for me. Despite not having played an instrument my whole life, my love for music brought me here. It's amazing how this course welcomes everyone, regardless of experience. Through exploration of music theory and history, I've discovered a whole new world of musical understanding and appreciation. It's not just about playing instruments; it's about understanding the language of music and expressing myself creatively. Stage 5 Music has shown me that with passion and dedication, anyone can find their rhythm and make beautiful music.

 

Stage 5 Music has opened my eyes to a whole new world of musical understanding and interpretation. It's not just about learning notes and melodies; it's about delving into the intricate tapestry of music theory and history to uncover hidden layers of meaning and emotion. This course has given me a deeper insight into the essence of music, allowing me to explore its complexities and nuances with a newfound appreciation. Through intensive study and exploration, I've gained a deeper understanding of the language of music and its profound impact on our lives. Stage 5 Music has not only nurtured my passion for music but has also ignited a desire to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation in my musical journey.

Continuing with our description of what is happening in music from K to 12, this week we are letting you in on what we are doing in the Senior School.

What’s happening in the Stage 6 Elective Music classes in the Senior School for Term 1? 

Stage 6 Music

Year 11 Music 2: Students will explore the Classical Period within the broader mandatory topic of Music 1600-1900. This context-based approach integrates performing, composing, and listening experiences, emphasising the exploration of musical concepts. Students will examine compositional techniques such as the Alberti Bass, Theme and Variation, and the incorporation of Thematic and Melodic Motifs in musical works. Music by Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn will be studied in depth. A comprehensive investigation of the six musical concepts will be undertaken, alongside activities to develop aural skills through sight singing and melodic dictation. Assessment includes a performance and viva voce presentation to affirm the students' understanding of the unit.

Year 12 Music 1: During this term, Music 1 students will enhance their comprehension of musical concepts by engaging in composition, performance, listening, and musicology assignments. They will receive guidance to delve deeply into analysing these concepts. Emphasis on their selected topic will prompt students to explore the possibilities and capacities of their chosen instrument as well as others relevant to their chosen subject. This focus will also foster heightened awareness in preparing performance pieces and cultivate a broader understanding and recognition of instruments across various musical genres.

Year 12 Music 2: Throughout this unit, students will engage with a diverse range of musical experiences encompassing both contemporary and traditional forms of notation. With a focus on the mandatory topic, 'Music of the Last 25 Years – Australian Focus', students will delve into advanced tonal harmony, chromatic harmony, thematic development, tone rows, a range of duration features, various structural forms including Sonata and Modified Sonata form, expansion of solo instrumental forms, manipulation of tone rows, diverse levels of instrumental and orchestral texture, introduction of new instruments in the orchestra, advancements in technology, typical and unusual combinations of instrumentation, the role of solo piano, advanced instrumental techniques, a wide array of dynamic and expressive markings encountered in scores, and novel techniques employed in contemporary music.

Year 12 Music Extension: Throughout this term the Music Extension students are continuing to embark on a journey of musical exploration and development tailored to their individual strengths. Performance Majors are refining their ensemble and solo performances, honing their skills and musical expression. Composition Majors are continuing to develop either two contrasting compositions or musical movements, furthering their exploration of composition techniques and styles. Musicology Majors are refining their analytical prowess, delving deeper into the complexities of musical works through comprehensive research. With a shared passion for music, these students are continuing to engage in rigorous study, artistic expression, and scholarly inquiry throughout the term, fostering growth and creativity in their musical endeavours.

If you have questions about curriculum or how we can support your child’s journey at Pittwater House through music, please feel free to contact me on:  david.cosentino@tphs.nsw.edu.au

Performing Arts News

HICES Music Festival (Years 5–8) and HICES Jazz Academy (Years 9–12)

The HICES Music Festival is an amazing opportunity for all students that are currently involved in our ensemble program to enrich their musical skills. Pittwater House has had students participate in the event for many years.

The HICES Music Festival is a 4 day event, which runs from Sunday 11 August and culminates in a Festival Concert at Sydney Town Hall on Wednesday 14 August. The event brings together over 400 musicians from across HICES schools in New South Wales. 

Students will work with experienced conductors and tutors at The Tops Conference Centre in Stanwell Tops.

The final performance for the Music Festival will be held at the Sydney Town Hall on Wednesday 14 August for vocal ensemble, orchestra, and concerts bands. The Jazz Academy Concert will be held on the same night at The Foundry 616.

If you are interested in this enrichment opportunity, please contact performingarts@tphs.nsw.edu.au for further information. As this is an enrichment opportunity, students must be currently involved in our ensemble program to be eligible.

Performing Arts Ensemble Canvas Page

The Performing Arts Ensembles have a dedicated Canvas Page where communications regarding rehearsals and performances are posted. It is important that students/families have access to this page to keep up to date. Invitations have been sent multiple times to families. If you do not have access to this Canvas page, please let your ensemble manager know at the next rehearsal.

Registration for 2024 Ensemble Membership

The ensembles’ structure has had some minor changes in 2024 to allow for greater inclusion and engagement throughout the entire School. We welcome current ensemble members and new members to join our 2024 Instrumental and Dance ensembles. Access the ensemble registration through the TPHS app. Parent Lounge >> Extra Curricular >> Select Your Childs Name >> Choose the Activity “Sign-Up” >> Submit to School.

Private Music Tuition 

We have a group of private tutors who are experienced teachers and achieve great results.  If you are interested in having Private Music Lessons at Pittwater House during the school day, please email fill in the private tuition form on: 

https://forms.office.com/r/GhQghpAhvs

Enrichment Opportunities 

We are looking for students to perform in our Senior School Assemblies. If your child is interested in performing, please email your child’s interest to: performingarts@tphs.nsw.edu.au